Your law firm's engagement agreement is your absolute first and best line of defense. Keep in mind that only clients can sue you for legal malpractice (with extreme exceptions) and clients are by far your primary source of risk of attorney ethics complaints.
This month, pull out your template engagement agreement and make it better, for you, your firm, AND your clients.
16 Ways to Reinforce Your Engagement Agreement
- Clear Language: Use plain language to ensure clients understand the terms, responsibilities, and legal implications - consider an intro/cover letter.
- Define Scope of ...
Rule 1.1 (Competence) vaguely requires "competent representation." The Comment includes 8 ¶s.
Every state has adopted some form of Rule 1.1, with many adding CLE and/or technology competency requirements.
Insights from our law firm General Counsel and yours, Jeffrey J. Cunningham
