Lawyer’s Fees

I want to comment on Jan Hickenbottom’s response to the question of how a homeowners association can keep its legal expenses under control (“Lawyer Should Give Board Estimate of Fee,” Condo Q&A;, July 21).

Many law firms will charge the homeowners association a monthly retainer ($150-$200) and for this monthly retainer, two board members and the property manager can have unlimited telephone access with their lawyers. If additional legal work is required, then obviously the law firm will charge its normal rate.

The retainer agreement is something which should be explored by every homeowners association.

I fully agree with Hickenbottom that the association should retain lawyers who are knowledgeable in community association law, and should have a complete understanding--in writing--as to what the law firm will charge. The law firm should bill the association on a monthly basis, giving an itemized, detailed bill.

BENNY L. KASS, Washington, D.C. Kass is a Washington lawyer and newspaper columnist specializing in real estate and tax matters.