How do retainers work?

[taro]

I paid an attorney $1000.00 retainer to do non specific work. He recently sent me a bill for $600. Does this fee come out of the retainer or does the retainer remain as a sort of guarantee.

[ironichope]

In my experience, the attorney sent an itemized bill showing deductions from the retainer. Assuming a balance exists on the retainer, the bottom line should read that you own $0. So, does this describe your situation? Look carefully.

[las365]

It depends on your contract with the attorney. Some retainers are "evergreen," that is, while the attorney may use it to cover the billed fees, the client still pays the bill in order to replenish the retainer to its original amount.