ComplaintsforThe Cowlitz Law Group, PLLC

• Initial Complaint

  02/20/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  We talked to ********************* Attorney in this matter if he could help us in ****************. This was on a Friday. He said he would but would need us to make a huge deposit and we could only make payments and used a credit card. Because we have had problems with attorneys before and sometimes they dont work and expect high pay for an hours worth of work. It was a Friday and we stated it had to be in by next Thursday. He affirmed he would have it done. Then the next Monday he sent out a letter and stated he could not do the work in the time we provided. We explained he stated he said he could. It became a phone argument. Called me a white a****** and was going to charge me for the phone call he made. So they sent a check for 800 out and we refused it. If we cashed it, that would mean we accepted the payment. So we dont. They called today and asked if we received the check. I asked for what? He said for the refund. I said no, we dont accept it and we want full refund. They refused. That is why I dont do business with people who are from different countries. This man already has complaints to the Bar about his ways and he has been suspended for providing false information on his education to the Bar

  Business response

  02/20/2024

  Dear **** and ***********************,
  
  We appreciate the opportunity to address the concerns raised in your review. At The Cowlitz Law Group, our commitment to professional conduct, integrity, and the principles of justice and equality is unwavering. Our team is composed of individuals who have not only held significant roles in ethics and diversity panels but have also been recognized for their contributions to the legal community and society at large.
  
  Our firm is deeply rooted in the values of diversity and inclusivity, with members actively involved in promoting these principles within the legal field and beyond. This commitment is reflected in our work and the recognitions received for our efforts in advancing a more equitable legal environment.
  
  Given the stringent ethical standards we adhere to and our proactive approach to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace, the claim made in your review about inappropriate language being used is entirely inconsistent with our firm's practices and culture. We employ the latest technology to ensure transparency and accountability in all our interactions, which allows us to confidently refute such allegations.
  
  The suggestion that any member of our firm would engage in the behavior described is not only unfounded but deeply offensive to us. We take pride in our dedication to upholding the integrity of the law and ensuring respectful treatment of all individuals, regardless of their background.
  
  We regret any misunderstanding or inconvenience you may have experienced and are keen to resolve any outstanding issues. We invite you to contact us directly to discuss this matter further, as we are committed to ensuring a fair and satisfactory resolution for all parties involved.

• Initial Complaint

  05/30/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  This is the correspondence the ** bar association received. *************** investigators, I will be filing a second grievance against ********************* to copy the bills in this matter. This relationship with this firm has been inappropriate from the start. I sent my initial documents for my case to Cowlitz law on March 12th at ****pm, which were my interrogatories and my six paystubs requested by opposing party due March 28, 2023. My interrogatories were filed late past the deadline. To make the matter worse, the "firm" submitted my declaration single spaced, of which the requirement is double spaced. Every conversation with ********************* ended with what I owe him or about my trust balance. The paralegal ***** had me in contact with initially was in ******* and even called me at midnight trying to work on my responses and declarations that were "due the next day". My two retainers, payments of $1500.00 and a payment made of $469.85 on May 9, 2023 totaling $3469.85 that covers the amounts owed to this firm. I'm still getting harassed for funds and a simple accounting of the funds received would show them that I don't owe the balance they are requesting. After every call with *****, He asserts that work has been done and he tries to justify his work saying he worked with a paralegal. If ***** is qualified to do his job and is professional and as he claims, then the mistakes would not have been made on my case. This was a absolutely horrible experience and occurred at the worst time ever with my present disabilities, of which, my lawyer never addressed with me. He was ok with the prolonging of the case so he could gain income from it in billing me. I have all the correspondence and billing in this case available upon request from any investigator. The 2nd retainer my brother (***************************) sent to ***** was never acknowledged, nor has there been any accurate account of the funds given.

  Business response

  06/11/2023

  Thank you for your communication and for voicing your concerns. At Cowlitz Law Group, we highly value client feedback as it offers us an opportunity to assess and improve our services.
  
  We want to emphasize that, due to attorney-client privilege, we are unable to discuss or disclose specific details related to your case on this platform. Nevertheless, we want to assure you that we have maintained comprehensive records of all correspondences, documentation, and billing associated with your case. 
  
  Furthermore, we are fully cooperating with the ************************** in their investigation into your grievances.
  Regarding your concerns about our billing, we want to reaffirm that our billing practices are in strict compliance with the guidelines and regulations set by the Washington ********************** The invoices you have attached to your complaint clearly detail the services rendered, the associated costs, and the time spent on each aspect of your case. All invoices have been duly recorded and communicated to you periodically.
  
  We understand that the outcome of legal matters can sometimes be unexpected and may not align with a client's initial expectations. It is essential to remember that while we strive to provide the best possible representation, the outcome of legal proceedings can never be guaranteed.
  
  We regret that your experience with our firm did not meet your expectations. We are committed to resolving these concerns to your satisfaction. While the ************************** investigates this matter, we will provide full cooperation and transparency. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this process.

  Customer response

  06/11/2023

   
  Complaint: 20122428
  
  I am rejecting this response because: the response was generated generically and is not sincere and offers no resolution. The only resolution I will accept is a full refund because no creditable services were rendered. This was the worse attorney client experience anyone could have gone through.

  Also, a quick accounting action from ********************* would show that I don't owe any additional funds. ********************* is a fraud pretending to be a lawyer and public servant. His only concern is getting paid. It's law school 101 to know that declarations are double spaced. Just that incompetence speaks volumes of the issues. 

  ********************* won't even acknowledge the 2nd $1500 retainer given to him from my brother on my behalf. I'll send the receipt here so that he can read it finally. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *******************************

  Business response

  06/23/2023

  Dear ******************,
  
  We value your feedback and understand your concerns. Our financial operations are rigorous, with an in-house accounting department maintaining daily records and an audit department that reviews these ledgers at the end of each day. To bolster this, an independent third-party accountant also scrutinizes our accountancy to assure error-free processes. We regret any misunderstanding from our earlier communication.
  
  After a thorough examination of your case, we are unable to issue a refund. Our billing procedures strictly follow guidelines from the Washington State Bar and the Rules of Professional Conduct for Lawyers. Each invoice clearly details services, costs, and time, all meticulously confirmed for accuracy by our audit team.
  
  Although attorney-client privilege prevents us from discussing specifics here, rest assured all your case-related records have been responsibly maintained, adhering to professional and legal standards.
  
  We wish you the best of success in your future endeavors.

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