Christian Russell Franz

I hired Chris based on a long-standing family connection and decades of history with my family on Bainbridge Island. I trusted that relationship, and that trust was a mistake. What should have been a straightforward parenting plan turned into a four-year ordeal costing tens of thousands of dollars.... I was repeatedly told that each new charge would be the “final” bill, only to receive additional invoices. After trial, I was charged over $10,000 for “final documents” to be drafted. Through emails he sent to opposing counsel, I later learned that he frequently blamed me for delays in the case. At one point, he told me to “watch my mouth,” as he withdrew on the day of court, costing me an additional $4,200 in fees. Hours of prep I did for him and emails and documents I paid for - down the drain for him to show up unprepared. That is not effective legal advocacy; it is a failure of professional responsibility. In my opinion that is cowardly behavior and astonishingly cruel. After seeking new representation, I learned not only that many mistakes were made by him but also that my experience was not unique. He has a reputation island wide. If this is how a long-time family friend is treated, I strongly caution anyone considering hiring him. This experience caused significant financial and emotional stress, and I would not recommend his services to anyone. Save yourself the time, money, and hardship and look elsewhere for representation.