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How can I get my lawyer to put pension and home appraisal details in writing?

How can I get my lawyer to put pension and home appraisal details in writing?

Full question:

I had a consultation with a lawyer she told me by law she could get me half of my husband's pension and half of whatever amount our home is appraised at. I want her to put this in writing in a contract. Could you tell me how it should read?

Category: Misc
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Pennsylvania

Answer:

We cannot give legal advice. The following is not a substitute for the advice of a local attorney. But we hope the information will be useful.

The best option for you is to enter into a "contingency agreement" with your lawyer. This means the lawyer only gets paid if she recovers money for you, receiving a percentage of what she recovers. Ask her about this type of agreement, as it is common in the legal field. She should have a form for you to review. Make sure you understand all the details and ask for examples of how the contract would work. If you have any uncertainties, ask questions until you feel comfortable. If you still feel uneasy, consider consulting another lawyer.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

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The most common complaint against a lawyer is inadequate communication. Clients often feel their attorney does not keep them informed about their case status or fails to respond to inquiries in a timely manner. Other frequent complaints include billing issues, lack of diligence, and conflicts of interest. If you have concerns about your lawyer's performance, consider discussing them directly with the attorney or seeking advice from a legal ethics board.

What is the most common reason for an attorney to be disciplined?

The most common reason for attorney discipline is misconduct, which can include neglecting a client's case, misappropriating funds, or failing to communicate effectively. Other reasons may involve conflicts of interest or criminal behavior. Each state has a bar association that oversees attorney conduct, and disciplinary actions can range from reprimands to disbarment, depending on the severity of the violation.

Do lawyers get in trouble?

Yes, lawyers can get in trouble for various reasons, including violating ethical rules, engaging in fraud, or failing to perform competently in their duties. Disciplinary actions can result from complaints filed by clients or other attorneys. Each state has its own disciplinary board that investigates claims and can impose sanctions, including suspension or disbarment.

How can I protect my pension from my ex-wife?

To protect your pension from your ex-wife during divorce, it's essential to understand how pensions are classified. In many states, pensions are considered marital property and can be subject to division. You may want to negotiate a settlement that allows you to keep your pension intact, or you could consider a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to specify how benefits will be divided. Consulting with a divorce attorney can help you explore your options.

What can lawyers get in trouble for?

Lawyers can get in trouble for a range of unethical behaviors, including misappropriating client funds, failing to represent clients competently, and breaching confidentiality. Other issues include conflicts of interest, making false statements to clients or courts, and engaging in criminal activity. Each state has rules of professional conduct that attorneys must follow, and violations can lead to disciplinary action.