An attorney engagement letter is an agreement between the attorney and client regarding the terms and conditions on which the attorney or law firm will provide legal services to the client. The engagement letter generally includes the manner in which the attorney will charge the client for the legal services (hourly, contingent fee, fixed fee, with fee deposit), and the circumstances under which the attorney or client may terminate the relationship. The engagement letter will sometimes provide the process for resolving any disputes between the attorney and client (mediation, arbitration, litigation). You should carefully read the engagement letter and ask questions about any part of it you do not understand.

In Louisiana, an attorney engagement letter is a formal document that outlines the agreement between an attorney and a client regarding the provision of legal services. This letter typically specifies the fee structure, such as hourly rates, contingency fees, fixed fees, or retainer deposits required before services are rendered. It also details the terms under which either the attorney or the client can terminate the legal relationship. Furthermore, the engagement letter may include clauses that address dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, arbitration, or litigation, should disagreements arise concerning the representation or fees. Clients are encouraged to thoroughly review the engagement letter and seek clarification on any aspect that is unclear to them. While Louisiana state statutes and federal law do not prescribe a specific format for engagement letters, they must comply with the Louisiana Rules of Professional Conduct, which govern attorney conduct and the attorney-client relationship.