Is it against the law that lawyer refuses to give me a copy of my file to read it before I sign? Thank you.

Question

Is it against the law that lawyer refuses to give me a copy of my file to read it before I sign? Thank you.

Answer

I am not aware of any criminal statute requiring that an attorney provide a complete copy of the client's entire file JUST TO READ.

When a client leaves an attorney -- when the attorney dismissed with a properly-filed Notice of Dismissal -- then YES the bar rules DO require that the original client file be delivered to the client (and the attorney keeps the copy).

You've indicated there is something before you to sign, putting YOU in the proverbial driver's seat. You simply refuse to sign anything unless and until you have the opportunity to look over the portions of the file you wish to review. Simple.