Seeking advice - Having difficulty with my orthodontist

I discovered tonight that my retainer is broken. I just replaced it last year after I discovered the last one broke. That one was just under 2 years old and I don't think this one has even reached six months.

I have had and replaced retainers for 14 years. I know how to take care of them and it's especially important due to the specific alignment of my teeth. Obviously the lab this orthodontist gets their retainers from is low quality (they are the thinnest retainers I've ever had) but I need a replacement before I find another orthodontist. The first replacement was a long and drawn out process because they kept telling me the lab wouldn't work with my previous mold, even though I had been told otherwise when it was first made (they said since its digital it can be printed for replacements, but when I needed it, the cutoff was 6 weeks). I'm really upset because this clinic seemed like a gem after I had back to back horrifying experiences with other places (including but not limited to an orthodontist hammering a too-small retainer onto my teeth with the handle of a tool while I screamed and tried to physically stop him, causing my top teeth to be painfully tingly for a few days. The other stories are posts of their own)

I need advice on what is reasonable to ask. I really hate going Karen mode but is suggesting a free replacement appropriate here? At what point do I get a lawyer? Is it worth it to call one up? My teeth have shifted since I started going to this place and I'm worried about it all leading to me having to get braces again due to my messed up alignment, which like...who can drop 8000 dollars these days?? I have university insurance but it doesn't cover ortho.

I appreciate any advice!! Also suggestions on good places to get an Essex retainer...