retainer fee question

[rh71]

Having a lawyer represent us in a case. Does this retainer fee statement clearly indicate we get money back if not all of it is used? They verbally said so in the initial meeting but of course we want to be sure in writing. They stated in a previous paragraph they are charging $xxx/hr.

 

[lxskllr]

Getting money back from a lawyer? Good luck with that :^D

It doesn't clearly state unused money(yea right!) will be refunded, but it's implied.

 

[Markbnj]

Getting money back from a lawyer? Good luck with that :^D

This. They have never had to worry about that language because the situation has never arisen.

 

[rh71]

Well they were specific about billing in 6-minute increments and they document what is done every time something needs to be done and account for the time. On top of that, they gave an example where the defendant could settle with us after just the initial letter which is likely less than 1 hr of work. At their hourly rate, it takes 16.5 hours of work to reach the retainer fee. I tend to believe when they stated verbally they would give unused money back, so I'm not sure if you guys are just making fun of lawyers or speaking from experience.

As long as the letter seems like they will return unused retainer fee (and that's how it usually works?), then all is good.

 

[GasX]

The retainer is generally a minimum fee applied against work done. Don't expect a refund unless you are told to expect one.

 

[GagHalfrunt]

No, that does not mention a refund. It says that they reserve the right to charge you more than the retainer.

Not going to be an issue. No matter how big the retainer is they'll pad the bill to exceed that amount. You will NEVER be entitled to a refund, so there's no reason to add language pointing out how it would happen.

 

[ponyo]

Couple years back I paid $1,500 for lawyer retainer fee. I was trying to collect little over $30k on a past due account. The lawyer was able to settle and collect the money for me after one letter and couple of phone calls. I received the $30k and almost $800 of the original $1,500 retainer fee.