Legal Client Intake Documents

Legal Client Intake Documents

This Engagement Agreement and Client Intake Record (the "Agreement") is entered into as of Effective Date: by and between Law Firm Name: with principal office at Law Firm Address: (hereinafter "Firm"), and Client Name: of Client Address: (hereinafter "Client"). The Firm and Client may be referred to individually as a "Party" and collectively as the "Parties."

Recitals

WHEREAS, Client seeks legal representation and advice concerning Matter Description: and any related matters; and

WHEREAS, Firm is willing to provide legal services to Client on the terms set forth in this Agreement, having disclosed conflicts and qualifications as required by law; and

WHEREAS, the Parties desire to document the terms of engagement, billing, confidentiality, and other administrative matters to govern the attorney-client relationship.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth below, the Parties agree as follows:

1. Engagement; Scope of Services

1.1 Engagement. Client engages Firm to provide legal services reasonably necessary in connection with the matter described above (the "Services"). Services may include legal advice, drafting of documents, representation in negotiations, and court or administrative proceedings as specifically authorized in writing by Client.

1.2 Scope Limitations. Services do not include tax advice, expert witness fees, mediation/arbitration unless expressly agreed, or other services outside the Matter Description without a separate written agreement. Any change in scope shall be documented in writing and signed by both Parties.

2. Client Intake Information

Driver's license or state ID    Passport    Other:

3. Fees, Billing, and Retainer

3.1 Fees. Firm will bill Client at the hourly rates set forth below for attorneys and staff working on the matter. Attorney Hourly Rate: Paralegal Hourly Rate: . Rates are subject to periodic adjustment upon written notice.

3.2 Retainer. Client shall deliver an initial retainer in the amount of $ to be deposited into Firm's client trust account. The retainer will be applied against fees and costs in accordance with applicable ethical rules. Unused retainer balances will be returned to Client following final accounting and termination of representation.

3.3 Billing and Payment. Firm will render invoices monthly or as otherwise agreed. Payment is due within 30 days of invoice. Overdue balances may accrue interest at a rate of and Client shall be responsible for collection costs and reasonable attorneys' fees to the extent permitted by law.

Check    Credit/Debit Card    Wire Transfer

4. Confidentiality and Attorney-Client Privilege

4.1 Confidentiality. All communications between Client and Firm concerning the matter are protected by the attorney-client privilege and will be treated as confidential. Firm may disclose confidential information only as authorized by Client or as permitted or required by law, including to the extent necessary to prevent reasonably certain death or substantial bodily harm, or to comply with court order.

4.2 Use of Information. Client authorizes Firm to use Client information for the purpose of representation, accounting, and customary firm administration, provided that such use does not waive privilege or reasonable expectations of confidentiality.

5. Conflicts of Interest; Withdrawal

5.1 Conflicts. Firm has conducted a conflicts check based on the information provided. Client represents that Client has disclosed all known parties, entities, and interests related to the matter. If a conflict arises that materially impairs Firm's ability to represent Client, Firm will notify Client and may withdraw if required or permitted by applicable rules.

5.2 Withdrawal. Firm may withdraw for good cause, including nonpayment of fees, Client's refusal to follow lawful advice, or if continued representation would violate professional rules. Upon withdrawal, Firm will take reasonable steps to protect Client's interests, including surrendering papers and property and refunding any unearned retainer.

6. Records; File Retention

Firm will maintain the client file in accordance with its retention policy and applicable ethical obligations. Client may request a copy of the file; Firm may charge reasonable copying and delivery fees. Upon termination, Firm may retain original documents to the extent permitted by law and will return Client funds held in trust after final accounting.

7. Notices

Notices under this Agreement shall be in writing and delivered to the addresses below. Notice shall be effective upon personal delivery, next business day if delivered by overnight courier, or three business days after deposit in the U.S. mail.

8. Termination

Either Party may terminate this Agreement upon written notice to the other. Termination will not affect Firm's right to payment for services rendered and costs incurred prior to termination. Firm will provide a final invoice and account for trust funds within a reasonable time.

9. Dispute Resolution

Any dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement, including fee disputes, shall be resolved first by good faith negotiation. If unresolved, the Parties agree to submit fee disputes to binding arbitration only if both Parties consent in writing at the time of the dispute, otherwise either Party may pursue claims in a court of competent jurisdiction as provided in Section 12 (Governing Law).

10. Governing Law; Venue

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of: without regard to its conflict of laws principles. Venue for any litigation shall lie in the courts located in County: .

11. Entire Agreement; Amendments; Severability; Waiver; Counterparts

11.1 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with any engagement letter, retainer schedule, and any appended schedules, constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether written or oral.

11.2 Amendments and Waiver. No amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement will be effective unless in writing and signed by both Parties. A waiver of any breach shall not constitute a waiver of any other term or subsequent breach.

11.3 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect, and the Parties shall negotiate in good faith to replace the invalid provision with a valid provision that most closely effects the Parties' original intent.

11.4 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Signatures transmitted by electronic means shall be deemed originals for all purposes.

12. Client Certifications and Authorizations

Client certifies that the information provided in this intake form is true and correct to the best of Client's knowledge. Client authorizes Firm to obtain background information, public records, and other information reasonably necessary to represent Client, including credit reports when necessary to collect fees or establish credit for payment arrangements.

13. Acknowledgment

By signing below, Client acknowledges receipt of and consents to Firm's terms of engagement, the billing arrangements described above, and the retention and use of Client's information as set forth in this Agreement.

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