 Before singing a retainer agreement you should be sure you understand it and know what it is. It is better for you to think over the following points that will help you to be well informed.
1. Reading the attorney-client agreement
2. Clearing up the purpose of the agreement
3. Finding out financial terms of the agreement
Reading the attorney-client agreement
You should know that it is very essential for you to read the entire contract or attorney-client agreement before signing it. Moreover, the agreement will help you to know exactly what you are agreeing to. You need time to review the contract. That's why, an attorney should give you as much time as you need for this and also answer any questions you may have. Additional, you would be wise to get a copy of any agreement you sign before leaving the attorney's office.
Clearing up the purpose of the agreement
With the attorney-client retainer agreement the ground rules for the attorney and client relationship are proponed. Besides, it is also supposed to build good will between the client and attorney. But, this is not always the case. In case the attorney-client agreement is not fully explained to you or if it is written dishonestly to advantage the attorney, then it can create complications and negatively influence on the attorney client relationship. So, firstly, you have to understand the ground rules of the agreement before agreeing to it.
Finding out financial terms and conditions
Before signing the agreement, it is important for you to fully understand the financial terms and conditions of it. The type of fee agreement may be contingent, hourly, flat, or a mix or combination of each. You should also clarify other expenses such as filing fees, photocopies, mailing and couriers, mileage and travel, parking, and telephone calls. If the attorney charges per hour, you will want to review the minimum billing unit or minimum time increments you will be bill for a task.
You see how important it is to know and understand the agreement, that's why, don't forget to read it before singing. And then you won't have any problems with your attorney.
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