Attorney letter of representation template

Purpose of the Representation Letter

Use this letter to formally authorize your attorney to act on your behalf. It outlines the scope of your attorney’s representation and ensures that they have permission to handle your legal matters. This letter is crucial for clear communication between you and your legal counsel.

Key Elements of the Letter

• Client Information: Include your full name, address, and contact information.
• Attorney’s Information: Provide the attorney’s full name, law firm, and contact details.
• Specific Representation: Clearly define the legal matters for which the attorney has been authorized to act on your behalf.
• Duration of Representation: Indicate how long the attorney will represent you, whether for a specific case or an ongoing arrangement.
• Signature and Date: Both you and your attorney should sign and date the letter for authenticity.

Template Example

Here’s a basic example of a letter of representation:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[Attorney's Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
Dear [Attorney's Name],
I, [Your Full Name], hereby appoint you as my legal representative for the matter of [brief description of legal issue]. You are authorized to take all necessary actions, including but not limited to [specific actions, such as negotiating, filing documents, etc.], on my behalf.
This representation will commence on [start date] and continue until [end date or until the matter is resolved].
Please acknowledge receipt of this letter and your acceptance of this representation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]

Additional Considerations

If applicable, make sure to specify any limits or specific powers granted to your attorney, such as authority to make settlements, sign agreements, or appear in court. Always double-check the details to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.

Attorney Letter of Representation Template
Understanding the Purpose of a Representation Letter
Key Components to Include in the Letter
How to Tailor the Letter for Different Cases
Legal Language and Terminology in Letters
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Drafting
Steps to Properly Sign and Submit the Document

The letter of representation serves as formal documentation that an attorney represents a client in a legal matter. It notifies the relevant parties that all communications and legal responsibilities should be directed to the attorney rather than the client.

Key Components to Include in the Letter

Ensure the letter includes the client’s full name, the attorney’s name, and the matter being addressed. Specify the scope of the representation, identifying whether the attorney will handle all aspects or only specific actions related to the case. The letter should also contain the attorney’s contact details and a clear statement acknowledging the client’s consent to representation.

How to Tailor the Letter for Different Cases

Customize the letter based on the type of case. For a criminal case, for example, include details about the specific charges, while for a civil case, outline the claim being filed. Be specific about the role the attorney will play, such as providing counsel, managing filings, or representing the client in court.

Use clear legal language to avoid ambiguity. Avoid unnecessary jargon, but include terms specific to the case type to convey accuracy. Additionally, be mindful of the client’s understanding when drafting the letter.

Common mistakes to avoid include failing to outline the scope of representation clearly or leaving out important details like the date the representation begins. Always confirm that the letter has been signed and submitted correctly to the relevant parties to avoid any legal miscommunication.

Once the letter is finalized, it should be signed by both the client and the attorney. Submit the letter to the appropriate parties or authorities, and ensure that a copy is kept for your records.