Unearned Retainer Refund Request Generator

Generate a formal letter requesting return of an unearned retainer (advance fee, evergreen, flat fee, or true retainer) from a former attorney under Model Rules 1.5, 1.15, and 1.16(d). Fill in the form on the left, see the letter render live on the right, then copy or save as PDF. Self-contained, no signup, nothing leaves your browser.

Your role *

Individual former client Corporate principal of an entity (fill entity name below)

Recipient (Former Attorney)

Representation & Retainer

State of representation (drives rule citations) *

Most states have adopted the Model Rules verbatim or with minor variations. Verify the rule text for your state at the bar's site before sending.

Amount of retainer paid (USD) *

Estimated unearned amount (USD) *

You don't need to be exact; this is the figure you're asserting. The lawyer's burden is to produce records showing what was actually earned.

Type of retainer *

Classic advance fee (deposit against future hourly billing) Evergreen retainer (replenished as drawn down) Flat fee paid in advance True (general / availability) retainer — non-refundable

Has any accounting been provided? *

Yes, full itemized accounting Yes, partial accounting No accounting provided

Refund Logistics

Deadline (number of days) *

Default = 14 calendar days from today.

Refund delivery preference *

Cashier's check (mailed to address above) Wire transfer (I will provide instructions on confirmation) Standard mailed check

Unearned Retainer Refund Request Generator

Letter Inputs

Sender (You)

Recipient (Former Attorney)

Representation & Retainer

Refund Logistics

Live Preview

Where this fits in the broader methodology