[ct] Urgent: I’ve Had An Ongoing Custody Case For 3 Years Now. I Recently Hired A Flat-fee Lawyer After Letting My Previous Attorney Go, But This Lawyer Has Proven To Be Incompetent And Unresponsive To The Seriousness Of My Case. Am I Legally Entitled To A Refund So I Can Hire New Representation?

Hi all, I need urgent advice. I have a custody hearing in 3 days and am in a tough spot. My son’s father (ex-husband) has a history of severe substance abuse, felony drug charges, alcoholism, and significant mental health issues (schizoaffective disorder w/ mania and psychosis). He currently has supervised visitation (4 hrs/week) at my parent’s home due to documented neglectful and unfit parenting.

I hired a flat-fee lawyer ($10k) after letting my previous attorney go due to cost, but she’s been completely incompetent—delayed filings, poor communication, and barely any work done (maybe 2 hours total). I’ve asked for a meeting to discuss my concerns and received no response. Now, I’m considering alternative representation but can’t afford it unless I get a refund.

My ex recently moved to CT with his girlfriend, (he has multiple felony drug convictions in the past, was arrested for ‘communicating threats’ when he threatened to kill his ex, who then got a restraining order against him. Then there is his current girlfriend who he lives with, who has a pretty big laundry list of violent offenses (A&B, violating DV restraining orders, assault with a deadly weapon on person over 65, extortion, etc.). 1. Can I request a continuance at Thursday’s hearing to find new counsel and prepare properly for trial in January? 2. Am I entitled to a close to full refund from my lawyer given how little she’s done? 3. Can I subpoena my ex’s mother (in MA) to testify virtually? Her testimony would be critical, as she has admitted damning information and rarely sees my son. She also is severely mentally ill and doesn’t leave her home and has never worked a day in her life.

I’m feeling lost, out of money, and physically unwell (stomach bug, flu, and chronic health issues). I’m trying to protect my well-adjusted 5-year-old, who deserves safety and stability. Any advice on how to proceed would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!!