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: West Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys Introduction: In West Virginia, attorneys sometimes collaborate on cases, necessitating a clear understanding and disclosure of how fees will be divided amongst multiple attorneys. This article will provide a detailed description of the West Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys, highlighting its importance and various types available. 1. Definition: The West Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys is a legal document or agreement that outlines the agreed-upon division of fees between multiple attorneys involved in a case. The letter serves as a written confirmation of the arrangement and ensures transparency between the attorneys and the client. 2. Importance: This disclosure letter plays a vital role in preserving the client's rights and ensuring a fair distribution of fees between attorneys. It offers a clear understanding of each attorney's responsibilities, efforts, and contributions to the case, preventing potential disputes and misunderstandings regarding fee division. 3. Contents of the West Virginia Disclosure Letter: The West Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys typically contains the following key elements: a) Identification of all participating attorneys, including their respective law firms or practices. b) A description of the case or legal matter under consideration. c) Explicitly stated fee division percentages or a breakdown of how fees will be allocated. d) Confirmation that the attorney fees are consistent with the West Virginia fee guidelines and ethical rules. e) Consent and acknowledgment of the client regarding the division of fees between the attorneys. 4. Types of West Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys: While the basic structure remains the same, some specific types or variations of this disclosure letter may include: a) Permanent Joint Representation: This type promotes a long-term collaboration between attorneys handling various aspects of a client's legal matters, and fee division is agreed upon for multiple cases or ongoing representation. b) Temporary Co-Counsel Arrangement: This type occurs when attorneys collectively work on a specific case for a limited duration, and the letter outlines the fee division for that particular matter only. c) Ad Hoc Collaboration: In situations where attorneys join forces on an "as-needed" basis for a particular case, this type of disclosure letter highlights the terms for that specific collaboration. Conclusion: The West Virginia Disclosure by Letter from Client to Attorney Regarding Division of Fees between Attorneys establishes a written agreement to ensure transparency, fairness, and proper client representation when multiple attorneys are involved in a case. Understanding the different types of this document allows attorneys and clients to manage fee division effectively, minimizing potential conflicts and providing a clear structure.
