meaning of limited representation

limited scope representation

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Limited scope representation is when a lawyer agrees to take on only some part of a client’s matter. In the litigation context, attorneys providing limited scope representation must often file a notice with the court that they are representing the client only for a limited purpose. 

Limited scope representation often arises when parties want to represent themselves for their matter in general, but require an attorney for certain matters. Parties will often retain attorneys for limited scope representation in divorces . For example, in In re Marriage of Tsatryan , in the California Court of Appeals, one party filed a notice of limited scope representation to have an attorney represent her only for matters involving division of property and a request for restraining orders . 

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What is Limited Representation?

Some states allow limited representation or limited scope representation, which may also be called unbundled services, and Florida is one of those states.

Limited representation is when your lawyer handles certain aspects of your case, and you do the rest. When your lawyer agrees to provide you with limited scope representation, it means they will handle specific legal tasks for you but will not take on the responsibility of the entire case.

Limited scope representation saves money and allows people who would otherwise not be able to afford a lawyer to benefit from the services of an attorney. 

Some of the benefits of limited representation include:

• Legal costs are more affordable because you are only paying for what you need.
• The services can be customized based on your specific needs and case.
• It gives you more freedom to control your case.
• You have the option to use limited scope representation in contested or uncontested family law cases. 

With limited representation, your attorney agrees to handle certain aspects of your case, and you will handle the rest. For example, you may have your lawyer draft a petition for divorce, and you file it with the courts.

What Does Limited Scope Representation Include?

Some things your family law attorney can help you with include:

• Strategy and courtroom coaching.
• Advice on procedure.
• Negotiations.
• Guidance on how to handle tricky legal situations.
• Document drafting and review.
• Mediation. 

Some examples of limited representation would be:

• Your lawyer provides you with ongoing advice and strategy coaching throughout your entire case, but you file paperwork and attend all hearings and courtroom appointments yourself.
• You hire your attorney to draft the marital settlement agreement, but you file it yourself and appear in court alone.
• Or conversely, you prepare the paperwork for your case but ask your lawyer to appear in court and represent you. 
• You hire a lawyer to help with mediation to work out the details between you and the other party, but you file the agreement with the courts yourself.

How Does it Work?

When you discuss limited representation with your attorney, you will work up an agreement that stipulates exactly what the lawyer will be doing for you and what you will handle yourself. Therefore, it’s important to understand all the aspects of your case and where your responsibility lies.

Limited scope representation is great for simple cases and those where you feel comfortable handling certain items. However, it is not ideal for complex cases or those with a substantial degree of conflict. 

Limited scope representation allows Yaffa Family Law Group to help as many clients as we can. Keep in mind this type of representation is not just for divorce; it can also be used for child modification custody cases and post/prenuptial agreements.  

If you need assistance with your family law matters, contact a family law attorney today and schedule a complimentary strategy session.

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limited scope representation - Meaning in Law and Legal Documents, Examples and FAQs

Limited scope representation, also known as 'partial legal help,' allows an attorney to assist with specific aspects of a legal matter rather than taking on the entire case, providing affordable legal services for those who cannot afford full representation.

In normal language you would also say " partial legal help " instead of " limited scope representation "

Need help understanding your legal documents?

What does "limited scope representation" mean in legal documents?

Limited scope representation is a legal term that refers to a situation where a lawyer agrees to handle only a specific part of a client's legal matter, rather than the entire case. This is different from a lawyer taking on a client's full case and representing them from start to finish.

In limited scope representation, the lawyer and the client agree on the specific tasks the lawyer will handle, such as drafting a contract, negotiating a settlement, or appearing in court for a particular hearing. The client is responsible for handling the rest of the legal matter on their own.

This type of arrangement can be beneficial for clients who want to save money on legal fees or who feel confident in handling certain aspects of their case themselves. It allows them to get the help they need from a lawyer for specific tasks, without having to pay for full representation.

Limited scope representation is commonly used in divorce cases, where one party might hire a lawyer to handle the division of property, while the other party handles child custody and support issues on their own. It can also be used in other types of legal matters, such as real estate transactions or small business contracts.

