STUART N. BORNSTEIN and GRANADA, LLC v. IRA A. MARCUS and IRA MARCUS, P.A.

**Former Employee Loses Fight Over Legal Fees** This case involved a dispute between Stuart Bornstein, a former employee, and the law firm Ira Marcus, P.A., over money from a legal settlement. Bornstein had worked with the firm on a case and believed he was entitled to a larger share of the attorney's fees after the case settled. He also wanted the firm to return a $50,000 retainer fee he had paid. The court ruled in favor of the law firm. The judges found that a later agreement between the parties clearly allowed the firm to keep $450,000 in attorney's fees from the settlement and did not require them to refund Bornstein's $50,000 retainer. The court determined there was no breach of contract because the firm followed the terms of their written agreement. This case highlights the importance of carefully reviewing any contracts or agreements you sign with employers, especially regarding fee arrangements or profit-sharing. When disputes arise over money or contract terms, courts will closely examine the specific language in written agreements. Workers should understand that later agreements can modify earlier ones, potentially changing their financial rights. Always seek clarification on contract terms before signing.