Contingency Fee Agreement Template

A contingency fee agreement is a legal contract that outlines the terms of a fee arrangement between an attorney and a client. In such an agreement, the attorney’s fees are contingent upon the outcome of the case. This means that the attorney will only receive payment if the client wins the case or obtains a favorable settlement.

Key Elements of a Contingency Fee Agreement

A well-structured contingency fee agreement should include the following essential elements:

1. Parties Involved

Client Information: Clearly identify the client’s name, address, and contact information.

Attorney Information: Provide the attorney’s name, law firm name, address, and contact details.

2. Scope of Representation

Specific Case Details: Clearly define the nature of the legal matter and the specific claims or defenses involved.

Attorney’s Duties: Outline the scope of the attorney’s representation, including the tasks and responsibilities they will undertake.

3. Contingency Fee Structure

Fee Percentage: Specify the percentage of the recovery or settlement that the attorney will receive as their fee.

Fee Calculation: Clearly explain how the fee will be calculated, including any deductions or adjustments.

Costs and Expenses: Address the client’s responsibility for costs and expenses incurred during the case.

4. Attorney’s Fees in Case of Settlement or Judgment

Fee Calculation: Outline how the attorney’s fee will be calculated in the event of a settlement or judgment.

Fee Payment: Specify the timing and method of fee payment.

5. Client’s Obligations

Cooperation: Require the client to cooperate fully with the attorney, including providing necessary information and documents.

Financial Responsibility: Address the client’s responsibility for costs and expenses.

6. Attorney’s Obligations

Diligent Representation: Specify the attorney’s obligation to represent the client diligently and competently.

Ethical Conduct: Ensure that the agreement complies with all applicable ethical rules.

7. Termination of Representation

Termination Grounds: Outline the circumstances under which either party can terminate the agreement.

Attorney’s Fees: Address the attorney’s right to fees if the client terminates the agreement before the case is resolved.

8. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

Governing Law: Specify the law that will govern the agreement.

Dispute Resolution: Outline the procedure for resolving any disputes that may arise between the parties.

9. Entire Agreement

Merger Clause: State that the agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the parties and supersedes any prior or contemporaneous agreements.

10. Signatures

Signatures of Parties: Require both the client and attorney to sign the agreement, indicating their acceptance of the terms.

Design Elements for a Professional Contingency Fee Agreement Template

To create a professional and trustworthy contingency fee agreement template, consider the following design elements:

Clear and Concise Language: Use plain language that is easy to understand. Avoid legal jargon that may confuse the client.

Consistent Formatting: Maintain consistent formatting throughout the document, using headings, bullet points, and numbering to improve readability.

Professional Layout: Choose a professional font and font size that is easy to read. Use appropriate margins and spacing to create a clean and organized layout.

Branding: If applicable, incorporate your law firm’s branding elements, such as your logo and color scheme, to create a cohesive and professional appearance.

Electronic Signature: Consider using electronic signature technology to streamline the signing process and reduce the need for paper copies.

By carefully considering these elements, you can create a contingency fee agreement template that is both professional and informative, providing a solid foundation for your attorney-client relationship.