A letter of instruction to a lawyer, also known as an engagement letter, is a formal document that outlines the scope of legal services to be provided, the fees to be charged, and the terms of the attorney-client relationship. It is an essential tool for both lawyers and clients to ensure that there is a clear understanding of the expectations and responsibilities of each party. In this article, we will provide a sample letter of instruction to lawyer template and discuss the key elements that it should include.
Key Elements of a Letter of Instruction to Lawyer Template
The following are the key elements that should be included in a letter of instruction to lawyer template:
- Client Information: This includes the client’s name, address, contact information, and a brief description of the legal matter.
- Attorney Information: This includes the attorney’s name, firm name, address, contact information, and bar membership number.
- Scope of Legal Services: This is a detailed description of the legal services that the attorney will be providing, including the specific tasks that will be performed.
- Fees and Billing: This section outlines the fees that the attorney will be charging, including the hourly rate, retainer fee, and any other costs that may be incurred.
- Terms of Engagement: This section sets forth the terms of the attorney-client relationship, including the duration of the engagement, the responsibilities of the client, and the termination of the relationship.
Additional Considerations for a Letter of Instruction to Lawyer Template
In addition to the key elements listed above, a letter of instruction to lawyer template may also include the following:
- Conflict of Interest: This section discloses any potential conflicts of interest that the attorney may have.
- Attorney-Client Privilege: This section reminds the client of the attorney-client privilege and the importance of maintaining confidentiality.
- Governing Law: This section specifies the governing law that will be applied to the attorney-client relationship.
- Execution: The letter of instruction to lawyer template should be signed by both the client and the attorney to indicate their agreement to the terms.
Conclusion
A well-drafted letter of instruction to lawyer template is an essential tool for both lawyers and clients. It helps to ensure that there is a clear understanding of the expectations and responsibilities of each party and can help to avoid misunderstandings and disputes.
If you are considering hiring an attorney, it is important to have a letter of instruction to lawyer template in place before the attorney begins working on your case. This will help to protect your interests and ensure that you are fully informed of the scope of legal services, the fees to be charged, and the terms of the attorney-client relationship.
