A contingent fee contract in New Mexico is a legal arrangement between a client and an attorney where the attorney's fee is determined based on the outcome of the case. This type of agreement is commonly used in personal injury lawsuits or other cases where the client seeks financial compensation. Under a contingent fee contract, the attorney agrees to handle the client's case without charging any upfront fees or retainer. Instead, the attorney receives a percentage of the final settlement or judgment amount if the case is successful. This arrangement allows clients with limited financial resources to hire competent legal representation without worrying about upfront costs. However, in some cases, clients may prefer to hire an attorney using a combination of a retainer and an hourly fee structure. This type of arrangement is beneficial when the case involves complex legal issues or extended litigation, where a set percentage fee may not be appropriate. The retainer ensures the attorney's availability and commitment to the case, while the hourly fee covers the time spent on legal work. The New Mexico contingent fee contract also addresses situations where the representation is terminated before the case is resolved. If either party decides to terminate the attorney-client relationship, the agreement will typically outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties regarding fees and expenses incurred up to that point. In addition to the standard contingent fee contract with retainer and hourly fee, there may be variations based on the nature of the case or the preferences of the parties involved. These variations could include modified retainer agreements, sliding-scale fees, or hybrid fee structures that combine contingency, retainer, and hourly fees. It is vital for both clients and attorneys to carefully review and negotiate the terms of the contingent fee contract before signing. This ensures a clear understanding of the fee structure, termination conditions, and any other relevant details pertaining to the legal representation. In conclusion, a New Mexico contingent fee contract to employ an attorney with a retainer and hourly fee provides flexibility for clients who require legal representation but may not have the means to pay upfront fees. While the standard agreement covers most cases, there may be variations to suit specific needs or circumstances. To ensure a fair and mutually beneficial contract, it is essential to discuss and agree upon the terms with the attorney before proceeding with legal representation.