It's important to note that even with limited scope representation, the lawyer still has a professional and ethical obligation to provide competent and diligent service to the client within the agreed-upon scope of the representation.

What are some examples of "limited scope representation" in legal contracts?

Divorce Agreement: "The attorney will represent the client only in matters related to the division of marital assets and debts, and will not be involved in child custody or support negotiations."

Residential Lease Agreement: "The landlord's attorney will provide limited scope representation to review the lease agreement and negotiate any necessary changes, but will not be involved in any ongoing landlord-tenant disputes."

Business Partnership Agreement: "The business partners have agreed to retain a lawyer for limited scope representation to draft the partnership agreement, but will handle all other legal matters related to the business operations themselves."

Estate Planning: "The attorney will provide limited scope representation to draft the client's will and power of attorney documents, but will not be involved in the administration of the estate after the client's passing."

Real Estate Transaction: "The buyer's attorney will provide limited scope representation to review the purchase contract and negotiate any necessary changes, but will not be involved in the closing process or any post-closing matters."

Trademark Registration: "The client has retained a trademark attorney for limited scope representation to file the trademark application and respond to any office actions from the trademark office, but will handle any subsequent trademark enforcement or litigation matters themselves."

Mediation Agreement: "The parties have agreed to retain a mediator for limited scope representation to facilitate the mediation process and help them reach a settlement agreement, but the mediator will not provide any legal advice or representation beyond the mediation."

FAQs about "limited scope representation"

What is limited scope representation.

Limited scope representation, also known as "unbundled legal services," is a type of legal arrangement where a lawyer provides specific, limited legal services to a client, rather than handling the entire legal matter from start to finish. This means the client is responsible for certain tasks, while the lawyer focuses on the specific legal services the client has requested.

What are some examples of limited scope representation?

Some common examples of limited scope representation include:

• Reviewing and advising on a contract or legal document
• Providing legal research and analysis on a specific issue
• Appearing in court for a single hearing or proceeding
• Drafting a specific legal document, such as a will or lease agreement
• Negotiating a settlement or agreement on the client's behalf

Who can benefit from limited scope representation?

Limited scope representation can be beneficial for individuals who:

• Have a limited budget for legal services
• Only need help with a specific legal task or issue
• Want to be more involved in the handling of their legal matter
• Require the expertise of a lawyer for a particular aspect of their case

How is limited scope representation different from traditional legal representation?

In traditional legal representation, the lawyer handles all aspects of the client's legal matter, from start to finish. In limited scope representation, the client and lawyer agree on the specific legal services the lawyer will provide, and the client is responsible for the remaining tasks and decisions.

What are the advantages of limited scope representation?

The main advantages of limited scope representation include:

• Lower legal costs for the client
• More control and involvement for the client in their legal matter
• Ability to access legal expertise for specific issues or tasks
• Flexibility to choose the legal services that are most important to the client

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Limited Scope Representation

Topics on this page:, what is limited scope representation.

• Examples of services

How does it work?

• What to ask my attorney
• Benefits of limited scope representation
• Differences between limited and full scope representation
• Finding an attorney

A cost-effective approach to getting legal representation.

Limited scope representation is when you and your attorney agree that the attorney will provide some, but not all, of the work involved in your legal matter. You are still responsible for completing all of the tasks that the attorney did not agree to provide. Limited scope representation is also called “unbundling” or “discrete task representation.”

Read the Rules: Md. Rules 2-131  and  3-131

What are some examples of services that an attorney can offer me on a limited scope basis? 

Preparation and advice

• Consultations
• Legal advice
• Legal research
• Investigation
• Negotiations

Document drafting and review

• Service of process
• Pre-trial motions
• Discovery responses
• Financial affidavit

One-Time Representation in Court or for Discovery

• Court hearing
• Status conference
• Settlement conference
• Motion hearing

Once you and your attorney agree upon what tasks the attorney will perform, you will enter into a written agreement, signed by both of you that sets out in detail the agreed-upon tasks to be completed by the attorney. This agreement must be signed before any legal services are provided. The attorney will only charge you to perform the specific legal tasks that are contained in the written agreement. You must pay the agreed upon fee before the attorney will provide the services. In addition to the representation agreement, you will need to sign an  Acknowledgement of Scope of Limited Representation . That document will tell the court exactly what role the attorney will play in the case.

