We paid a flat fee as a few day trial but trial never did take place. When we asked for a refund, our laywer said that she did not owe us a refund because of the hours that she worked. Is it ethical for a lawyer to charge a flat fee and then charge an hourly rate?

The rules of professional conduct prohibit an attorney from charging a fee that is unreasonable relative to the work performed. consider filing a complaint with your state bar.