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Retainer Agreement Template for South Africa

A comprehensive legal agreement governed by South African law that establishes an ongoing professional relationship between a service provider and a client. The agreement outlines the terms of regular service provision, including scope of services, retainer fees, payment terms, and service levels. It incorporates key requirements from South African legislation including the Consumer Protection Act and, where applicable, the Legal Practice Act, while ensuring compliance with POPIA for data protection and FICA requirements for professional services.

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What is a Retainer Agreement?

This Retainer Agreement is designed for use in the South African legal context where a professional service provider wishes to establish a formal ongoing relationship with a client. It is particularly suited for situations where services are provided on a regular basis and where a predictable fee structure is desired. The agreement comprehensively addresses the scope of services, payment terms, service levels, and compliance requirements specific to South African law. It includes provisions for consumer protection, data privacy, and professional regulations while maintaining flexibility to accommodate various service types. This document is essential for professional service providers who want to formalize long-term client relationships while ensuring legal compliance and clear service expectations.

What sections should be included in a Retainer Agreement?

1. Parties: Identification and details of the service provider and the client

2. Background: Context of the agreement and brief description of the parties' intention to enter into a retainer arrangement

3. Definitions: Definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Appointment and Scope of Services: Details of the service provider's appointment and the agreed scope of services covered under the retainer

5. Duration and Termination: Term of the agreement, renewal provisions, and termination rights

6. Fees and Payment Terms: Retainer fee structure, payment schedule, and billing procedures

7. Service Provider's Obligations: Key responsibilities and commitments of the service provider

8. Client's Obligations: Key responsibilities and commitments of the client

9. Confidentiality: Provisions for handling confidential information

10. Intellectual Property: Ownership and usage rights of intellectual property

11. General Provisions: Standard legal provisions including governing law, notices, and entire agreement

What sections are optional to include in a Retainer Agreement?

1. Additional Services: Section defining services outside the retainer scope and associated fees - use when the service provider offers services beyond the standard retainer

2. Service Levels: Specific performance metrics and response times - include for technical or specialized professional services

3. Data Protection: Detailed POPIA compliance provisions - essential when personal information processing is involved

4. Non-Solicitation: Restrictions on hiring or soliciting staff - relevant for professional services firms

5. Conflict of Interest: Provisions dealing with potential conflicts - particularly important for legal or consulting services

6. Insurance: Professional indemnity and other insurance requirements - include for high-risk or regulated services

7. Force Majeure: Provisions for unforeseen circumstances - particularly relevant post-COVID

What schedules should be included in a Retainer Agreement?

1. Schedule 1: Fee Schedule: Detailed breakdown of retainer fees, hourly rates, and additional charges

2. Schedule 2: Scope of Services: Detailed description of services included in the retainer

3. Schedule 3: Service Levels: Detailed service level specifications and performance metrics

4. Schedule 4: Key Personnel: List of key team members assigned to the client

5. Appendix A: Standard Terms and Conditions: Detailed standard terms and conditions referenced in the main agreement

6. Appendix B: Compliance Requirements: Specific regulatory or industry compliance requirements

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Genie AI | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents

Jurisdiction

South Africa

Publisher

Genie AI

Document Type

Agreement Contract

Cost

Free to use

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