I had a simple matter which David Klemm got partially resolved in my favor. It was an easy dispute but I needed it handled professionally, as I did not know the process. He asked for $1500 retainer, in case there was future issues that he may have to handle, so I gave it to him. He responded to the IRS with a one page (1/2 front 1/2 back) and then sent me a bill for >$1711 stating I owed him the additional $211 !!! The bill was not detailed but included a lot of unsubstantiated charges. He charged me for reviewing unrelated paperwork - even though I asked him not to. He charged me for a 1 min call (who knows how much - again not itemized)- of which I simply called and asked for a copy of what was sent to IRS (I did not get it) , and phone call charges for what was suppose to be a "free consultation" by phone initially. I also asked to see of copy of the submit before he sends to IRS - he did not. Being an Executive myself - i would have liked to have input. When I argued the bill - he agreed to credit me back ~$400 (leaving a $200 credit on my retainer). When I later decided not to use him further, he refused to send me the balance. I am not sure if he does good work or not as I had a very easy case - but I would say be very careful with your retainer. It will likely get eaten regardless of effort. Needless to say, my accountant got an earful from me, for recommending him.

I had a simple matter which David Klemm got partially resolved in my favor. It was an easy dispute but I needed it handled professionally, as I did not know the process. He asked for $1500 retainer, in case there was future issues that he may have to handle, so I gave it to him. He responded to the IRS with a one page (1/2 front 1/2 back) and then sent me a bill for >$1711 stating I owed him the additional $211 !!! The bill was not detailed but included a lot of unsubstantiated charges. He charged me for reviewing unrelated paperwork - even though I asked him not to. He charged me for a 1 min call (who knows how much - again not itemized)- of which I simply called and asked for a copy of what was sent to IRS (I did not get it) , and phone call charges for what was suppose to be a "free consultation" by phone initially. I also asked to see of copy of the submit before he sends to IRS - he did not. Being an Executive myself - i would have liked to have input. When I argued the bill - he agreed to credit me back ~$400 (leaving a $200 credit on my retainer). When I later decided not to use him further, he refused to send me the balance. I am not sure if he does good work or not as I had a very easy case - but I would say be very careful with your retainer. It will likely get eaten regardless of effort. Needless to say, my accountant got an earful from me, for recommending him.

I had a simple matter which David Klemm got partially resolved in my favor. It was an easy dispute but I needed it handled professionally, as I did not know the process. He asked for $1500 retainer, in case there was future issues that he may have to handle, so I gave it to him. He responded to the IRS with a one page (1/2 front 1/2 back) and then sent me a bill for >$1711 stating I owed him the additional $211 !!! The bill was not detailed but included a lot of unsubstantiated charges. He charged me for reviewing unrelated paperwork - even though I asked him not to. He charged me for a 1 min call (who knows how much - again not itemized)- of which I simply called and asked for a copy of what was sent to IRS (I did not get it) , and phone call charges for what was suppose to be a "free consultation" by phone initially. I also asked to see of copy of the submit before he sends to IRS - he did not. Being an Executive myself - i would have liked to have input. When I argued the bill - he agreed to credit me back ~$400 (leaving a $200 credit on my retainer). When I later decided not to use him further, he refused to send me the balance. I am not sure if he does good work or not as I had a very easy case - but I would say be very careful with your retainer. It will likely get eaten regardless of effort. Needless to say, my accountant got an earful from me, for recommending him.