Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

Which aspect of a retainer agreement is typically the responsibility of the client?

1. The attorney’s fees.

2. All evidence collection.

3. Any associated costs and expenses.

4. Scheduling court appearances.

The correct answer is: Any associated costs and expenses.

In a retainer agreement, the client is typically responsible for any associated costs and expenses that arise during the legal representation. This can include a variety of expenses such as court filing fees, costs for expert witnesses, travel expenses, and any other expenses that the attorney may incur while handling the client's case. Understanding this aspect of the retainer agreement is crucial for clients, as it helps them recognize that legal fees are separate from other costs associated with their case. The attorney's fees generally refer to the payment for the attorney's time and services, which the lawyer will outline in the retainer. While evidence collection may involve actions taken by both the lawyer and the client, it is largely guided by the attorney's strategy. Scheduling court appearances may also involve the attorney, as they often take the lead in managing the court calendar and legal proceedings. However, it is ultimately the client's responsibility to be informed about and manage the expenses related to their case, making any associated costs and expenses their responsibility under the retainer agreement.