In response to an ex-client's claim that he was overcharged, Duane Morris does not deny that its fees surpassed an early estimate of legal charges, but has filed counterclaims alleging breach of contract.

In an answer to complaint filed last week, Duane Morris said its former client, Edward Zaloga, agreed in 2015 that he would release the firm from any claims and allow it to withdraw as counsel, as long as the firm waived outstanding fees of more than $300,000.

“The settlement agreement was a 'walk away'—Duane Morris kept what it had been paid and the Zalogas did not have to pay any more,” the filing said.