Hello everyone,
I’m in a bit of a bind and could really use some advice. Earlier today, at 11 am, my attorney informed me that he had to withdraw from my case due to a conflict of interest. He explained that he had accidentally consulted with my ex-wife’s husband on a separate legal matter two weeks ago. My ex-wife’s husband is a third party in my case, and my attorney only recognized this when reviewing exhibits submitted by my ex-wife.
My hearing was scheduled for 1:30 pm, and my attorney was confident that the magistrate would grant a continuance. I went to his office for a Zoom session, but the magistrate denied the continuance, and my attorney left the room, leaving me to defend myself. As I was walking out, the receptionist asked me to sign a consent form for his withdrawal. I refused and walked out.
Unfortunately, I lost the case. My attorney later called and informed me that he would refund all my legal fees. However, I now have to pay my ex-wife’s legal fees, and I was at a tremendous disadvantage during the hearing. Am I being unreasonable to think that maybe he should also cover her legal fees? I feel like his actions have significantly damaged my case, and I am far from being made whole if I’m paying her legal fees.
To add to my stress, I filed a supplemental petition to modify a parenting plan, and the final hearing for that is upcoming. I still need to retain another lawyer, and my case now feels like an uphill battle.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you 