Termination of Services Policy

This Termination Policy governs the circumstances under which Project SALAM Legal Aid Services (“SALAM”, “we”, “our”) may suspend or terminate legal services provided to any client (“Client”, “you”). By engaging our services, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms:

1. Grounds for Termination by SALAM

SALAM reserves the right to suspend or terminate legal services with immediate effect if:

Non-Payment: The Client fails to pay agreed fees, retainers, or subscription charges in accordance with the fee agreement.
Concealment of Information: The Client knowingly withholds, misrepresents, or refuses to disclose material facts, documents, or evidence necessary for proper legal representation.
Failing to Produce Evidence: If the Client fails, neglects, or delays in providing essential evidence or records needed for the case, SALAM may notify the Client of the deficiency. Where such failure continues and materially affects the progress or effectiveness of representation, SALAM reserves the right to withdraw from the matter in order to avoid prejudice to the case and to the Firm’s professional obligations.
Criminal or Unethical Conduct: If, during the course of representation, SALAM becomes aware that the Client, in relation to the case or matter at hand, is involved in any form of unlawful, fraudulent, or criminal activity, SALAM reserves the absolute right to terminate services immediately
Unresponsiveness: The Client repeatedly fails to communicate, provide instructions, or respond to correspondence within a reasonable time, making representation impracticable.
Conflict of Interest: Where continued representation creates a professional or ethical conflict as per the Pakistan Bar Council’s rules or the Qanun-e-Shahadat Order, 1984.
Abusive Conduct: If the Client engages in harassment, threats, intimidation, or inappropriate behaviour towards SALAM’s lawyers, staff, or representatives.
Breach of Policies: Failure to comply with SALAM’s Confidentiality & Privilege Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, or other agreed terms of engagement.

2. Consequences of Termination

Upon termination, SALAM will:
- Provide notice of termination in writing.
- Return original documents provided by the Client (subject to clearance of outstanding dues).
- Retain case files, notes, and related documents in accordance with applicable laws and retention policies.
The Client will:
- Remain responsible for all outstanding invoices, fees, and expenses incurred up to the date of termination.
- Be responsible for securing alternative legal representation if required.

4. Effect on Sub-Judice Matters

If services are terminated while a case or matter is sub-judice, SALAM shall not be liable for any consequences, delays, or adverse outcomes resulting from the termination.
In litigation or time-sensitive matters, clients are urged to arrange alternate representation promptly to avoid prejudice.

5. Reservation of Rights

SALAM reserves all rights to protect its reputation, professional obligations, and legal standing, and may take legal action where necessary to recover dues or address misuse of services.

6. Client’s Right to Terminate

The Client may terminate SALAM’s services only by giving prior written notice. If the Client intends to engage another lawyer, SALAM must be notified in advance. Termination will be effective only after such notice is acknowledged by SALAM, and subject to clearance of outstanding dues. Case files or related documents will be released strictly upon proper and timely notification, and SALAM reserves the right to retain work product or privileged material created during representation.

Acknowledgement & Consent

By signing below (or by continuing to engage SALAM’s services through subscription or retainer), the Client acknowledges having read, understood, and agreed to this Termination of Services Policy.