Hiring an attorney is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Not only do you want to make sure that the attorney you choose has the necessary skills and experience to handle your case, but you also want to be confident that you have a clear understanding of what the attorney will do for you and what it will cost.
In New Jersey, as in most states, it is common for attorneys to require clients to sign a retainer agreement before any work is done. A retainer agreement is a contract that outlines the terms of the attorney-client relationship, including the scope of the work to be done, the fees to be charged, and the payment terms.
The retainer agreement is an important document that protects both the attorney and the client. For the client, the retainer agreement ensures that the attorney is committed to handling the case and that the client understands the fees and payment terms upfront. For the attorney, the retainer agreement ensures that the client is committed to paying for the work that is done.
When reviewing a retainer agreement, it is important to pay close attention to the following sections:
1. Scope of Work: This section outlines the specific legal services that the attorney will provide, such as legal advice, document preparation, or representation in court. It is important to make sure that the scope of work is clearly defined so that there is no confusion about what the attorney will do.
2. Fees: This section outlines the fees that the attorney will charge for the work done. The fees may be based on an hourly rate or a flat fee, depending on the type of legal services being provided. It is important to make sure that the fees are reasonable and that there are no hidden costs.
3. Payment Terms: This section outlines the payment terms, including when payments are due and how they can be made. It is important to make sure that the payment terms are clear and that they are reasonable.
4. Termination: This section outlines the circumstances under which the attorney-client relationship may be terminated, such as if the client fails to pay fees or if the attorney is no longer able to provide the legal services outlined in the retainer agreement. It is important to understand the termination provisions so that you know what your options are if you are not satisfied with the attorney`s services.
If you are considering hiring an attorney in New Jersey, it is important to take the time to review the retainer agreement carefully. Make sure that you understand the scope of work, the fees, the payment terms, and the termination provisions. By doing so, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of what to expect and can avoid any surprises down the road.