ENGAGEMENT LETTER - FAMILY LAW

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[DATE]

[CLIENT NAME]
[CLIENT ADDRESS]

Re: Engagement for Family Law Matter - [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 family law matter (the "Matter").

1. Scope of Representation

The Firm will represent you in the following:
☐ Dissolution/divorce or legal separation
☐ Child custody and parenting plan
☐ Child support
☐ Spousal support/alimony
☐ Property division
☐ Modification or enforcement
☐ Protective order
☐ Other: ________________________

Excluded unless agreed in writing: appeals, criminal matters, immigration, tax advice, and unrelated disputes.

2. Fees and Costs

Your fees will be charged pursuant to the attached Fee Agreement. You are responsible for costs such as filing fees, service of process, expert evaluations, custody evaluators, court reporters, and mediation fees.

3. Client Responsibilities

You agree to provide complete and accurate information, respond promptly, attend required hearings and mediation, and comply with court orders. You will not communicate directly with the opposing party's counsel regarding settlement without our knowledge.

4. Settlement Authority

All settlement decisions are yours. The Firm will present all offers promptly and provide recommendations, but will not accept a settlement without your written approval.

5. Confidentiality and Communications

We will communicate by [EMAIL/PORTAL/MAIL]. You consent to electronic communications, subject to confidentiality risks. Text messaging is used only for scheduling unless you request otherwise.

6. No Guarantee

The Firm cannot guarantee any outcome. Results depend on facts, evidence, and the court's discretion.

7. 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.

8. File Retention

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

9. 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.

10. 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 State Disclosures