If you want additional legal services that are not contained in your written agreement, you and your attorney must enter into a new, signed agreement that specifically sets out the additional services agreed upon by you and your attorney. 

What kind of questions should I ask my attorney about limited scope representation?

You and your attorney should have a thorough discussion about all aspects of your case and agree on your respective responsibilities. Among the issues you should discuss are:

• Do you offer limited scope representation and how experienced are you in doing it?
• Is my case a good fit for limited scope representation?
• What tasks should you, as the attorney complete? What tasks should I take on?
• Who will talk with the other side?
• How do we handle emergencies that may arise?
• Who will draft documents for the court?
• Who will appear in court or at mediation or settlement conferences?
• What do you charge for this type of representation? When do I pay?

How do I benefit from limited scope representation?

You can get help with parts of your case that are too difficult or complicated for you to handle on your own. You may not have enough money to hire an attorney to handle your entire case. With limited scope representation, you can hire an attorney for only parts of your case and limit the amount of money you need to pay for the attorney’s work. 

How is limited scope representation different from traditional full scope representation?

In traditional full scope legal representation, you hire an attorney to handle all of the work in your legal matter, from start to finish. In limited scope representation, also known as unbundled legal services, you hire the attorney to handle some, but not all, of the work involved in your legal matter with the understanding that you are responsible for completing all of the tasks that the attorney did not agree to provide.

How is limited scope representation similar to full scope representation?

Limited scope representation does not mean that the attorney is providing you with second-rate service.  Limited scope representation is the practice of law and permitted by the rules governing attorney conduct, the same as full scope representation.  Once you and your attorney agree on which legal services the attorney will provide to you, the attorney’s duty of care and ethical responsibilities for those limited services are the same as they would be if the attorney was providing you with those same professional services in the context of full representation. 

How do I find an attorney who offers limited scope representation?

Civil Justice, Inc. operates an attorney referral service that can refer you to an attorney who offers limited scope representation in areas such as family law and consumer law.  You can reach Civil Justice at (410) 706-0174, option 1, or you can complete an online intake form .

Checklist for self-represented persons working with attorneys

Hire someone with experience  - If an attorney has little or no experience in the type of case that you have, it will be very hard for that attorney to give you advice specific to that type of case. The attorney has a duty to warn you about related issues or problems. The attorney cannot warn you about possibilities that they are not able to predict (based on past experience). Ask for a referral.

Be careful about looking for limited representation in an emergency  - Plan in advance for hiring an attorney. A rush for a "quick document review" is much riskier if the attorney will only be involved in that brief transaction. There is no chance to fix any bad advice. Consider asking the attorney to help you move the deadline. This will give the attorney adequate time for review or representation.

Make sure you and the attorney are clear about precisely what services the attorney will perform for you, and the fees that you will pay for those services – Attorneys in Maryland are required to describe, in a written agreement that you must sign before work will begin, exactly what services the attorney will provide, and what tasks remain your responsibility.  This agreement will also state the fees for the services that the attorney agrees to provide.  There should be no confusion about what the attorney is doing and what you are doing.  If you have any questions, make sure that you ask the attorney to clarify before you sign the agreement.  Remember that an agreement for limited scope services not only limits the fees that you pay, but that it also limits the services that the attorney will perform.    For example  - If the attorney agrees to review a document that does not mean that the attorney will help in a negotiation. Read the Rule: Maryland Rules of Professional Conduct 19-301.2c

Document all of the decisions –  This is good advice in any type of legal work. But in “unbundled” cases, it is even more important. Make sure that both of you sign off on any changes to the initial agreement.

Ask for the "why"  - Limited scope cases cases are a partnership with the attorney. You need to understand the "big picture" of what is likely to happen in your case – not just the piece that you ask an attorney to review.

Understand if the attorney says that certain tasks are too technical or difficult  - Some tasks require the expertise of an attorney.

