Engagement Agreement
This Engagement Agreement explains the terms under which ABLE Law Group (“the Firm”) provides legal services. Please review the following information carefully before proceeding.
1. Scope of Representation
ABLE Law Group agrees to provide legal services to the client in connection with a matter to be discussed and mutually agreed upon. Representation may be limited or full and may include, but is not limited to, criminal matters, civil matters, settlement negotiations, arbitration, and mediation.
The specific nature and scope of services will be defined upon commencement of representation. Initial engagement does not include appeals, unrelated legal matters, or services beyond the agreed scope unless expressly agreed to in writing. No specific outcome is guaranteed.
2. Rate Structures and Fees
Legal services may be provided under one or more of the following arrangements, as applicable:
- Hourly Fees
Attorney: $375 per hour
Paralegal: $200 per hour
A retainer may be required before work begins. Fees will be billed against the retainer, and replenishment may be required.
- Flat Fees
Certain matters may qualify for a flat fee. Flat fees are non refundable once work has commenced unless required by law. - Contingency Fees
Where permitted and agreed upon, fees may be based on a percentage of recovery. Clients remain responsible for litigation related expenses. - Legal Insurance
If representation is provided through a legal insurance provider, the client remains responsible for any costs not covered under the plan. - Case Specific Expenses
Clients are responsible for expenses related to their case, including court filing fees, service of process, expert witnesses, travel, copying, and courier or postage services. - After Hours Communication
Client initiated communications outside normal business hours (weekdays after 5 PM, weekends, and holidays) may be billed at the standard hourly rates listed above. - Late Payments
Balances more than 30 days past due may accrue interest at an annual rate of 18 percent.
3. Client Responsibilities
Clients agree to:
- Keep contact information current
- Respond promptly to requests for information or documents
- Appear at required meetings, hearings, or depositions
- Cooperate fully throughout representation
Failure to cooperate may result in withdrawal of representation.
4. Confidentiality
All information shared with ABLE Law Group is kept confidential in accordance with Maryland Rule 19 301.6 and other applicable laws. This obligation continues after representation ends.
5. Conflicts of Interest
ABLE Law Group confirms no known conflicts at the time of engagement. If a conflict arises, it will be disclosed promptly and may require written consent to continue representation.
6. Termination of Representation
Either the client or the Firm may terminate representation at any time with written notice. Upon termination:
- A final invoice will be issued
- Any unused retainer funds will be returned after outstanding balances are applied
The client remains responsible for all fees and expenses incurred through the termination date
7. Dispute Resolution
Any dispute related to this agreement or representation will first be addressed informally. If unresolved, disputes will be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with Maryland arbitration laws, including the Maryland Uniform Arbitration Act. Arbitration may be conducted through the Maryland State Bar Association Fee Dispute Program or another mutually agreed service.
8. File Retention
Client files will be retained for a minimum of five years following the conclusion of representation. After that period, files may be destroyed unless requested in writing prior to destruction.
9. Entire Agreement
This page represents the complete agreement between the client and ABLE Law Group. No other promises or representations are binding unless made in writing.
