In Hawaii, an Attorney Retainer Agreement is a legally binding contract between a client and their chosen attorney. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the attorney-client relationship, including the scope of legal services to be provided, the fees structure, and other important provisions. The Attorney Retainer Agreement in Hawaii primarily serves to define the rights and responsibilities of both the client and the attorney. It establishes the nature of legal representation and sets clear expectations for the attorney's role in assisting the client with their legal matter. There are different types of Hawaii Attorney Retainer Agreements, each tailored to the specific needs of the client and the nature of their legal issue. Some of these agreements include: 1. General Retainer Agreement: This type of agreement is typically used when an attorney is engaged for ongoing legal services or representation. It establishes the attorney-client relationship and outlines the general terms and fees for the specified legal matters. 2. Limited Scope Retainer Agreement: This agreement is utilized when an attorney is hired for a specific task or a limited portion of a legal case. It clearly defines the scope of the attorney's involvement and services provided, ensuring that both parties are aware of the limited nature of the representation. 3. Flat Fee Retainer Agreement: In some cases, attorneys may offer their services at a fixed flat fee. This agreement specifies the services to be provided and the exact amount to be paid, regardless of the time spent on the case. It provides transparency and eliminates any uncertainty regarding legal costs. 4. Contingency Fee Retainer Agreement: This type of agreement is commonly used in personal injury or civil litigation cases. Here, the attorney represents the client on the condition that they will be paid a percentage of the final settlement or judgment won. This agreement outlines the percentage of the contingency fee and any associated expenses that the client may be responsible for. 5. Hourly Fee Retainer Agreement: When an attorney charges an hourly fee for their services, this agreement is employed. It stipulates the hourly rate, the billing increments, and may include an estimate of the total hours expected to complete the legal matter. It is important for both the client and the attorney to carefully review and understand the terms stated in the Hawaii Attorney Retainer Agreement before signing. Seeking legal advice or clarifications regarding any provisions is recommended to ensure a clear understanding and an effective attorney-client relationship.