What is the difference between a retainer and an advance?
Sometimes, there is no difference; it depends upon the usage. An advance payment is generally a payment required in advance of legal services being performed. When services are performed, the advance payment is applied against the invoice balance. A retainer can be a fixed payment for a certain consistent volume of services, or it is sometimes traditionally described as paying a certain amount per month for an unlimited volume of services. Sometimes an advance is commonly described as a retainer or an advance retainer. At our law firm, we generally take modest advances for new clients, as well as all clients for litigation matters. The firm also has retainers for guaranteed volumes of legal services. Just ask about payment structures, and we will do our best to tailor a payment program for you to get the services you need for your venture. Contact us for details.
