If you are seeking legal representation for a personal injury case in New York, you may have been presented with a retainer agreement by your potential attorney. A retainer agreement is a contract between you and your attorney that outlines the terms of the legal representation, including how much the attorney will charge and how they will be paid.
It is important to carefully review any retainer agreement before signing it, as it is a legally binding contract. To help you understand what to expect, we have provided a sample personal injury retainer agreement for you to review.
[INSERT NAME OF LAW FIRM]
Personal Injury Retainer Agreement
This agreement (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into this [INSERT DATE] by and between [INSERT NAME OF LAW FIRM] (the “Firm”) and [INSERT YOUR NAME] (the “Client”).
1. Scope of Representation
The Firm agrees to represent the Client in connection with [INSERT DESCRIPTION OF PERSONAL INJURY CASE]. The Firm will provide legal services for the Client, including but not limited to conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and representing the Client in negotiations and court proceedings.
2. Fee Arrangement
The Client agrees to pay the Firm for its legal services in accordance with the following fee arrangement:
a. Contingency Fee: The Firm will be compensated based on a percentage of any settlement or judgment obtained on behalf of the Client. The contingency fee percentage will be [INSERT PERCENTAGE] of the total recovery.
b. Costs and Expenses: The Firm will advance all costs and expenses associated with the Client’s case, including but not limited to court fees, expert witness fees, and travel expenses. These costs and expenses will be deducted from any settlement or judgment obtained on behalf of the Client.
3. Termination of Representation
Either party may terminate the representation at any time upon written notice to the other party. In the event the Client terminates the representation, the Firm will be entitled to reasonable compensation for the services rendered up to the date of termination.
4. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure
The Firm agrees to maintain the confidentiality of all information related to the Client’s case and not to disclose such information to any third party without the Client’s express written consent.
5. Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.
By signing below, the Client acknowledges that they have read and understand the terms of this Agreement and agree to be bound by its provisions.
[INSERT SIGNATURE BLOCKS FOR BOTH THE FIRM AND THE CLIENT]
In conclusion, it is important to carefully review any retainer agreement before signing it, as it is a legally binding contract. You may also want to consult with another attorney or legal professional if you have any concerns or questions about the terms of the agreement.