A retainer agreement is a contract between a client and a lawyer that establishes the scope of legal services to be provided and the payment terms for such services. In California, retainer agreements are considered privileged communications, which means they are protected from disclosure in legal proceedings.
This privilege exists to encourage clients to be forthright with their attorneys and to provide them with all the information necessary to effectively represent them. It also ensures that clients can communicate freely with their lawyers without fear of their communications being used against them in court.
Under California law, the privilege applies to any communication between a client and their attorney that is made for the purpose of seeking legal advice or representation. This includes conversations, emails, letters, and other written materials exchanged between the two parties.
Clients are encouraged to enter into retainer agreements with their attorneys in order to establish clear expectations for legal services and payment. These agreements typically include a description of the legal services to be provided, the attorney`s fees and expenses, and any billing procedures.
The terms of a retainer agreement can vary widely depending on the complexity of the legal matter and the experience of the attorney. It is important for clients to carefully review and understand the terms of the agreement before signing it.
In conclusion, retainer agreements are an essential tool for establishing clear expectations and protecting the attorney-client relationship. As a professional, it is important to include relevant keywords such as “retainer agreement”, “privileged communication”, and “California law” to ensure that this article reaches the appropriate audience.