Retainer Agreement Explainer

When a client has questions about their retainer agreement, or as a companion document to send with the agreement.

Translate the following retainer agreement into a plain-English explanation for the client:

Retainer agreement:
[PASTE THE RETAINER/ENGAGEMENT AGREEMENT]

Create a client-friendly summary that explains:
1. What the lawyer will do for them (scope)
2. What the lawyer will NOT do (exclusions)
3. How much it will cost and how billing works
4. What the retainer means — it's not a flat fee, it's a deposit drawn against
5. When and how they'll receive bills
6. What expenses they're responsible for beyond attorney fees
7. How either side can end the relationship
8. What happens to their file when the case is over
9. Any important deadlines or obligations on their part

Use simple language. Avoid legal terms. Write as if explaining to someone with no legal background.

Example Output

A 1-2 page plain-English guide explaining the retainer terms in everyday language, suitable to email to the client.

Tips

• •Send this alongside the actual agreement — it shows you respect the client's time and intelligence.
• •Highlight the sections most likely to surprise clients: hourly billing increments, expense charges, and file retention.
• •Include a FAQ section for the most common client questions about fees.

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