Lawyers for former Westfield State University President Evan Dobelle, who is suing state education officials, cite an "irreconcilable difference" and a failure to pay bills, in their effort to drop him as a client.
Dobelle served as university president from January 2008 until his resignation in November 2013 amid questions about what some people called extravagant spending on travel, restaurant meals and other services.
In motions filed in federal court this week, several of his lawyers sought to withdraw from the case.
Dobelle, while not commenting on his lawyers' motions, said via email that the school is obligated to pay his legal fees.
Dobelle's lawsuit alleges violations of Dobelle's constitutional and contractual rights. He has said his spending was necessary to promote the university.
No trial date has been set.
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