Can a lawyer refuse to hand over client files until they are fully paid?

Question

I had hired a lawyer to my asylum case one year before. However my interview still not proceed due to interrupter errors. But I realized that lawyer has not excrescence in asylum criteria. Therefore I have changed the lawyer to well experienced lawyer but my previous lawyer is holding some of my evidence and certification document until I pay full amount of money that he has mentioned time to time .I have already paid 1200 euros and now he is telling me to pay another 850 euros include tax. But I've not signed any agreement with him by promising that kind of amount. So right now I’m going to start my Ausbildung from next month on therefore i need my certification. My question is "A lawyer can refuse to hand over client files until they are fully paid ??.

Answer 1

Dear @Presly, 

Welcome back to the Wefugees Community and thank you for reaching out to us again. 

I’m not a lawyer, but I tried to make some research. I read that, in general, lawyers have to hand out the file including all of your documents. However, if the bill is not fully paid yet, they might be allowed to hold them back for the time being. I would highly recommend to discuss this with your new lawyer - I am sure he/she can help to clarify here (also regarding the total amount your old lawyer requests). Good luck and please don’t hesitate to get back to us with any further questions. 

All the best, 

Meike

Comments

Dear. Mr, Meike really appreciate your quick response to my question.After I wrote to my lawyer “She has request a invoice from my old lawyer.