Retainer And Contingency Fee Agreement Template for Nigeria

The Retainer and Contingency Fee Agreement is essential for establishing professional relationships between legal practitioners and clients in Nigeria where a combined fee structure is desired. This document is typically used when clients require ongoing legal services (covered by the retainer) while also having specific matters where payment is contingent on success (covered by the contingency fee). The agreement must comply with Nigerian legal requirements, particularly the Legal Practitioners Act and Rules of Professional Conduct, which govern fee arrangements and professional relationships. It's commonly used in litigation, corporate matters, and complex legal proceedings where both regular access to legal counsel and outcome-based compensation are appropriate. The document includes detailed provisions on fee calculations, payment terms, scope of services, and professional obligations, ensuring transparency and enforceability under Nigerian law.

1. Parties: Identification of the law firm/attorney and the client with full legal names and addresses

2. Background: Context of the agreement and brief description of the client's legal matter

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement including 'Retainer Fee', 'Contingency Fee', 'Legal Services', etc.

4. Scope of Services: Detailed description of legal services covered under the agreement

5. Retainer Fee Arrangement: Details of the retainer amount, payment schedule, and what it covers

6. Contingency Fee Structure: Percentage of recovery as contingency fee, calculation method, and circumstances triggering payment

7. Client Responsibilities: Client's obligations including providing information, documents, and maintaining communication

8. Attorney Rights and Responsibilities: Law firm's/attorney's obligations and professional commitments

9. Costs and Expenses: Treatment of case-related expenses and distinction from legal fees

10. Billing and Payment Terms: Detailed payment procedures, timing, and acceptable payment methods

11. Term and Termination: Duration of agreement and circumstances for termination by either party

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Specification of Nigerian law as governing law and jurisdiction for disputes

13. Execution: Signature blocks and execution requirements