An attorney engagement letter is an agreement between the attorney and client regarding the terms and conditions on which the attorney or law firm will provide legal services to the client. The engagement letter generally includes the manner in which the attorney will charge the client for the legal services (hourly, contingent fee, fixed fee, with fee deposit), and the circumstances under which the attorney or client may terminate the relationship. The engagement letter will sometimes provide the process for resolving any disputes between the attorney and client (mediation, arbitration, litigation). You should carefully read the engagement letter and ask questions about any part of it you do not understand.
In Texas, an attorney engagement letter is a formal document that outlines the agreement between an attorney and a client regarding the provision of legal services. This letter typically specifies the fee structure, such as hourly rates, contingency fees, fixed fees, or retainer deposits required before services are rendered. It also details the scope of the legal work to be performed, the responsibilities of both the attorney and the client, and the terms under which either party can terminate the agreement. Additionally, the engagement letter may include dispute resolution procedures, such as mediation, arbitration, or litigation, to address any disagreements that may arise during the course of the attorney-client relationship. Clients are encouraged to thoroughly review the engagement letter and seek clarification on any aspect they do not understand before signing to ensure clear communication and to set proper expectations for the legal services to be provided.
