Episode Details
Back to EpisodesBehind the Case Files - Episode 2 | What Did We Agree To | Understanding Retainers
Description
Behind the Case Files | What Did We Agree To | Understanding Retainers
What does it actually mean when a lawyer says they've been retained?
In a law office, we hear the word retainer all the time. But being retained, signing a retainer agreement, and paying retainer funds are three different things. And understanding those differences matters.
In this episode of Sister-in-Law: The Paralegal Journey – Behind the Case Files, we are exploring what retainer agreements really mean, why the Law Society of Alberta recommends them, and what happens when the work being performed no longer matches the original agreement.
Through practical examples, Alberta case law and disciplinary decisions, we look at the important role legal assistants and paralegals play in supporting clear client expectations and effective file management.
Because preparing a retainer agreement is one thing. Understanding what it means is another.
📄 Download the free Episode 2 Educational Workbook here.
🗳️ I'm also participating in the Top Host competition! You can vote daily until October 15. Here is the voting link: https://tophost.org/2026/tara-edwards.
About Sister-in-Law: The Paralegal Journey
Sister-in-Law: The Paralegal Journey is a Canadian podcast hosted by Tara Edwards, an Alberta Registered Paralegal. Each episode features conversations with legal assistants, paralegals, lawyers, educators, and industry leaders from across Canada who share practical advice, career insights, and real-world experiences.
Whether you work in law, work alongside the legal profession, are thinking about a career in this space, or simply want an honest look at the paralegal journey, you're in the right place. Because every experienced paralegal was once the person asking their first question. Here, we're all about learning, growing, and supporting one another along the way. So, welcome to the conversation.
⭐ Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
💼 Connect with Tara on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tara-edwards-vandenberg-arp-78607033