Explain how the new request differs from the agreed work and discuss the options before going ahead. Set out any effect on fees and timing in plain language. Keep the client's interests and urgent needs in view, even when you cannot take on the extra task.
Understand the situation and prepare
Compare the request with the existing agreement. Say what you can do, what it would cost and whether another professional is needed. For example, reviewing a contract may not include negotiating it. Record the client's decision and update responsibilities. If you decline the work, address deadlines and any necessary handover rather than leaving the person unsure who will act.
Record the decision before the expanded task starts
Compare the new request with the accepted deliverables and instructions. Explain whether it is already included, needs clarification or requires a change. Address fees, timing and responsibilities together. A convenient message thread does not remove the need for an appropriate agreement or determine the professional duties that may arise.
A practical example
Illustrative example: A contract-review client asks you to negotiate the final version. Describe the proposed additional work and its implications, then use the applicable client-approval process. Until the change is agreed, do not describe the original review fee as having bought every negotiation or treat a tentative message as a completed acceptance.
Questions to settle before the next step
Ask whether another professional or a separate matter is needed and who owns any urgent step while the decision is pending. Retain the original scope, proposal and client's decision. If you decline, communicate the position clearly and consider necessary transition arrangements rather than leaving responsibility ambiguous.
Your next steps
- Compare the new request with the agreed scope.
- Explain the proposed change and its implications.
- Record informed instructions and fee arrangements.
- Update responsibilities and any handover plan.
How LegalMart can help
A clearer path from enquiry to engagement
The LegalMart request and offer give you a record of the original scope. Use that context to explain the difference and discuss an appropriate next step. A message asking for more work should not be mistaken for a complete new agreement.
Tools for the work behind the service
Workplace documents and communication can retain the revised instructions and agreed scope. Make the change clear to everyone working on the matter and confirm which record is current.
Use LegalMart for your next step
Have a question about a feature or its availability? Raise a question with support and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
What to keep in mind
LegalMart's scope-change controls record proposed work and the client's decision where available. They do not decide your professional duties or automatically authorize additional work merely because someone sent a message.
Helpful sources
Read more from these official sources. Rules and services can change; check the current information before acting.