Frequently Asked Questions: Fee Disputes

The State Bar's Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program is an informal, confidential, and lower-cost forum for resolving fee disputes between lawyers and their clients. This kind of arbitration is required for a lawyer if requested by a client. For more information or assistance, call the State Bar Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program at 415-538-2020

What is the Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program? How does the program work? What factors are considered in fee arbitration? What is the difference between binding and nonbinding arbitration? Should I agree to binding arbitration?What happens at a fee arbitration hearing?Can an attorney refuse to arbitrate a disputed fee?How do I request fee arbitration?May I ask for fee arbitration if I want a refund of fees I have already paid to an attorney? If I think an attorney has engaged in misconduct or malpractice, will fee arbitration help me?What is the deadline for requesting fee arbitration? Can my attorney require me to participate in mandatory fee arbitration? When do I receive the arbitration decision?