"Davidoff Hutcher & Citron v Stephen K. Bannon" - Soul-Crushing Experience of Getting Stiffed

 Law firm Davidoff Hutcher & Citron partner Robert Costello had represented Donald Trump ally Stephen K. Bannon in several legal actions. One of them concerned the Congressional subpoena Bannon had ignored. It related to the January 6, 2021 insurrection in the Capitol. Bannon lost the case and had been sentenced to four months. That's on hold while he appeals.

The gallows humor on that could be: According to Bannon's understanding of justice if the case is lost you don't have to pony up payment to the lawyers. 

Well, the Davidoff firm is not laughing. In the collections lawsuit "Davidoff Hutcher & Citron v Stephen K. Bannon" it contends that the defendant did not fully pay for the services rendered. The number in the complaint is $480,000. Here is a copy of the litigation.

When a client attempts to stiff those of us in professional services the experience can be soul-withering. The tasks involved are usually complex. And, along the way, we frequently do lots of hand-holding with the client. You bet, we feel we earned that money.

Sometimes with enough nudges eventually payment will come. Most recently after that happened, I terminated the communications client. I had done handstands and backflips complying with the specs, including the deadline. The client was pleased. But no responses to the invoices for months. 

In an earlier billing, because collection agencies take up to 40% commission, I waited before turning it over to one. The client, despite the threats from the agency, did not pay. Then I presented my story on social media. I talked like a lawyer (although I am not one.) That day the client did transmit the funds to the agency. But, yes, I did have to pay the 40% commission.

Let's wish Mr. Costello success in this alleged sad situation.

Meanwhile in my coaching practice I advise clients to line up as much of a down payment as possible before eagerly starting the work. For long-term projects there should be periodic collections.

Intuitive career coaching about your present and your next. Shut down the noise from that committee in your head and open to possibility.  In addition, Jane Genova is an award-winning writer on Human Resources issues.

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