Can a lawyer force you to pay if he never discussed fees and if you never gave him authorization to work on your behalf?

Chicago, IL Viewed 15 times. Posted about 1 month ago in Ethics / Professional Responsibility
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I had a consultation with a lawyer, and fees were never discussed, I never signed anything, nor did I give him any permission to work on my behalf. He made multiple lengthy phone calls to other professionals (ones he referred me to) and charged me for it. Can he legally force me to pay these charges?
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We never once talked about fees. He sent me one bill over 2 years ago, with just the total on it. I thought it might be a mistake, since when would an hour and a half "free" consultation cost more than $1000? I am actually being summoned to court because of lack of payment.
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Answers (2)

Elizabeth S Conan

Elizabeth S Conan

Contributor Level 4
This attorney is licensed in Florida. Posted about 1 month ago. Flag as objectionable
Did you respond to an advertisement for a free consultation? It sounds like you need to contact the attorney and ask him to clarify the basis of his charges, if you never gave him authority to do any work on your behalf nor signed any fee agreement. It sounds like a misunderstanding.
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Jonathan H Levy

Jonathan H Levy Avvo Pro

Contributor Level 9
This attorney is licensed in California and 1 other state. Posted about 1 month ago. Flag as objectionable
Consultations are usually free unless fees are discussed at some point. However, I can't tell what actually happened, so my colleague's advice is sound, ask the lawyer to explain the fee. He may just drop it.
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