Legal File Opening Document

LEGAL FILE OPENING DOCUMENT

This Legal File Opening Document is executed on Date: by and between Law Firm Name: with principal address: (the "Firm") and Client Name: with address: (the "Client").

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the Client seeks to retain the Firm to provide legal services in connection with the matter described as Matter Title: and designated Matter Number: ; and

WHEREAS, the Firm has conducted an initial conflicts check, and the results are set forth in the Conflicts and Clearance section below; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to set forth the terms and conditions under which the Firm will open and maintain a file for the Client and proceed with the representation.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

1. SCOPE OF REPRESENTATION

1.1 Engagement. The Firm is retained to provide legal services specifically limited to the following scope:

1.2 Exclusions. Unless expressly stated in the scope description above, the Firm will not provide services relating to matters that are outside the stated scope without a written amendment signed by both parties.

2. RESPONSIBLE ATTORNEY AND CONTACTS

3. FEES, RETAINER AND BILLING

3.1 Fee Arrangement. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, Client will be billed on an hourly basis at the rates for attorneys and staff assigned to the matter. The current hourly rate for the primary attorney is per hour. Rates for other personnel will be provided upon request.

3.2 Retainer. Client shall pay an initial retainer in the amount of to be deposited into the Firm's trust account. The retainer will be applied to fees and expenses in accordance with the Firm’s billing practices.

3.3 Expenses. Client shall reimburse the Firm for all reasonable out‑of‑pocket expenses incurred on Client's behalf, including but not limited to filing fees, courier charges, deposition costs, expert fees, and travel. Such expenses will be itemized on invoices.

4. CONFLICTS, CLEARANCE AND PRIVACY

4.1 Conflicts Search. The Firm represents that it has performed a reasonable conflicts check based on the information provided by the Client. Conflict search completed: Yes Pending further information

4.2 Confidentiality. The Firm will maintain the confidentiality of Client information subject to applicable rules of professional conduct. Client acknowledges that certain information may be disclosed as necessary for representation, and the Firm may consult with colleagues or experts under duty of confidentiality.

5. CLIENT OBLIGATIONS

5.1 Client shall cooperate with the Firm, provide accurate and complete information, produce requested documents promptly, attend meetings and depositions, and notify the Firm of any material developments. Failure to do so may result in withdrawal or termination of the representation.

6. FILE OPENING CHECKLIST

The following items are required for file opening. Check when completed:

Identification verified

Conflict check completed

Retainer received

Engagement letter signed

Initial documents collected

7. DOCUMENTS, AUTHORIZATIONS AND TRUSTS

7.1 Authorization to Obtain Records. Client hereby authorizes the Firm to obtain documents, records, and information necessary for representation, including medical, financial, corporate, and public records, subject to applicable privacy laws.

7.2 Trust Account Handling. Funds received in advance shall be deposited to the Firm's trust account and applied only as permitted by applicable professional rules. The Firm will render periodic accounting on request.

8. NOTICES

All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and delivered to the addresses set forth below or to such other address as a party designates in writing.

9. TERMINATION, FILE CLOSURE AND RETENTION

9.1 Termination. Either party may terminate the representation upon written notice. Client remains responsible for fees and expenses incurred prior to termination. The Firm may withdraw in accordance with professional rules.

9.2 File Retention. Upon conclusion of the matter or termination, the Firm will retain the Client file in accordance with Firm policy. The Firm may dispose of physical or electronic files after reasonable notice and accounting for any unclaimed property or trust funds.

10. MISCELLANEOUS

10.1 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which the Firm maintains its principal office, without regard to conflicts of law principles.

10.2 Entire Agreement. This document constitutes the entire agreement between the parties concerning the subject matter herein and supersedes all prior oral and written agreements and understandings.

10.3 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect to the maximum extent permitted by law.

10.4 Amendments and Waiver. Any amendment must be in writing and signed by both parties. No waiver of any provision shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the party granting the waiver.

10.5 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which together shall constitute one agreement. Facsimile or electronic signatures shall be binding.

CERTIFICATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

By signing below, Client certifies that the information provided to the Firm is true and complete to the best of Client’s knowledge and acknowledges receipt of the Firm’s terms regarding fees, retainer, billing, and confidentiality as set forth in this document.

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