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Client Retainer Agreement Template for Canada

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Key Requirements PROMPT example:

Client Retainer Agreement

"I need a Client Retainer Agreement for my boutique corporate law firm in Toronto, focusing on fixed-fee arrangements for startup clients, with specific provisions for virtual consultations and electronic document handling."

Document background
The Client Retainer Agreement is a crucial document used when establishing a professional relationship between a law firm and a client in Canada. It serves as the foundational contract that governs the provision of legal services, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding between the parties. This document is required by Canadian law societies and must comply with provincial regulations and professional conduct rules. The agreement typically includes detailed information about service scope, fee structures, communication protocols, confidentiality obligations, and file management procedures. It's particularly important for risk management and professional compliance, helping prevent misunderstandings about the nature and extent of legal services to be provided. The document should be customized based on whether the client is an individual or corporation, the type of legal services being offered, and specific provincial requirements where the services will be provided.
Suggested Sections

1. Parties: Identification of the law firm/lawyer and the client, including full legal names and contact information

2. Background: Context of the engagement and brief description of why the client is seeking legal services

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement defined for clarity

4. Scope of Services: Detailed description of legal services to be provided and any limitations or exclusions

5. Responsibilities of the Law Firm: Obligations and duties of the law firm/lawyer in providing the services

6. Client Responsibilities: Client's obligations including providing accurate information and timely communication

7. Fees and Billing: Fee structure, billing rates, payment terms, and billing frequency

8. Communication and Reporting: How and when the firm will communicate with the client about their matter

9. Confidentiality: Obligations regarding confidential information and attorney-client privilege

10. Conflicts of Interest: Handling of actual or potential conflicts of interest

11. Termination: Conditions and process for ending the attorney-client relationship

12. File Retention: Policy on maintaining and disposing of client files and documents

13. Governing Law: Specification that the agreement is governed by Canadian law and applicable provincial legislation

14. Execution: Signature blocks and date of agreement

Optional Sections

1. Trust Account Provisions: Required when retainer funds will be held in trust, detailing handling of trust funds

2. Multiple Client Provisions: Used when representing multiple clients in the same matter

3. Electronic Communications Consent: Specific provisions for clients agreeing to electronic communications and associated risks

4. Alternative Fee Arrangements: Used when implementing non-traditional billing methods like flat fees or contingency fees

5. International Services: Required when services may involve cross-border legal work

6. Mediation/Arbitration: Optional dispute resolution procedures for disagreements about the retainer

7. Third-Party Payment Provisions: Used when someone other than the client is paying for the legal services

8. Limited Scope Representation: Specific provisions for unbundled legal services or limited representation

Suggested Schedules

1. Schedule A - Fee Schedule: Detailed breakdown of hourly rates, fixed fees, or alternative fee arrangements

2. Schedule B - Scope of Services Detail: Comprehensive description of specific services to be provided

3. Schedule C - Team Members: List of lawyers and staff who will work on the matter with their roles and rates

4. Appendix 1 - Client Information Form: Client identification and verification information as required by anti-money laundering legislation

5. Appendix 2 - Disbursements Policy: Detailed policy on charging for disbursements and external expenses

6. Appendix 3 - Privacy Policy: Firm's privacy policy and information handling procedures

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓÆµ | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents | Serial Founder & Legal AI Author

Relevant legal definitions
































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Relevant Industries

Legal Services

Professional Services

Financial Services

Healthcare

Real Estate

Technology

Manufacturing

Retail

Construction

Energy

Transportation

Education

Non-Profit

Entertainment

Relevant Teams

Legal

Compliance

Risk Management

Finance

Operations

Administration

Business Development

Executive Leadership

Corporate Governance

Relevant Roles

General Counsel

Legal Director

Chief Legal Officer

Corporate Secretary

Legal Operations Manager

Compliance Officer

Risk Manager

Managing Partner

Senior Partner

Associate Lawyer

Legal Administrator

Practice Manager

Business Development Director

Chief Financial Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Industries








Teams

Employer, Employee, Start Date, Job Title, Department, Location, Probationary Period, Notice Period, Salary, Overtime, Vacation Pay, Statutory Holidays, Benefits, Bonus, Expenses, Working Hours, Rest Breaks,  Leaves of Absence, Confidentiality, Intellectual Property, Non-Solicitation, Non-Competition, Code of Conduct, Termination,  Severance Pay, Governing Law, Entire Agreemen

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