A South Carolina Attorney Fee Letter for Personal Injury — Contingency Retainer is a legal document that outlines the agreement between an attorney and a client in a personal injury case. It specifically addresses how the attorney will be compensated for their services, which are usually on a contingency fee basis, meaning they will only get paid if they win the case and secure a financial recovery for the client. This letter serves as a crucial tool in clearly defining the terms and conditions of the attorney-client relationship, ensuring that both parties have a mutual understanding of their responsibilities and obligations. It typically includes the following relevant details: 1. Introduction: The letter begins by stating the names of the attorney and the client, as well as their contact information and the date of the agreement. 2. Scope of Representation: This section outlines the specific legal services that the attorney will provide to the client. It may include tasks such as investigation, negotiation, litigation, and representation throughout the legal process. 3. Contingency Fee Arrangement: The attorney fee letter explains that the attorney will be compensated on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney will only receive a percentage of the client's financial recovery if they win the case. The specific percentage should be clearly stated, along with any additional expenses that may be deducted from the recovery, such as litigation costs or expert fees. 4. Costs and Expenses: The letter mentions any out-of-pocket expenses that the client may be responsible for during the course of the case, such as filing fees, medical records, or court costs. It is important to specify whether these expenses will be deducted from the client's recovery or if they need to be paid separately. 5. Duration of Representation: This section defines the time period during which the attorney will represent the client. It may also mention circumstances that could lead to the termination of the attorney-client relationship. 6. Conflicts of Interest: The letter may include a clause stating that the attorney will not represent any other parties or interests that may conflict with the client's best interests. 7. Withdrawal and Termination: This section outlines the conditions under which the attorney or the client may terminate the representation. It may include situations such as noncooperation, failure to pay costs, or disagreement on case strategy. Different types of South Carolina Attorney Fee Letters for Personal Injury — Contingency Retainer may include variations in the specific terms and conditions. For example, some letters may allow for a graduated contingency fee percentage as the case progresses, while others may outline different fee structures for settlement versus trial outcomes. It is essential for both the attorney and client to carefully review all the details to ensure understanding and agreement before signing the letter.