Scope of Services
Describe specific tasks (form preparation, representation, legal advice, translations), deliverables, and exclusions so the client understands what is and is not included.
A clear contract reduces misunderstandings about scope, fees, and responsibilities, establishes consent for electronic records and signature under 15 U.S.C. §7001 and UETA, and creates an evidentiary trail that supports enforcement or regulatory review.
Organizations and individuals who provide immigration guidance or representation use this contract to set expectations and record consent with clients.
Properly completed agreements protect both the provider and the client by documenting authority, deliverables, and payment terms.
An immigrant or visa applicant who receives services. The client must provide accurate identity documents, consent to electronic records when applicable, and understand fee, withdrawal, and grievance terms. The contract should explain consequences of incorrect information.
An attorney or accredited representative acting on behalf of the client. The representative's role, limitations, and authority to sign or file forms should be specified, including whether they may receive communications from USCIS or other agencies.
Describe specific tasks (form preparation, representation, legal advice, translations), deliverables, and exclusions so the client understands what is and is not included.
State retainer amounts, hourly rates or flat fees, refund and billing schedules, and whether the provider will collect government filing fees on the client’s behalf.
List documents the client must supply, deadlines for responses, and accuracy warranties to reduce the risk of filing errors or missed dates.
Describe how personal data will be used, stored, and shared; include HIPAA or other privacy addenda when handling protected health information.
Clarify who may sign on behalf of each party, whether electronic signatures are permitted, and whether notarization or witness signatures are required.
Set notice periods, conditions for ending representation, fee settlement on termination, and the agreed governing law for disputes.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature Type | Electronic signature with audit trail |
| Authentication | Email + SMS code or stronger KBA |
| Document Format | PDF/A for long-term retention |
| Storage Destination | Encrypted cloud folder with access controls |
Use platform settings that preserve legal validity, secure data in transit and at rest, and produce a detailed audit trail.
Date the contract is signed; services begin on this date.
Provider completes intake and initial assessment within 7 business days.
Retainer due on signing; subsequent invoices due per schedule in contract.
Typically 30 days written notice unless immediate termination for cause.
Specify refund rules and timelines following disengagement.
| 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 | Yes, 7-day 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 |
Optica improved client turnaround by standardizing engagement letters and templates.
A healthcare provider combined service contracts with privacy addenda for patient data handling.
An itemized invoice documenting retainer application, government fees collected, and remaining balance supports billing transparency.
If filings require representation, attach a signed power of attorney or Form G-28 equivalent authorizing the representative to act before agencies.
Add a data-use and disclosure addendum when handling health or other sensitive records to meet HIPAA or sectoral disclosure requirements.
Attach a milestone schedule for filings, document collection, interviews, and expected client tasks to set realistic expectations.