GALVESTON — An attorney in Friendswood has filed a breach of contract claim against a former client who allegedly failed to pay him nearly $5,000 for representation in a divorce case.
David L. Thornton filed a complaint July 26 in Galveston County District Court against Benjamin F. Smith alleging breach of contract and other claims.
According to the complaint, Smith hired Thornton as his legal counsel in a divorce case. Thornton claims Smith agreed to a standard hourly rate and that he provided professional, legal services to Smith according to their oral contract. He alleges that despite submitting his bill for legal services, Smith has ignored and refused to make any payments.
Thornton claims the legal services he rendered were necessary and the fees charges were reasonable with an outstanding balance of $4,905. He alleges Smith accepted the legal services he provided in his divorce case and that Smith knew or should have known he would be expected to compensate him for his services.
Thornton seeks monetary relief of less than $50,000, interest and all other just relief.
Galveston County District Court case number CV-0090410