Make sure you know when the attorney’s involvement has ended  - There should be no surprises either to you or the attorney. If your case involves a series of steps, ask the attorney to confirm the end of their involvement in a matter in writing.

Hiring and Working with Your Lawyer  from the Maryland Courts

Is this legal advice?

This site offers legal information, not legal advice.  We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information and to clearly explain your options.  However we do not provide legal advice - the application of the law to your individual circumstances. For legal advice, you should consult an attorney.  The Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, a court-related agency of the Maryland Judiciary, sponsors this site.  In the absence of file-specific attribution or copyright, the Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library may hold the copyright to parts of this website. You are free to copy the information for your own use or for other non-commercial purposes with the following language “Source: Maryland's People’s Law Library – www.peoples-law.org . © Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, 2024.”

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Understanding Limited Scope Representation in CA Family Law

It is not uncommon for people facing family-related legal matters to wonder whether they need legal counsel to navigate these issues. Family law matters can vary greatly in terms of scope and impact. You could be facing an intense divorce that is bitterly contested and bound to involve highly complex and sensitive issues, or you may simply need a bit of legal advice as you prepare to negotiate a prenuptial contract or alimony agreement. It’s vital for people facing family law matters to understand what limited scope representation means and the benefit of choosing this legal counsel option for your case.

What Are Limited Scope Legal Services?

Limited scope legal representation or limited scope counsel is a simple term used to describe any situation in which an attorney provides a client with professional legal services but only for a small section of their current legal issue. For example, if a person is divorcing, they could hire a limited scope representation attorney to help them with just property division or just their child support agreement. In this way, they wouldn’t need to pay for full representation for the entire case.

Think of limited scope legal representation as an a la carte option for legal services. Instead of buying the full spread, you can pick exactly what you want and save money while doing it.

How Does Limited-Scope Representation Work in CA Family Law?

Family legal matters are often multifaceted issues, and limited scope legal counsel is particularly well-suited to family law for this reason. It is not uncommon for parties involved in a family law matter to be willing to agree on some facets of the matter but not others. When you are in this type of situation, consulting a limited scope representation attorney can clarify your position and the challenges you are likely to face in the matter.

Consider a divorce case in which the divorcing spouses can agree on property division, spousal maintenance, and other facets of their divorce, but not child custody. It would be possible for either parent to hire a limited scope representation attorney to assist them with the child custody determination.

When Do I Need Help From a Limited Scope Attorney?

It is not uncommon for people to enter legal proceedings thinking they can handle them on their own, only for them to encounter significant obstacles they do not know how to approach. It is typically best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible once you determine that you are certainly headed for family law proceedings. Your attorney can review your situation and help you determine the scope of legal services that would be best suited to assist you.

If you are facing a family law matter and are confident in your ability to navigate some, but not all, of the facets of the matter on your own, then it is probably best to consult with a limited scope attorney as soon as possible.

Issues a Limited Scope Lawyer Can Handle

When you are involved in a family law matter, a limited scope attorney can provide several valuable legal services based on your unique needs:

• Document preparation . Many family law proceedings involve substantial amounts of paperwork, and even small errors can lead to big delays in your case. A limited scope attorney can handle your document preparation so you can rest assured that your paperwork is accurate and complete.
• Courtroom logistics . Your case will likely involve court appearances, and a limited scope attorney can both handle your scheduling as well as prepare you for specific appearances and proceedings.
• Single-issue representation . Your divorce could include issues like child custody, property division, and alimony, but you may only need legal representation for one of them.
• Legal consultation . It is not uncommon for people facing family legal matters to simply require professional legal counsel. A limited scope attorney can provide you with detailed and accurate legal information and/or clarify legal statutes as you prepare yourself for your case.
• Courtroom representation . A case may only require a single courtroom appearance, but it is still best to have legal counsel on your side in this situation. Your limited scope attorney can provide baseline legal representation for exactly as long as you need it in this situation.

How to get Limited Scope Representation

These are some of the ways a limited scope attorney can assist their client with cost-effective legal representation. If you are heading for any type of family law matter but do not believe your case warrants full representation, consult with an experienced limited scope attorney to determine the best type of representation for your needs.

