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 Wyoming, as in other states, an attorney engagement letter is a formal document that outlines the agreement between an attorney and a client regarding the scope of legal services to be provided. This letter typically includes details about 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 outlines the terms under which either the attorney or the client can terminate the legal relationship. Furthermore, the engagement letter may specify the method for resolving disputes, which could include mediation, arbitration, or litigation. It is crucial for clients to thoroughly review the engagement letter and seek clarification on any aspect that is unclear to them. While Wyoming does not have specific statutes governing the content of attorney engagement letters, the Wyoming Rules of Professional Conduct require attorneys to communicate the basis or rate of their fees and expenses to clients, preferably in writing, before or within a reasonable time after commencing representation. This ensures transparency and understanding between the attorney and client regarding the legal services and associated costs.