GRETNA – A pair of New Orleans attorneys are suing an auto insurer claiming they were never paid for legal services provided to a pair of shared clients who later removed them from the legal proceedings.
Patrick G. Kehoe Jr. and Anthony J. Engolia III filed suit against Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company in the 24th Judicial District Court on Aug. 12.
Kehoe and Engolia claim they entered into an agreement to split the legal fees borne out of an automobile accident lawsuit involving their clients John and Matthew Calamusa. The plaintiffs allege, at their own expense, they performed legal services on behalf of the Calamusas in connection with the accident and assisted them in obtaining medical care, statements and other relative documents. Kehoe and Engolia assert they made an agreement with the Calamusas that any fees expended on their behalf by the lawyers would be reimbursed upon a settlement or judgment in the case.
On Aug. 14, 2013 the plaintiffs contend the Calamusas verbally notified them that they were discharged as their representatives in the lawsuit. Kehoe and Engolia allege they notified Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company and the Calamusas that any settlement or payment should be shared with them to recover legal fees and related costs. However, the plaintiffs assert they have not yet received any payment for their services.
The defendant is accused of breach of contract.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for payment of attorney’s fees, all costs, expenses, guarantees and other sums.
Kehoe and Engolia are represented by Patrick G. Kehoe Jr.
The case has been assigned to Division C Judge June Berry Darensburg.
Case no. 741-200.
Attorneys sue auto insurer seeking fees after being dismissed from case by clients
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