If you`re a California-based attorney seeking a contingency fee agreement for your clients, you may be interested in a hybrid contingency fee agreement. This type of agreement offers attorneys the flexibility of both hourly billing and contingency fees, giving clients the best of both worlds.

A contingency fee agreement is a type of fee arrangement in which an attorney`s payment is based on the outcome of a case. This means that the attorney only gets paid if the case is won, and they receive a percentage of the settlement or verdict. This agreement is commonly used in personal injury cases where clients may not have the financial means to pay for legal services upfront.

On the other hand, hourly billing is a more traditional fee arrangement where attorneys bill their clients based on the time spent working on a case. The hourly rate typically varies depending on the experience and expertise of the attorney.

A hybrid contingency fee agreement combines both fee structures. This means that the attorney will bill their client at an hourly rate for the work done on the case, but will also receive a percentage of the settlement or verdict if the case is won. This arrangement can help attorneys cover their costs while also providing an incentive to win the case for their client.

A sample hybrid contingency fee agreement in California may include the following terms:

– The hourly rate to be charged by the attorney

– The percentage of the settlement or verdict to be paid to the attorney

– The scope of services to be provided by the attorney

– The conditions under which the contingency fee will be paid (i.e., only if the case is won)

– The client`s responsibilities, such as providing information and cooperating with the attorney

– The attorney`s responsibilities, such as keeping the client informed and providing competent representation

– The duration of the agreement and grounds for termination

It`s important to note that contingency fee agreements are subject to rules and regulations set forth by the California State Bar. Attorneys should always ensure that their fee arrangements comply with these rules to avoid any ethical or legal issues.

In conclusion, a hybrid contingency fee agreement can provide attorneys with the flexibility to bill their clients hourly while also offering the potential for a percentage of the settlement or verdict. If you`re interested in using this type of fee arrangement, consult with a legal professional experienced in California law to ensure compliance with all regulations.