Legal Retainer and Authorization Form

LEGAL RETAINER AND AUTHORIZATION FORM

This Legal Retainer and Authorization Form (the "Agreement") is entered into on this date: Day: Month: Year: between Client Name: Client Address: and Law Firm Name: Firm Address:

RECITALS

WHEREAS, Client seeks legal representation and advice from the Firm in connection with the matters described in Section 1 below; and

WHEREAS, Firm is willing to provide legal services to Client on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, Client authorizes Firm to take specified actions, obtain documents, and communicate on Client's behalf as further set forth below.

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

1. Scope of Representation

Firm shall provide legal services to Client in connection with: (the "Matter"). The services shall include legal advice, drafting and filing of necessary documents, negotiation, and representation in administrative or judicial proceedings if authorized in writing. Routine administrative tasks and ministerial activities are included; extraordinary services outside the Matter require prior written authorization and may be subject to additional fees.

2. Fees, Retainer and Billing

Client agrees to pay Firm at the following rates and on the following terms. All amounts are due according to the billing terms specified below.

The retainer will be deposited into Firm's trust account and applied to final invoices in accordance with applicable trust account rules. Client acknowledges that the retainer is refundable only after final accounting of fees and costs. Firm may request replenishment of the retainer if it is depleted.

3. Costs and Expenses

Client shall be responsible for all out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by Firm on Client's behalf, including but not limited to filing fees, deposition costs, messenger and courier charges, service of process, expert fees, travel, and document production costs. Such costs may be advanced by Firm and billed to Client as incurred.

4. Authorization to Obtain Records and Communicate

Client expressly authorizes Firm and its agents to obtain records, reports, and information from third parties, including banks, employers, medical providers, government agencies, and opposing counsel, as necessary to represent Client in the Matter. Client also authorizes Firm to discuss the Matter with and disclose information to experts, co-counsel, consultants, and insurers as required for representation.

5. Client Responsibilities

Client shall cooperate fully, provide truthful and complete information, and promptly execute documents reasonably required by Firm. Client agrees to notify Firm of any change in address, phone number, or circumstances relevant to the Matter. Failure to cooperate may be grounds for withdrawal by Firm.

6. Conflicts, Withdrawal and Substitution

Firm represents that it is not aware of a conflict preventing representation at the time of signing. If a conflict arises, Firm will notify Client and take reasonable steps to resolve the conflict, which may include withdrawal. Firm may withdraw for good cause in accordance with applicable professional rules; Client may terminate the representation upon written notice.

7. Termination; Accounting; Refunds

Upon termination, Firm will provide Client with a final billing statement and account for trust funds. Any unused portion of the retainer, after deduction of fees and costs, will be refunded to Client in accordance with applicable rules. Client remains responsible for all fees and expenses incurred prior to termination.

8. Confidentiality and Privilege

Communications between Client and Firm are privileged and confidential to the extent recognized by law. Client authorizes Firm to disclose confidential information as necessary to carry out the representation or as required by law, provided such disclosure is minimized to the extent reasonably practicable.

9. Notices

All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and sent to the addresses below. Notice is effective upon personal delivery, confirmed electronic delivery, or three days after deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid.

10. Governing Law; Dispute Resolution

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state identified by Client's address above, without regard to conflict-of-law principles. Any dispute arising from this Agreement or the representation shall be resolved by litigation or arbitration as agreed in writing; absent agreement, the parties submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of that state.

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

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties concerning the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior understandings. Any amendment must be in writing and signed by both parties. If any provision is held invalid, the remainder shall remain in effect. Failure to enforce any provision shall not constitute a waiver. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.

12. Acknowledgment

Client acknowledges receipt of a copy of this Agreement, has read and understands its terms, and consents to the retention of Firm on the terms set forth herein. Client further acknowledges the right to seek independent counsel prior to signing.

Sign Now