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Category Archives: limited representation

Ethical guidelines for offering unbundled legal services.

Instead of offering a complete set of services from start to finish, the lawyer provides specific, limited-scope representation to clients who can’t afford (or don’t want) full representation.

Unbundled services help pro se litigants and others with limited means gain access to legal assistance they would not otherwise have. It also enables lawyers — particularly solo and small firm practitioners – to compete with big, traditional firms as well as online legal services like  LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer .

The American Bar Association (ABA) encourages lawyers to offer unbundled services or limited representation, when appropriate.  Most states have adopted the ABA Model Rule 1.2(c) or a similar rule allowing limited representation.

Minnesota fully adopted the rule, which states, “A lawyer may limit the scope of the representation if the limitation is reasonable under the circumstances and the client gives informed consent.”

Despite widespread support for unbundled services from the ABA and many state bars, lawyers need to consider the ethical implications when providing limited representation.

Earlier this month, at an MSBA-sponsored CLE program ,  Patrick Burns, First Assistant Director of the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility, discussed ethical considerations and best practices in limited scope engagements. They include the following:

1. Limited representation creates an attorney-client relationship between you and the client

Delivering limited representation to a person — even it involves a single instance of giving brief advice — creates an attorney-client relationship. If it is reasonably foreseeable that a person will rely on your advice, an attorney-client relationship is created. This means the ethical responsibilities of competence, diligence, confidentiality and loyalty apply in limited scope engagements.

Rule 4.2, MPRC prohibits communication about the subject of representation with a person you know to be represented by an attorney. Even when the person is receiving only limited representation from another attorney, the best practice is to communicate directly with that attorney until the attorney consents to your direct contact with the person.

Conflict-of-interest issues cannot be ignored in limited representation. The lawyer or law firm must run conflicts-of-interest checks against clients receiving full representation as well as those receiving limited representation.

2. The limits of representation must be reasonable under the circumstances of the case

The lawyer must evaluate the nature of the client’s matter, the client’s sophistication and abilities, and whether the limited scope will actually benefit the client.

Even if the representation is limited, it must always be competent and thorough, in accordance with Rule 1.1, MRPC. The lawyer needs to consider the substantive law involved. If a matter is so complex that full representation is required, the lawyer should avoid giving unbundled services. The lawyer also has to carefully assess the client’s needs and objectives, from the get-go, to decide whether full representation or limited scope engagement is appropriate.

Limited-scope representation is less common in litigation cases, is problematic in criminal defense and complex family law matters, and is inappropriate in consumer bankruptcy proceedings.

In other cases, it’s reasonable to provide limited scope engagement to help clients with a specific part of what they are trying to accomplish.  In immigration practice, limited representation is appropriate when parts of the case can be competently handled by a sophisticated and capable client, and the limited scope would benefit the client.

For instance, in a marriage-based green card case, an immigration attorney could start by asking the U.S. citizen petitioner and her foreign national spouse detailed questions about their marriage and the spouse’s immigration history and whether he has ever been arrested, charged or convicted of a crime.  After carefully determining eligibility, the lawyer then advises the clients to move forward with the application.

To save money, the clients might want to prepare the paperwork on their own, but then have the lawyer review it for accuracy and completeness before they file it with USCIS.  The lawyer might also counsel the clients on what to expect at the green card interview, but not represent them at the interview. Assuming there are no red flags (e.g., marital separation, criminal convictions, fraud or willful misrepresentation to obtain immigration benefits), limited representation can work in such cases.

3. The client must consent to limited representation

The client must give informed consent to the limited scope of the representation. The definition of “informed consent” is set forth in Rule 1.0(f), MRPC, which states: “’Informed consent’ denotes the agreement by a person to a proposed course of conduct after the lawyer has communicated adequate information and explanation about the material risks of and reasonably available alternatives to the proposed course of conduct.”

Burns advises lawyers to communicate three key things to the client: a) what services the lawyer will provide to the client, b) what services the lawyer will not provide to the client, and c) what the client will need to do on his own once the lawyer completes his part of the work.

