An Engagement Letter is a legal document that defines the relationship between a professional (such as a lawyer, accountant, or consultant) and their client. It outlines the services to be provided, the terms of the agreement, and any other obligations or expectations.
Although the Engagement Letter and Contract serve different purposes, they share many similarities. They are both legally binding documents that require signatures from both parties, have specific terms and conditions, and can be used as evidence in court.
How to write an engagement letter Write the name of the business leader. Specify the purpose of the partnership. List the duties of the client. Identify the timeline for completing the project. Include resources the client delivers. Attach a disclaimer. Validate the terms of the agreement.
Binding nature: LOIs are generally non-binding, allowing parties flexibility in negotiations, whereas LOEs are legally binding contracts that enforce obligations once signed.
An Engagement Letter, also known as an engagement agreement, is a legally binding contract that formalizes the relationship between a service provider and a client by clearly defining the terms, responsibilities, and expectations of both parties.
Engagement letters help prevent miscommunication and disputes down the road by clearly defining the relationship's terms from the onset. For accounting firms, engagement letters aren't just a best practice. They're an absolute necessity to protect both the firm and its clients.