Without an agreement as to the division of fees, attorneys jointly undertaking to represent a client share equally, and this is true even though one attorney employs another attorney to assist in an action for a contingent fee. But where the client's employment of more than one attorney is not joint, or where separate attorneys render separate services, each is entitled only to the reasonable value of each attorney's services.
Title: Understanding Virginia's Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys Keywords: Virginia, disclosure, letter, client, attorney, division of fees, ethical rules, referral, separate representation, responsibility, fee sharing, types Introduction: Virginia's legal system governs the ethical rules and regulations surrounding the division of fees between attorneys who have jointly represented a client. To ensure transparency and protect the interests of all parties involved, Virginia law requires the implementation of a disclosure process known as the Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys. This article aims to provide a detailed description of this important procedure, shedding light on its significance, requirements, and various types of fee division scenarios. Types of Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys: 1. Referral Arrangement Fee Division: One type of fee division is when an attorney refers a client to another attorney due to conflicts, capacity issues, or areas of specialization. In such cases, a referral arrangement fee division occurs, allowing the referring attorney to receive a percentage of the fees generated by the case. 2. Separate Representation Fee Division: In certain situations, multiple attorneys may be jointly retained to represent a client, either due to complex legal matters or the need for specialized expertise. The disclosure letter provides an avenue for these attorneys to define how the fees will be divided among them, ensuring fairness and accountability. Detailed Description: The Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys is a formal procedure that aims to promote transparency and compliance with ethical obligations across the legal profession. The letter serves as a written agreement between the client, the attorney originally retained by the client, and any other attorney(s) involved in the case. To implement this process effectively, the letter must include vital information, such as: 1. Identification of attorneys: The letter should clearly identify all attorneys involved in the case, including the referring attorney (if applicable). 2. Explanation of fee division: The letter should specify how the fees will be divided among the attorneys. This includes defining the percentage or amount each attorney will receive based on their contribution to the case and the nature of the referral or representation arrangement. 3. Informed client consent: The letter demonstrates that the client is aware of the fee division arrangement and gives written consent to the involved attorneys to distribute fees as agreed. 4. Client's right to object: The letter must inform the client of their right to object to the fee division arrangement, offering them an opportunity to voice any concerns or disagreements. This ensures that the client's interests are protected throughout the process. Conclusion: Virginia's Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys plays a crucial role in maintaining transparency, fostering professional ethics, and protecting the interests of both attorneys and clients. By establishing clear guidelines for fee division, whether through referral arrangements or separate representation, this process ensures fairness, accountability, and adherence to the legal code of conduct. Attorneys practicing in Virginia must adhere to these requirements to maintain the integrity of their profession and relationships with their clients.
