Retainer agreements (also referred to as representation agreements) are a type of compensation agreement with lawyers either for reserving their employment or as compensation for future services. Also inside the agreement are details on the scope and procedure for the representation.
Here's my advice: Pitch only to existing clients or clients you know well. Never pitch a retainer agreement to someone you've never worked with before. Present the retainer as a way to get “front of the line” status. Highlight the benefit of predictable budgeting. Include a small discount (maybe)
Ideally, all clients entering a legal relationship with an attorney should have a form of retainer agreement reduced into writing. Many different types of cases would benefit from a retainer agreement. For example: Criminal charges.
Generally speaking, many jurisdictions require, or at least highly suggest, retainer agreements in writing. However, no laws require retainer agreements for clients and attorneys undertaking a general retainer relationship.
The goal of a retainer is to provide your clients with ongoing access to your agency's services. Furthermore, with a retainer agreement, agencies can offer their services at discounted prices to improve client retention. Exactly how much depends on the type of retainer you offer—which we will discuss further.
Traditional (Hawley) retainers have a piece of wire attached to plastic (or acrylic). Clear retainers (Essix) are also plastic but don't have any wires. Both are custom-made to fit your teeth.
Retainer agreements (also referred to as representation agreements) are a type of compensation agreement with lawyers either for reserving their employment or as compensation for future services. Also inside the agreement are details on the scope and procedure for the representation.