In the United States and Canada many large and midsize firms have attorneys with the job title of "counsel", "special counsel" or "of counsel." Unlike associates, and more like partners, they generally have their own clients and manage their own cases. The title is often seen among retired partners who maintain ties to the firm.
Connecticut Of Counsel Agreement with Law Partnership: A Detailed Description Connecticut Of Counsel Agreement with Law Partnership is a legal contract that outlines the relationship between a practicing attorney and a law partnership. This arrangement allows an attorney to work as an independent contractor or consultant with a law firm while maintaining their own practice and client base. The Of Counsel designation is used to signify a close and ongoing relationship between the attorney and the law partnership, although not as a full partner. In Connecticut, there are primarily two types of Counsel agreements: Retired Partner or Senior Attorney Agreement, and Specialized Counsel Agreement. 1. Retired Partner or Senior Attorney Agreement: This type of Counsel agreement is typically entered into by an attorney who was previously a partner in the law partnership but has retired from active partnership duties. It allows the retired attorney to continue working with the firm on a part-time or limited basis, providing their experience and expertise to the partnership and its clients. These agreements often involve reduced hours and responsibilities while still allowing the retired attorney to maintain a connection to the legal profession. 2. Specialized Counsel Agreement: Under this type of Counsel agreement, an attorney who possesses specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular area of law works closely with the law partnership on cases that require their specific skills. This arrangement benefits both parties, as the attorney can focus on their area of expertise while the law partnership can provide enhanced legal services to their clients. Specialized Counsel agreements are particularly common in complex fields such as corporate law, tax law, intellectual property, and environmental law. Connecticut Of Counsel agreements typically address various aspects of the attorney-law partnership relationship, including: 1. Scope of Work: The agreement specifies the nature and extent of the attorney's services, outlining the particular projects, cases, or specialties they will be involved in. This ensures clarity regarding the attorney's responsibilities and enables proper integration with the law partnership. 2. Duration: The agreement states the duration of the Of Counsel arrangement, which may be for a fixed term or indefinite, subject to termination by either party. 3. Compensation: The document details the compensation structure, including fee arrangements, percentage splits, hourly rates, or retainer fees. It may also include provisions for payment of expenses incurred in the course of providing legal services. 4. Ethical Considerations: Of Counsel agreements adhere to the ethical guidelines and rules set forth by the Connecticut State Bar Association. These include rules regarding client confidentiality, conflict of interest, and maintaining professional independence. 5. Professional Liability Insurance: The agreement may require the attorney to maintain professional liability insurance coverage to protect both themselves and the law partnership from any potential legal liabilities arising from their work. By entering into an Of Counsel Agreement with a law partnership in Connecticut, attorneys gain the opportunity to collaborate with a well-established firm, while the law partnership can benefit from the experience and specialized knowledge the attorney brings to the table. These agreements foster mutually beneficial relationships that allow for increased legal expertise and client services, enhancing the overall capabilities of the law partnership.
