An engagement letter is a crucial document that formalizes the agreement between a professional service provider (like a lawyer, accountant, consultant, or architect) and their client. It clearly outlines the scope of services to be provided, the responsibilities of both parties, the fee structure, and other important terms and conditions. A well-written engagement letter minimizes misunderstandings, protects both parties from potential disputes, and builds a strong foundation for a successful working relationship. It establishes clear expectations from the outset.
The following samples demonstrate a range of engagement letters tailored to different industries and service types. Each example highlights key elements that should be included, such as a detailed description of the services, payment terms, termination clauses, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Remember to adapt these templates to your specific situation and consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The purpose of this article is to provide inspiration and a starting point; professional legal advice is always recommended.
12 Engagement Letter Samples
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Sample 1: General Consulting Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Subject: Engagement Letter – Consulting Services
Dear [Client Name],
This letter confirms our agreement for consulting services. We will provide [brief description of services]. Our fees are [fee structure details]. Please sign and return a copy to indicate your agreement.Sincerely,
[Your Name/Company Name] -
Sample 2: Legal Representation Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Re: Legal Representation in [Case Name/Matter]
Dear [Client Name],
This letter outlines the terms of our legal representation in the above-referenced matter. Our scope of work includes [detailed description of legal services]. Our hourly rate is [hourly rate], and you will be responsible for all associated costs. Please review and sign to acknowledge your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Law Firm Name] -
Sample 3: Accounting Services Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Subject: Engagement Letter – Accounting Services
Dear [Client Name],
This letter confirms our engagement to provide accounting services, including [specific accounting services]. Our fees will be calculated based on [fee calculation method]. We require timely access to your financial records. Please sign below to indicate your acceptance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Accounting Firm Name] -
Sample 4: Website Design Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Re: Website Design & Development Project
Dear [Client Name],
This agreement outlines the scope of our website design and development services for your company. We will deliver [list of deliverables, e.g., a fully functional website with X pages, a content management system, etc.] according to the specifications outlined in [reference to a separate proposal or document]. The total project cost is [total project cost], payable in [payment schedule].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Web Design Company] -
Sample 5: Freelance Writing Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Agreement for Freelance Writing Services
Dear [Client Name],
This letter confirms my engagement to provide freelance writing services for [project name/type]. I will deliver [description of deliverables, e.g., blog posts, articles, website copy]. My rate is [rate per word/article/hour]. All work will be delivered by [deadline].
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 6: Real Estate Agent Engagement Letter (Seller)
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Exclusive Right to Sell Listing Agreement
Dear [Client Name],
This agreement grants us the exclusive right to sell your property located at [property address]. Our commission will be [commission percentage]. This agreement is valid for [duration of agreement].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Real Estate Agency] -
Sample 7: Marketing Consulting Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Subject: Marketing Consulting Services Engagement
Dear [Client Name],
This letter confirms our agreement to provide marketing consulting services including [list marketing services]. Our monthly retainer is [monthly retainer amount] plus expenses. The term of this engagement is [duration of engagement].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Marketing Agency] -
Sample 8: Interior Design Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Subject: Interior Design Services Agreement
Dear [Client Name],
This letter confirms our agreement to provide interior design services for your project located at [project address]. The scope of services includes [list of services, e.g., space planning, furniture selection, material sourcing]. Our fees will be calculated as [fee calculation method, e.g., hourly rate, percentage of project cost].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Interior Design Firm] -
Sample 9: Photography Services Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Photography Services Agreement
Dear [Client Name],
This agreement outlines the terms for photography services for [event/project name] on [date]. The fee for services is [fee amount] which includes [details, e.g., X hours of shooting, post-processing, digital files]. Copyright ownership remains with [photographer/client].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Photography Company] -
Sample 10: Software Development Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Software Development Agreement
Dear [Client Name],
This agreement outlines the terms for developing [Software Name]. The project scope includes [list of features and functionalities]. The total project cost is [total project cost], payable in installments as follows: [payment schedule].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Software Development Company] -
Sample 11: Event Planning Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Subject: Event Planning Services Agreement
Dear [Client Name],
This letter confirms our agreement to provide event planning services for your [event name], scheduled for [date]. Our services include [list of services, e.g., venue selection, vendor management, catering coordination]. Our fees are [fee structure details].
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Event Planning Company] -
Sample 12: Tutoring Services Engagement Letter
[Date]
[Client Name]
[Client Address]Tutoring Services Agreement
Dear [Client Name],
This agreement outlines the terms for tutoring services in [subject]. Sessions will be held [days of the week] at [time]. The hourly rate is [hourly rate]. This agreement can be terminated with [notice period] written notice.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Engagement letters are essential for establishing clear expectations and protecting the interests of both service providers and clients. The samples provided offer a starting point for crafting your own customized agreements. Remember to consult with legal counsel to ensure your engagement letters comply with all applicable laws and regulations and accurately reflect the specific terms of your services.