Asked by user in Pennsylvania. Answered by Enjuris Editors.
A retainer is an amount of money paid upfront to secure the services of an attorney. The most common type of retainer is a "retaining fee." A retaining fee must be deposited into a trust account to draw from as work is completed. If there's money left in the trust account when the attorney-client relationship is terminated, the attorney must return the leftover money within a reasonable amount of time.
Without reviewing your attorney-client agreement or knowing more about your case, I can't tell you why it's taking so long for you to get your retainer back. I would recommend contacting your attorney (send a letter via certified mail with return receipt requested so you have proof of delivery). If you can't resolve the issue, contact the Pennsylvania State Bar Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel.