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RETAINERS A client is often requested to make a deposit for security against fees and expenses (a retainer). A retainer is deposited to the firm's retainer account. Your deposit (in the amount set forth in the engagement letter) will be held in our retainer account and may be applied to us for any fees or expenses that have been billed and not promptly paid. In the event that we apply a portion of this deposit, you will restore the deposit account upon our request. The firm normally applies the balance of the deposit to the client's final invoice and returns the remaining balance, if any, to the client. Paying a retainer does not relieve the client of the obligation to pay monthly invoices. The firm's current practice is to place retainers in the IOL T A account. In such case, any interest earned would be applied in accordance with IOL T A requirements; otherwise, any interest earned on a retainer account will belong to the firm. BILLINGS The firm submits an invoice to the client on a monthly basis. The invoice contains a statement of the services performed and expenses incurred. At the client's request, additional information can be included on the invoice. Our invoices are due on receipt and are past due after thirty days. Please direct any questions regarding any invoice to our office manager or the lead attorney. If an account becomes more than 30 days past due, the firm reserves the right to suspend further work until the account is brought current. If an invoice remains unpaid, the firm may withdraw from further representation of the client. If insurance coverage applies to the services to be performed by the firm, primary responsibility for payment remains with the client. TERMINATION OF THE ENGAGEMENT After providing written notice to us, you may end our engagement at any time. If you terminate the engagement, all fees and expenses accrued before the firm receives notice of the termination are immediately due to the firm. In the event of a contingent fee matter, you will still be liable for the contracted- for contingent fee amount in the event of settlement or recovery [these provisions will be described in greater detail in the contingent fee engagement letter]. You are also responsible for any expenses in connection with the transfer of the matter to other counsel. Subject to the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct, the firm also may terminate the engagement at any time. These rules permit or sometimes require withdrawal. Before this occurs, the firm will provide the client with written notice. In like manner, you will remain obligated to pay any fees or expenses incurred through the time you receive our notice terminating this engagement. F:\Carson- TML-2125 .00 I \Ccrrespondence\englgementltr.doc