Q: I retained a bankruptcy/foreclosure attorney to represent me. She quoted me her rates and said they were set by the state. I later talked to her assistant regarding the remaining balance of my fee, and her assistant quoted me a lower rate than what the attorney had told me. I didn't tell her the two rate quotes were different, but now I am not sure that I can trust the attorney. She has attached even more fees to my bill but does not return my calls. How can I check on this?

A: It's important to clear up the rate differences with the attorney, and if she won't return your calls, state the differences in an e-mail to her. If she does not reply to either your calls or e-mail, call your state's bar association to explain your experience. Keep a record of your contact dates, what you were told, and the amounts you've paid. Ask whether the association has a formal procedure to report a lawyer's conduct. Some large cities also have a bar association, such as Chicago, which has a Committee of Professional Responsibility to handle such matters.

Job Happiness Is Most Important

Q: I worked in a professional environment for nearly 20 years but wanted a job closer to home. I found one, but this company operates like one before employment laws existed. A man in the office violently threatened me, but when I reported it to the office manager, I was told the man was only kidding. I tried sticking it out, but the environment was so lax I felt I had to quit and take a job at a small company at which I make less. I called my original company, but there were no openings. I like the new company and the people there, but I miss the money.

A: Companies rarely rehire former employees, especially those at the top of the pay scale, but don't fret. Job enjoyment has been proved by many studies to be more important than salary. A pleasant work environment also promotes better short- and long-term health conditions for employees.

As for money, continue your job search while you work, but make sure you ask direct questions about the job duties, employees, management's philosophy and policies before you decide to accept another job. The worker who kiddingly threatened you better change his sense of humor if he takes a flight anywhere. His office manager's support will be meaningless to the airlines.

Layoffs After Mergers Are Common

Q: I was a receptionist who also provided administrative support with an Internet provider, when it was bought by another company. I was let go the first day that company took over and was told my job was redundant. Is it true that the company cannot hire someone to fill that position because I was let go for its redundancy?

A: Layoffs because of job redundancies are common as a result of mergers. The employees who usually win are the ones employed with the larger company doing the purchase. Once the company restructures its positions, it is possible that similar positions could open. Even though you've been let go, you can send the company a résumé and cover letter highlighting your knowledge and work experience.

Please send your questions to: Lindsey Novak, c/o Creators Syndicate, 5777 W. Century Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90045. E-mail her at [email protected], or visit her Web site at www.LindseyNovak.com. To find out more about Lindsey Novak and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.