Legal Question in Legal Malpractice in California

Retainer fee

As an attorney what are the positives and negatives of using retainer fees?

I have a speech in my legal malpractice class and would like to hear from a real attorney. Thanks.


Asked on 7/24/05, 3:52 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Re: Retainer fee

Positives are that it is MUCH, MUCH, MUCH more likely that you will actually get paid for the work that you perform. Without a retainer it is MUCH, MUCH, MUCH more likely that a client will stiff you on a bill even where they were ecstatic about your work.

The biggest downside is accounting for the retainer and maintaining your trust account.

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Answered on 7/29/05, 6:29 pm
Carl Starrett Law Offices of Carl H. Starrett II

Re: Retainer fee

I have had to turn away clients who simply couldn't afford the retainer. Getting the deposit up front cuts down on the chances that the client won't pay you.

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Answered on 7/29/05, 6:37 pm


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