A fee agreement identifies proposed terms of representation, but it should be read as a complete document and does not predict the value or outcome of a claim.

Identify the stated terms

  • The scope of representation, client and lawyer responsibilities, communication methods, and any excluded work
  • How a fee is calculated, when it is earned, and how litigation or other expenses are described
  • Documents that are incorporated by reference, response dates, signatures, and copies of all versions
  • Questions about unclear wording kept with the document rather than answered by assumption

Read the current professional rule

North Carolina Rule 1.5 addresses fees and requires particular information in a contingent-fee agreement. The exact agreement and circumstances matter, so a general checklist cannot interpret a specific term.

The related lawyer-selection verification guide covers licensing and fit questions before a decision. A North Carolina personal-injury claim requires a fact-specific review.

Source