Hired this attorney for a High conflict custody/child support case. Her rate was more than reasonable compared to other attorneys on the market and she even agreed to do a flat fee for the entire case. But once the agreement was signed and retainer deposited she became unavailable and unresponsive to calls, emails, text messages and court filings.
I expressed that I would like my rights protected as a parent and Ms. McLean explained that she "doesn't do all of that". She stated that she will only show up for scheduled hearings and had no interest in filing anything (opposition, evidence, interrogatories, depositions, etc).
She seemed to be very compassionate, understanding and extremely professional during my initial consultation. She brought her adorable son to our consultation meeting and spent more time calming him than giving me advice. She expressed that she was going through a separation with her child's father and he was not supporting them financially so daycare was not an option for her at the moment. I totally understood this as a parent going through my own separation and trying to rebuild. At the same time I also understand how draining that this process can be and I realized that Ms. McLean was distracted and incapable of looking out for my best interest. She acknowledged this fact before terminating her services days away my hearing. I was really bummed out and worried especially since she didnt offer a referral in her place. It worked out for the best because I was able to find an attorney who actually has experience with family law and provided me with dozens of successful cases of theirs to prove it.
Ms. McLean did not show up to a single hearing nor file anything other than her intent to represent but she refused to refund me ANY of the money that I paid her?? I've sent her text messages, emails, and left voicemails about this since 2018 with no response. I am totally understanding if she is having issues of her own but I don't think is fair for me at all. And the last thing I'm thinking about is taking someone to court while I'm going to court already.
Please, do your due diligence 1st before you hire. Don't let the low price, vulnerable emotions, promises lead you to make an impulsive decision that you will regret. read more