Retainer
/rɪˈteɪnər/
Definitions
- (n.) A fee paid in advance to secure professional services, especially legal.
The client paid a retainer to the attorney before the case began.
- (n.) A person who serves or is retained by a superior, such as a servant or attendant in historical or legal contexts.
The retainer served the noble family for many years.
Forms
- retainers
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal usage, 'retainer' commonly refers to an advance payment for legal services, and clarity in retainer agreements helps avoid disputes over fees.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.