What does a retainer agreement outline?

A retainer agreement primarily serves to establish the terms of payment for legal services between a client and an attorney. This document typically details how much the client is expected to pay upfront, the nature of the services that will be covered under the retainer, and any additional billing arrangements for services beyond the retainer. By clearly outlining the financial aspects of the attorney-client relationship, the agreement helps prevent misunderstandings about payment obligations and provides a framework for managing financial expectations for both parties.

While the other options do touch on aspects that may be related to legal practice, they do not accurately capture the specific purpose of a retainer agreement. The legal obligations of clients, for instance, may be addressed in the context of various legal documents or contractual Relationships but are not the primary focus of a retainer agreement. Court procedures for representation and the rights of witnesses pertain to procedural law and evidentiary rules, which are not specifically addressed within a retainer agreement.