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Sample Letter to Client regarding Refund of Balance of Retainer

State:
Multi-State
Control #:
US-0492LTR
Format:
Word; 
Rich Text
Instant download

About this form

The Sample Letter to Client regarding Refund of Balance of Retainer is a formal communication from an attorney to a client, documenting the return of any remaining funds from a retainer agreement. This form is essential for attorneys to maintain transparency with their clients and clarify the closing of their case. Unlike other legal forms, this letter specifically addresses the financial aspect of client representation, ensuring an organized closure for all matters related to the attorney-client relationship.

Key components of this form

  • Date of the letter.
  • Client's name and address.
  • Amount to be refunded.
  • Statement regarding the completion of matters related to the client's file.
  • Closing remarks and future contact invitation.
  • Signature line for the attorney's name.

Situations where this form applies

This form should be used when an attorney has completed a representation and has taken care of all necessary matters, resulting in a remaining balance of the retainer that must be refunded to the client. It is particularly important to send this letter when concluding a case to provide a clear financial record and foster trust in the attorney-client relationship.

Who needs this form

  • Attorneys who are closing client files.
  • Law firms managing retainer agreements with clients.
  • Clients who are awaiting the return of their retainer funds.

Instructions for completing this form

  • Identify and enter the date at the top of the letter.
  • Fill in the client's name and address accurately.
  • Specify the refund amount in the designated area.
  • Include a brief statement about the conclusion of the legal matter related to the client.
  • Add closing remarks and an invitation for future legal inquiries.
  • Sign the letter, including the attorney's name and title.

Is notarization required?

This form does not typically require notarization unless specified by local law. However, verifying specific jurisdictional requirements is always advisable to ensure compliance.

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Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

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Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

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Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.

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If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

Form selector

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.

Common mistakes

  • Forgetting to include the refund amount.
  • Not addressing the client by their correct name.
  • Failing to note the date of completion of services clearly.
  • Omitting a signature, which may invalidate the letter.

Why use this form online

  • Convenient digital access for attorneys and clients.
  • Editability to personalize the letter as needed.
  • Reliable templates created by licensed attorneys.
  • Immediate download for quick use upon case closure.

What to keep in mind

  • The Sample Letter to Client regarding Refund of Balance of Retainer is essential for formal legal communication about retainer refunds.
  • The letter outline facilitates professionalism in concluding client cases.
  • Proper completion of the letter can prevent misunderstandings and establish trust between the attorney and client.

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FAQ

What is a reasonable time is determined by a judge. A: Unless the matter is a Municipal Court matter, not really sure what you retained them for at this low price. If you sent out a demand letter advising you want to cancel the Retainer and return the fee, it should be a reasonable time but no more than 30 days.

Getting Back Unused, Pre-Paid Fees If the work is not performed -- regardless of the reason for non-performance -- then the lawyer owes the client a refund. That means whether you fire your attorney, or your attorney quits, you may be entitled to a refund for any paid-for services not yet rendered.

If you paid a retainer and there is money left from the retainer, then you are entitled to get the money back from the attorney. The attorney is allowed to take money from the retainer for the time he worked on your case.

The amount serves as a guarantee by the client to pay the attorney upon completion of the agreed work. The attorney cannot claim the retainer fee until he has completed the work and invoiced the client. Any remaining retainer fee after paying the hourly attorney fees should be returned to the client.

If it is clearly a retainer fee, all unused portions of the retainer fee, at the end of the engagement, should be returned to the client. Talk to the attorney and ask them why the delay (if any) for the case.

Getting a refund from a lawyer is very possible. You need to have evidence you made payments and proof the attorney did not deliver as per the agreement. On the other hand, if you refuse to pay your lawyer for work done, you risk being sued or spoiling your name.

If it is clearly a retainer fee, all unused portions of the retainer fee, at the end of the engagement, should be returned to the client. Talk to the attorney and ask them why the delay (if any) for the case.

The amount serves as a guarantee by the client to pay the attorney upon completion of the agreed work. The attorney cannot claim the retainer fee until he has completed the work and invoiced the client. Any remaining retainer fee after paying the hourly attorney fees should be returned to the client.

Ask for a refund in a polite and formal language. Include details about the productwhat was purchased, when, and what the price was. Explain why you want to return the item. Mention relevant aspects of the transaction such as dates and place of delivery.

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Sample Letter to Client regarding Refund of Balance of Retainer