A South Dakota Attorney Fee Contract Contingentnc— - 40% is a legally binding agreement between a client and an attorney in the state of South Dakota. This type of contract is commonly used in personal injury cases or other civil litigation matters where the client does not have the financial means to pay for legal services upfront. Below is a detailed description of what this type of contract entails and its key elements: 1. Definition: A South Dakota Attorney Fee Contract Contingentnc— - 40% is an arrangement where the attorney agrees to represent the client and handle all legal matters related to the case on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney will only receive payment if they successfully obtain a favorable outcome, typically in the form of a settlement or a court-awarded verdict. 2. Key terms: The contract clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the agreement between the client and the attorney. It should specify that the attorney will receive a percentage (in this case, 40%) of any financial compensation recovered on behalf of the client as their fee. The remaining portion will go to cover legal expenses, such as court fees and expert witness fees. 3. Legal services covered: The contract should also describe the scope of legal services provided by the attorney. It may include conducting investigations, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies or opposing parties, preparing legal documents, representing the client in court, and providing legal advice and guidance throughout the case. 4. Deadlines and termination: The contract may include provisions regarding case deadlines, such as the statute of limitations, and outline the consequences of missing these deadlines. It should also include provisions allowing either party to terminate the agreement under specific circumstances, such as attorney-client disputes or if the client wishes to seek alternate legal representation. 5. Costs and expenses: In addition to the attorney's contingency fee, the contract should address any costs and expenses associated with the case that will be deducted from the client's financial recovery, such as court filing fees, deposition expenses, medical record retrieval fees, and expert witness fees. It's important for both parties to understand what expenses will be covered by the client and what will be covered by the attorney. Different variations of South Dakota Attorney Fee Contract Contingentnc— - 40% may exist, varying in the percentage of the contingency fee. It's crucial for clients to carefully review and understand all terms and conditions of the contract before signing it. Additionally, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure the contract aligns with their best interests and legal rights.