Scope of Work
A precise description of services, tasks excluded, and deliverables to avoid scope creep and billing disputes.
A written engagement letter reduces ambiguity about representation, fee arrangements, and scope, and it documents mutual consent to the terms governing the attorney-client relationship.
Small-business owners, corporate legal departments, and individual clients commonly receive and sign engagement letters when retaining the firm.
Partner or designated attorney at the firm who defines scope, approves fee arrangements, and signs on behalf of the firm to create binding obligations and responsibilities.
An authorized signatory for the client (owner, officer, trustee, or personal client) who confirms consent, billing authorizations, and acceptance of the engagement terms.
A precise description of services, tasks excluded, and deliverables to avoid scope creep and billing disputes.
Hourly rates, flat fees, retainers, billing cycle, and expense reimbursement terms; include late-payment consequences.
Statement confirming conflict check completion and client consent to continue despite disclosed conflicts, if any.
Preferred channels, notice addresses, and consent for email or electronic delivery of privileged information.
Grounds for ending representation, required notice, and obligations on winding down the matter.
Designate the controlling jurisdiction and venue for disputes to provide certainty and predictability.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Firm first, then client; adjust for countersignatures. |
| Authentication | Email + optional SMS code or ID verification for high-risk matters. |
| Reminders | Automatic reminders at 3 and 7 days for unsigned documents. |
| Attachments | Attach conflict waivers, fee schedules, and exhibits as embedded files. |
Ensure the signing platform supports required authentication, audit trails, and export formats used by the firm.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Client retains counsel for an acquisition
Individual retains firm for wills and trusts
Date the engagement terms take effect (MM/DD/YYYY).
When initial retainer payment must be posted to trust account.
Monthly or as-agreed invoicing cadence and payment due date.
Required notice period to end representation, if any.
Dates after which records are eligible for review or destruction per retention policy.