ENGAGEMENT LETTER - BANKRUPTCY

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[DATE]

[CLIENT NAME]
[CLIENT ADDRESS]

Re: Engagement for Bankruptcy Matter - [CHAPTER / CASE TYPE]
Dear [CLIENT NAME]:

Thank you for choosing [LAW FIRM NAME] (the "Firm"). This letter confirms our engagement and summarizes the scope and key terms of representation in your bankruptcy matter (the "Matter").

1. Scope of Representation

The Firm will represent you in connection with:
☐ Pre-filing counseling and case analysis
☐ Preparation and filing of the bankruptcy petition, schedules, and statements
☐ Attendance at the Section 341 meeting of creditors
☐ Chapter 13 plan preparation and confirmation process (if applicable)
☐ Routine communications with the trustee and creditors

Excluded unless agreed in writing: adversary proceedings, contested matters (e.g., stay relief, objections to exemptions, claim litigation), appeals, post-discharge enforcement, tax advice, business operations, and unrelated matters.

2. Required Courses and Disclosures

You must complete credit counseling before filing and a debtor education course after filing. Certificates must be provided to the Firm.

The Firm will provide any required compensation disclosures (e.g., bankruptcy fee disclosure forms) as required by law.

3. Fees and Costs

Your fees are governed by the attached Fee Agreement. You are responsible for costs such as filing fees, credit counseling and debtor education fees, credit reports, tax transcript fees, service of process, and other reasonable expenses.

4. Client Responsibilities

You agree to provide complete and accurate information, disclose all assets and debts, and promptly deliver requested documents. You must review all filings for accuracy and attend all required hearings or meetings.

5. No Guarantee

The Firm cannot guarantee any outcome, including discharge, plan confirmation, or approval of any agreement.

6. Termination

You may terminate this engagement at any time. The Firm may withdraw as permitted by applicable rules and court orders. Fees and costs incurred through termination remain due.

7. File Retention

The Firm will retain your file for [NUMBER] years after the Matter concludes, then may destroy it consistent with applicable rules.

8. Dispute Resolution

Fee disputes may be subject to bar-sponsored arbitration or mediation. Any additional dispute resolution provisions are set forth in the Fee Agreement, if applicable.

9. Acknowledgment and Acceptance

Please sign below to confirm your agreement to this engagement letter and the attached Fee Agreement.

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Agreed and accepted:

______________________________ ______________________________
[CLIENT NAME] [ATTORNEY NAME], [LAW FIRM]
Date: ________________________ Date: ________________________
Enclosures: Fee Agreement; Required Bankruptcy Disclosures