A US law firm has launched a civil suit against Anglo Irish Bank claiming it failed to pay over $150,000 in legal fees.

Withers Bergman says Anglo engaged its services when seeking advice on Connecticut law for a "multi-billion dollar" trust and commercial lending transaction. Two attorneys charged an hourly rate of $825 (€548) and $625 (€416) each. When Anglo disputed Withers Bergman's invoices, the billing rates were cut. However, since finishing the work in February, Anglo has failed to pay a bill of just over $153,500 (€102,100), it is alleged.

Withers Bergman recently lodged the complaint with the Superior Court in Connecticut and is awaiting a response from Anglo. A spokesperson for Anglo declined to comment.