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Retainer Contract for India

Retainer Contract Template for India

A comprehensive agreement governed by Indian law that establishes a continuing professional relationship between a service provider and client, typically involving regular or ongoing services in exchange for a predetermined fee structure. The document outlines the scope of services, payment terms, obligations of both parties, and includes specific provisions compliant with Indian contract law and relevant professional regulations. It incorporates essential elements required under the Indian Contract Act, 1872, and addresses specific jurisdictional requirements for professional service agreements in India.

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What is a Retainer Contract?

The Retainer Contract is a fundamental document used to establish and govern ongoing professional service relationships in India. It is particularly relevant when a client requires regular access to professional services over an extended period, rather than one-off engagements. This agreement type is commonly used by law firms, consultants, advisory firms, and other professional service providers operating under Indian jurisdiction. The contract typically includes detailed provisions for service scope, retainer fees, payment structures, and service delivery expectations, all aligned with Indian legal requirements. It's essential for businesses seeking to establish long-term professional relationships while ensuring compliance with Indian contract law, professional regulations, and industry-specific requirements.

What sections should be included in a Retainer Contract?

1. Parties: Identification and details of the service provider and client

2. Background: Context of the engagement and brief description of the parties' intent

3. Definitions: Definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Scope of Services: Detailed description of services to be provided under the retainer

5. Term: Duration of the retainer agreement including start date and renewal terms

6. Retainer Fees and Payment Terms: Fee structure, payment schedule, and billing procedures

7. Service Provider's Obligations: Key responsibilities and commitments of the service provider

8. Client's Obligations: Key responsibilities and commitments of the client

9. Confidentiality: Provisions for handling confidential information

10. Intellectual Property Rights: Ownership and usage rights of any IP created during the engagement

11. Termination: Conditions and procedures for terminating the agreement

12. Dispute Resolution: Process for handling disputes between parties

13. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Specification of applicable law and courts

14. General Provisions: Standard boilerplate clauses including notices, amendments, etc.

What sections are optional to include in a Retainer Contract?

1. Non-Compete: Restrictions on competitive activities - include when protecting business interests is crucial

2. Performance Metrics: Specific KPIs and service levels - include for complex service arrangements

3. Insurance: Insurance requirements - include for high-risk services or regulatory compliance

4. Data Protection: Specific data handling requirements - include when personal or sensitive data is involved

5. Force Majeure: Provisions for unforeseen circumstances - include for long-term or critical services

6. Compliance with Laws: Specific regulatory compliance requirements - include for regulated industries

7. Assignment: Rights to transfer the agreement - include when flexibility in corporate restructuring may be needed

8. Subcontracting: Rights and conditions for subcontracting - include when service provider may need to delegate

What schedules should be included in a Retainer Contract?

1. Schedule A - Scope of Services: Detailed breakdown of services covered under the retainer

2. Schedule B - Fee Schedule: Detailed fee structure, rates, and payment terms

3. Schedule C - Service Levels: Specific performance metrics and service level agreements

4. Schedule D - Key Personnel: List of key team members and their roles

5. Schedule E - Reporting Requirements: Format and frequency of progress reports and communications

6. Appendix 1 - Communication Protocol: Procedures for routine communications and escalations

7. Appendix 2 - Compliance Checklist: Specific regulatory or internal compliance requirements

Authors

Alex Denne

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

Jurisdiction

India

Publisher

Ƶ

Document Type

Retainer Agreement

Cost

Free to use
Relevant legal definitions








































Clauses










































Relevant Industries

Legal Services

Management Consulting

Information Technology

Financial Services

Professional Services

Business Advisory

Marketing and Communications

Engineering Services

Healthcare Consulting

Environmental Consulting

Human Resources

Accounting and Tax

Relevant Teams

Legal

Finance

Procurement

Operations

Business Development

Compliance

Human Resources

Project Management

Account Management

Executive Leadership

Administrative

Risk Management

Relevant Roles

Legal Counsel

Corporate Lawyer

Managing Partner

Business Development Manager

Operations Director

Finance Manager

Procurement Manager

Contract Administrator

Chief Financial Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Professional Services Manager

Compliance Officer

Human Resources Director

Project Manager

Account Manager

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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