California Attorney Retainer Agreement California Attorney Retainer Agreement

California Attorney Retainer Agreement

Prepare an Attorney Retainer Agreement between a California lawyer and a client with this fully editable template.

This Attorney Retainer Agreement outlines the terms and conditions governing the attorney-client relationship and the financial arrangements associated with legal representation of a client in the State of California.

Retainer Deposit and Trust Account

The client will provide a retainer deposit, which the attorney will deposit into a trust account. This deposit will be applied to legal fees, costs, and expenses as billed throughout the course of representation.

Billing Rates and Costs

The agreement sets out separate billing rates for legal services, paralegal services, and law clerk services. Billable costs and expenses may include, but are not limited to, process server fees, court filing fees, transcript costs, expert witness fees, and charges for communications related to the client’s case.

Client Responsibilities

The client is obligated to provide accurate and complete information to the attorney. Additionally, the client agrees to pay the attorney’s invoices promptly in accordance with the terms of this agreement.

Attorney's Lien

The client grants the attorney a lien over any claims or amounts due to the client, including awards, judgments, and settlements, as security for payment of legal fees, costs, and expenses incurred.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

The attorney must advise the client of any conflict of interest in accordance with Section 3-310 of the State Bar of California Rules of Professional Conduct.

Attorney-Client Privilege

The attorney will inform the client of the relevant provisions of California Evidence Code Section 962 concerning attorney-client privilege and confidentiality.

No Guarantee of Outcome

The attorney makes no guarantees regarding the outcome of the client’s legal matter.

Template Format and Use

This template is provided in Microsoft Word format and is fully editable to suit your specific business needs. It is intended for use exclusively in the State of California.

Document Type: Microsoft Word
Last Updated: 14-October-2025
SKU: 8943
$17.99
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