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 North Carolina, 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 details the fee structure, such as whether the attorney will charge hourly, on a contingent fee basis, a fixed fee, or require a fee deposit. It also includes terms for the termination of the legal relationship by either party. Furthermore, the engagement letter may specify the methods for dispute resolution, which could include mediation, arbitration, or litigation. It is crucial for clients to thoroughly review the engagement letter and seek clarification on any aspect they do not understand before agreeing to the terms. While North Carolina does not have specific statutes governing the content of attorney engagement letters, the North Carolina State Bar provides guidelines and ethical rules that attorneys must follow, including communication about fees and scope of representation (Rule 1.5 of the North Carolina Rules of Professional Conduct). Clients are encouraged to ensure that their engagement letters comply with these ethical standards.