Chad Dawson Elrod

I entered into a contract with Jackson & Elrod LLP (the "Firm") in November 2013, in reference to gaining legal assistance with my mortgage, which had been exposed for fraudulent activity. At the time, the firm stated they could assist me in working with the lender, and modifying my mortgage to a man...ageable rate. The firm is based out of TX where I am from IL. The firm is not licensed in IL, although, continued to give me legal advice(find out later this is illegal). The first retainer fee of $5,950 was paid to the firm on 12/22/13. The agreement was to pay the firm a $1,500/mo retainer fee during the litigation and mitigation process. At the time I retained the firm, I was up to date on my mortgage payments. Following an audit of my mortgage in Jan-Feb ‘14, I spoke with a subject from the firm, who identified himself as Chad Elrod. I raised the idea of no longer paying my mortgage, as the audit stated I technically did not owe the current mortgage company anything, nor could they foreclose on me. Elrod agreed with this decision. I continued making my monthly payments to the firm. After nearly 60 days of no contact with the firm, I called to get an update of how the case was going. It took 3 calls for someone to call me back. Eventually, I spoke with Mr. Elrod. Elrod stated to be patient, as it takes time for these cases to be figured out. In May ‘14, I again contacted the firm. I requested a statement of where my money is being spent. The firm could not provide me with an accurate document to show this. Elrod admitted that my case "slipped through the cracks", although, Elrod stated he would make it right. Elrod then stated he would suspend the payment until further notice, due to confusion by both parties. In July ‘14, money was attempted to be deducted from my account without notice. Elrod and I had many conversations, none of which concluded anything, as to why he needed more of my money. Elrod stated, for the sake of confusion, again, to charge me $750.00 in August and then resume $1500.00 monthly payments. At this time, local counsel (licensed in Illinois) was assigned to me after 8 months. Local counsel could not produce a case relevant to my county after 4 months. After paying $15,750 to Jackson & Elrod LLP, I enter into foreclosure next month, and hope it is not too late to save my house. Elrod offered a refund of $2000.00 and advised it was "not open to negotiation". I literally have nothing to show for $16,000.00, and I'm sent and offer in exchange for my signature to release Jackson & Elrod LLP from any lawsuit. Being a military veteran, and witnessing many veterans get taken advantage of over the years, I never thought it would happen to me. Thank you and God Bless.