[WSBAPT] when you don't get paid

[Diane J. Kiepe]

Hello all,

I have been struggling with the issue of not getting paid and just writing things off.  I am often willing to advance my time and I know, I know, I have no one to blame but myself.  I currently have about 4 people who owe relatively small amounts but one case that I think will owe me close to 10K when all is said and done.  I am not sure I can continue to represent the party and cannot afford to write this amount off.  It was in the context of a probate but my engagement letter clearly states the PR is responsible for the fees.  The PR is expected to inherit dirt worth substantially more than the amount owed to me but not through the probate but from the same decedent.

I’m just curious if any of you have any thoughts to share for me.  In my 17 years I have had very few no-pays but as my practice grows this problem seems to grow.  I hate to insist on a retainer because I completely understand that some families are relying on the probate/trust assets to pay.  I am really just struggling and appreciate any thoughts or directions.

Sincerely, Eeyore, I mean Diane. 😉

Diane J. Kiepe

Diane J. Kiepe
Douglas Eden
717 W. Sprague Ave.
Suite 1500
Spokane, WA  99201
djkiepe at depdslaw.com<mailto:djkiepe at depdslaw.com>
509-455-5300

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