Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/03/2023

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Down Payment paid in December 2022 ($250.00). Initial Consultation fee was $250.00 and would be a credit if I moved forward with the attorney.Half of the total contract price upfront payment paid in February $1,250. Total Payments made $1,500.00.The Law firm committed to provide me with council and representation for a citizen (naturalization) application.The lawyer was misleading and deceptive with the total cost of the contract. At the consultation we discussed my case, why was I looking for a lawyer, I explained to her that I have a unique background and needed the help since I do not know much about the process, that same day I submitted a full background paperwork from DSHS (a government agency) regarding my case and later (Jan2023) an *** fingerprint background check and MA ****. She then explained the application process and what I would need to do, if I hired her. I agreed and later signed a contract. On that same day she told me the cost/price $2,500.00 for the case.She waited until I made half of the ($2,500) contract price $1,250 in February and then let me know my case would cost more to represent me. She had done no work on my case or application up to that point. I had to reach out to her assistant to find out what to do next, multiple times.I told her, I did not want to move forward with her firm, she told me that all the work she had done totaled $1,500.00, the amount I paid. The work she did was only one item from the contract. There are about eight items listed on the contract not completed. I feel like she would have kept raising the price, especially if we submitted the application to USCIS. I would have to pay whatever the cost she changes it to.I did all the work on the invoice; I do not believe her explanation of the work she did amounts to $1,500. She requested details of my cases from court record department, something a lawyer's would do at a lower cost if that is all I needed. (Naturalization - *************************** Invoice #: *****)

  

  Business Response

  Date: 04/16/2023

  It is my immense pleasure to serve all of my clients with dignity, compassion, and transparency. These values are reflected in every contract entered into with my clients. All the contracts for my business contain provisions that address additional work that is the result of the failure to correctly disclose facts related to the case. There is also a provision that discusses termination of the attorney-client working relationship and how a refund, if any, would be assessed. The hourly rates for myself and my staff are clearly stated in the contract, and consistent with industry standards. No person is required to enter into these contracts if they do not feel that the fees are fair. Each client is provided with an opportunity to review the contract,in full, and it is either provided in their own language or it is reviewed thoroughly with an interpreter. A full accounting at termination is provided to ensure transparency and consistency with the provisions of the contract. I am always happy to personally respond to clients who have concerns or questions regarding their contract or their bill.