You need to review your contract with the attorney and contact the New York State Bar. Every state is different but generally speaking lawyers can take out the itemized fees for their expenses in different parts of the representation.  This could simply be the case here but you need to find out a few things first.  First, review your contract. Next, ask for an itemized bill and when certain monies were taken out.  Third, contact the state bar and find out if he has a disciplinary record.  If things are still not looking up, file a complaint with the New York State Bar against him and consider hiring new counsel to finish up your case.