Lawyers also ought to communicate the benefits of full representation and the risks of limited representation. The client needs to acknowledge that he is responsible for all other tasks and issues, which are not included in the limited scope, to complete the matter.

While Rule 1.5(b), MRPC, does not require a written retainer agreement, Burns recommends having one, especially when the representation is limited in scope. The scope of representation and rate or fee must also be communicated before or within reasonable time after beginning the representation.

4.  Limited scope engagements may include ghostwriting 

The Minnesota ethics rules do not address ghostwriting documents, including pleadings, for clients. Although ghostwriting is criticized for deceiving the court, circumventing Rule 11 of Civil Procedure, and unfairly providing advantage to pro se litigants, it is permissible in limited scope engagements.

Burns notes that lawyers who assist pro se litigants by ghostwriting pleadings must ensure that the pleading is not frivolous and has a good faith basis in fact and law. The lawyer is still on the hook for Rule 11 sanctions for drafting the pleading, even when he doesn’t sign it, if such a pleading otherwise warrants such discipline.

Lawyers may indicate they helped in drafting the document, but the client can make changes, take your name off, and has control over what gets filed with the court.

Choosing to not disclose your legal services does not amount to an intent to deceive the court. A pro se litigant’s receiving legal assistance behind the scenes is not material to the merits of the case. But the court may ask the client who helped in drafting the document and could call you in to describe the circumstances of the drafting. So keep a copy of the document in the form you delivered it to the client.

5. Do not ask for a malpractice waiver

It might be tempting to ask clients to waive in advance any possible malpractice claims that may arise from limited representation. But from a practical and client relations perspective, it’s better not to ask for one.

Rule 1.8(h), MRPC sets forth the steps lawyers must take to obtain an agreement limiting malpractice liability. The client must have independent counsel in making such an agreement. It is very unlikely that independent counsel will advise the client to prospectively limit their malpractice claims. Keep in mind also that malpractice claims are different from ethics complaints.

The best practice is to not commit malpractice! Fulfill your ethical responsibilities in limited representation just as you would in full representation. Just be clear on what your duties are and what they are not. You cannot be found negligent for failing to perform tasks that you had no duty to complete.

In general, limited representation is favored by the ABA, state bars and ethics committees. It increases access to legal assistance and advice, especially for those who cannot afford full representation. Offering a la Carte or unbundled legal services is also good for business. It enables lawyers to compete with big firms and online legal services.

But lawyers must consider the ethical implications when providing unbundled legal services to avoid harming the client’s interests and facing an ethics complaint or malpractice claim.

This article provides general information only. Do not consider it as legal advice for any individual case or situation.   The sharing or receipt of this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.

The author, Dyan Williams, is admitted to the Minnesota state bar and focuses on the Minnesota Rules of Professional Conduct in her articles.  Check your individual state rules of professional conduct, regulations, ethics opinions and case precedents, instead of relying on this article for specific guidance. 

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Limited Scope Representation

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Attorneys are expensive, and legal services' costs have risen over the past few years. Legal problems do not disappear simply because a person cannot afford to hire an attorney. Limited scope representation is one possible solution. Learn about it in this article.

What is limited scope representation?

Limited scope representation is a way to hire a lawyer to handle some parts, but not all, of your case. In limited scope representation, you and the lawyer agree on which parts you will hire the lawyer to do, and which parts you will do on your own.

What does “unbundled services” or “unbundling” mean?

Unbundled services, or unbundling, is simply another term for limited scope representation. It is a service where a lawyer is hired to do some parts, but not all, of your case.

Will I save money hiring a lawyer for limited scope representation?

Yes! It is almost always more affordable to hire a lawyer to help you with a part of your case, instead of all of it. For example, you might do the work on your case by yourself (including going to court), other than paying a lawyer to:

• Review your court paperwork that you put together, and give you feedback
• Give you one or two hours of legal advice
• Explain a contract or other legal papers to you before you sign it
• Prepare a checklist for you on how you can represent yourself in a case
• Write a letter for you, or
• Coach you on negotiation strategies and trial tips.

