
Retainer Fees for Lawyers: How Retainers Work & Average Costs
Lawyer retainers typically run $1,000 to $5,000, sit in a client trust account under ABA Rule 1.15, and any unearned balance must be refunded. Here is how the mechanics actually work.
Expert advice for informed decisions

Lawyer retainers typically run $1,000 to $5,000, sit in a client trust account under ABA Rule 1.15, and any unearned balance must be refunded. Here is how the mechanics actually work.
Legal information only — not legal advice. We are lawyers, but we are not your lawyer. This blog provides general legal information for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this post (or contacting us through this site) does not create an attorney-client relationship.
No reliance / talk to your own attorney. Laws and procedures vary by jurisdiction and change over time. You should consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here.
No guarantees. Past results, examples, or outcomes discussed (if any) do not guarantee similar results. Every matter depends on specific facts.
Jurisdiction / advertising notice. This site may be considered attorney advertising in some jurisdictions. We practice only where we are properly admitted and do not seek to represent anyone in a jurisdiction where this communication would be unlawful or where we are not authorized.