Flat-Fee Scope & Public Accountability
This entry is anonymized. Identifying details and names have been removed while preserving the factual record and chain of events.
In 2025, the client retained counsel under a $2,500 flat-fee agreement to cover two distinct tasks: (1) defense of a civil traffic citation and (2) follow-up communications with an insurer. The contract included a clause allowing a partial refund if representation ended before all services were completed, and referenced State Bar fee arbitration for disputes.
Counsel appeared for the court matter, which was resolved in the client’s favor. However, no representation was provided on the insurance issue: the aspect emphasized as most important due to prior mistreatment by an adjuster and the client’s PTSD. As a result, the client was cut off by the insurer, forced to switch carriers, and left with a false accident record.
After a written partial-refund request went unanswered, the client prepared a small-claims complaint and a State Bar fee-arbitration packet, and posted a factual consumer review documenting the gap in services. Counsel then apologized and promptly issued a $1,250 partial refund: the exact amount originally requested. The review was updated to reflect the professional resolution.
Scope & Fee Agreement
Two-Part Scope
(1) Civil traffic defense (completed and dismissed). (2) Insurance communications (not performed).
Flat-Fee Structure
$2,500 non-refundable flat fee stated “earned on receipt,” with an explicit clause for proportional refund if representation ends before all services are completed.
Dispute Mechanism
Agreement specifies the option of Arizona State Bar fee arbitration for fee disputes.
Outcome & Takeaways
The dispute resolved on the client’s original terms (half refund) after documented, good-faith escalation. No identifying information is published here. The record demonstrates:
- Value of Scope Clarity: Flat-fee agreements should delineate tasks; partial refunds can be appropriate when a discrete portion isn’t performed.
- Documentation Wins: Time-stamped letters, prepared filings, and factual reviews create leverage without exaggeration.
- Proportional Remedies: Asking only for the unperformed portion can speed resolution and avoid unnecessary conflict.
- Consumer Voice Matters: A careful, factual public review can prompt professional correction and closure.