How much does limited scope representation cost?

The cost of limited scope representation depends on which lawyer you hire and how much work you hire the lawyer to do.

Below are some questions to talk with the lawyer about regarding fees:

• Talk about whether you can hire the lawyer for a “flat fee," or an hourly fee. Flat fees are usually easier to plan for.
• It can be a good idea to ask for a “not to exceed” agreement with the lawyer. Let the lawyer know that you have limited funds to pay a lawyer, and you cannot spend more than X (name your budget) dollar amount on the case.
• Ask if the lawyer is willing to work on a reduced-fee agreement. Some lawyers will agree to perform work at a reduced cost as a courtesy or as a way to give back to the community.

Make sure to get a clear, written agreement that details the cost of the work, the specific parts of the case you are hiring the lawyer to do, and the specific parts you will do.

Should I talk to a few lawyers before deciding which lawyer to work with?

Yes. It is a good idea to interview a few lawyers to decide which lawyer you want to hire for limited scope representation. Here are some questions you may want to ask the lawyer to help you decide:

• Can you tell me about your experience with cases like mine?
• What counties do you regularly work in?
• Have you had cases in the court that my case will be in?
• What has been your experience with judges in cases like mine?
• What are appropriate expectations for me to have in this case?
• Have you helped clients with limited scope representation before?
• Can you tell me which parts of my case you feel I could handle on my own?
• Do you offer any discounts (cash, reduced fee, etc.)?
• Do you offer payment plans?
• If I hire you, what is the expected timeline for when you could start and finish the work?

When should I not use limited scope representation?

Not all cases are right for limited scope representation. Some cases are better served if the lawyer handles the entire process.

You should talk with a lawyer with experience in limited scope representation to see if it makes sense for your case.

In addition, if you learn that your case has become more complex than expected, you may need to make an agreement with your lawyer to switch from limited scope representation to full legal representation.

Where can I learn more about limited scope representation?

The following links have more information about limited scope representation: 

• Texas Access to Justice Commission’s page, Limited Scope Representation
• TexasCourtHelp.org’s YouTube video: How Do I Find a Lawyer?
• Texas State Law Library’s guide, Limited Scope Representation

How can I find a lawyer that offers limited scope representation?

Use our Legal Help Directory tool to connect with a legal aid organization in your area. You will need to ask if the lawyer or legal organization offers limited scope representation.

The State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral and Information Service can connect you with a legal referral statewide. Make sure to ask about limited scope representation.

Other Lawyer Referral Services in Texas include:

• Corpus Christi Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Dallas Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• El Paso Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Houston Lawyer Referral Service
• Jefferson County Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas
• North Dallas Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Plano Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• San Antonio Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Tarrant County Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service

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What Does Limited Scope Representation Mean?

The term, “ limited scope representation ,” means that your lawyer will handle some parts of your case, and you will handle others by yourself. Instead of asking your lawyer to handle all aspects of your case, from start to finish, you can ask for help with one or more specific tasks. For example, you might file your own case in court, complete all the relevant paperwork, and ask an attorney to represent you during in-person hearings.

Limited scope representation is sometimes called “unbundling,” or “discrete task representation,” because you get to choose which tasks your attorney handles.

Examples of Limited Scope Arrangements

If you are interested in limited scope representation, discuss your situation with your attorney. You and your lawyer can create a custom arrangement to meet your needs.

Some examples of limited scope arrangements include:

• Someone handles their case themselves but regularly consults an attorney for legal information and advice.
• Someone pays an attorney to review their legal documents before submitting them.
• An attorney guides a couple through mediation .
• Someone hires a lawyer to handle child custody and support in their divorce case but resolves other issues themselves.
• An attorney helps someone prepare to represent themselves.
• A client takes care of simpler tasks, while their attorney handles discovery and legal research.

Many people choose limited scope representation because it is more affordable, and they may only need an attorney for certain tasks or problems. A divorcing couple, for instance, may agree on everything except child custody. Instead of hiring attorneys to handle their entire divorce, they can resolve property division issues by themselves and let lawyers represent them in their child custody disputes.

Is Limited Scope Representation Right for Me?

