9th Cir.;
14-17045

The court of appeals affirmed a district court judgment. The court held that a state court's determination of a law firm's reasonable fee for pre-petition services was binding on the bankruptcy court.

The law firm of Spiller McProud undertook extensive litigation for Charles Siller on a contingent fee basis. When Siller prevailed in the underlying litigation, Spiller McProud sought payment. Siller refused. The law firm's claims were ultimately decided by an arbitrator, who concluded that Spiller owed the firm just under $2.5 million. The California Superior Court confirmed that award and entered judgment accordingly. Siller filed for bankruptcy.