Only you and your lawyer can decide whether limited scope representation is right for you. If you are considering limited scope representation, be sure to talk to your attorney about your entire case and be as thorough as possible.

You and your lawyer will decide which parts of the case they will handle and which parts you will handle. If you ask your lawyer not to handle something, you are taking full responsibility for this part of your case. Make sure you have the time you need to educate yourself and complete your tasks.

Your attorney will not advise you to handle something that might be too complicated for you, so you must trust your lawyer and listen to their advice. Remember that your lawyer has education and experience in their field of law – and that they only want what’s best for you.

To protect themselves, your lawyer will ask you to sign a limited scope agreement that releases them from liability for the parts of your case you decide to handle.

If you want more support along the way, be sure to tell your lawyer, revise your limited scope agreement, and update your pay schedule.

Is Limited Scope Representation Better than Representing Myself?

Yes. California courts recommend limited scope representation “ because they want to encourage people to get as much legal assistance as they need to protect their rights .” If you have a lawyer, you will do a better job handling your case overall – even if your attorney is only handling the more complicated parts of the case.

Are There Situations in Which Limited Scope Representation Is Not Appropriate?

Yes. In some situations, lawyers are necessary:

• If your case is very technical, complex, or time-sensitive you should seek full representation.
• If you do not have the time or ability to handle case-related tasks effectively, you should seek full representation.
• If the stakes of your case are very high, you should seek full representation.

Many people choose limited scope representation for divorce cases, but full representation is more common in child custody cases. After all, no parent would jeopardize their rights to see their children.

Domestic violence situations may require full representation because it requires immediate attention, and the victim may be unable to safely represent themselves.

Cianci Law, PC Offers Traditional and Limited Scope Representation

At Cianci Law, PC , also known as Creative Family Solutions, we offer representation that meets your needs. We can help you and your spouse draft a settlement agreement that the judge will approve of – or walk you through each step of your divorce case.

Our team can be as involved (or hands-off) as you need us to be. We offer transparent representation based on honesty and integrity, so we won’t insist on billing you for more than what’s necessary, but we won’t leave you to handle an impossible situation by yourself, either.

Every case requires a unique approach and personalized strategy, and our goal is to educate you so you can make informed decisions regarding your case.

To find out what kind of representation is best for you and get the legal help you need, please call us at (916) 797-1575 or contact us online .

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Limited scope representation is when a lawyer agrees to help with part of a legal case, but not all of it. This is also known as "unbundling." Typically, lawyers do this for a reduced fee. In a limited scope representation, the lawyer and client work together to split up the tasks in the case. They decide who is responsible for each task. If you do this, you should sign a written agreement with your lawyer. The agreement should say what services they will provide you. You will be responsible for every other part of your case.

How do I find a lawyer who is willing to help me represent myself?

A Lawyer Referral Service may be able to help you find a lawyer who offers limited scope representation. 

Inside Chicago

• The Chicago Bar Association has Limited Scope Referral Panels related to landlord/tenant law  and family law . You may also be able to find limited scope lawyers in other areas of law through the Justice Entrepreneurs Project.  Call them at (312) 546-3282. 

Outside Chicago

• Contact the Illinois State Bar Association Lawyer Finder Program.  You can call them at (800) 678-4009.

What are the benefits of limited scope representation?

It can be expensive to hire a lawyer to provide full representation in a case. Limited scope representation is a cheaper option if you believe you can do some of the work without a lawyer’s help. The amount you pay depends on many factors, including:

• The types of services provided,
• The number of services provided, and
• The lawyer's experience level.  

Another benefit of limited scope representation is you have more control over your case than if the lawyer did everything. Limited scope representation is generally more flexible and customizable than full representation. 

What are examples of limited scope representation?

There are many ways to split the work in a case with your lawyer. Here are some examples:

• The lawyer prepares paperwork for you or reviews paperwork you have prepared on your own,
• The lawyer e-files documents or serves the other party for you,
• The lawyer coaches you on how to go to court by yourself,
• The lawyer prepares the evidence which you will present in court,
• The lawyer appears in court for some parts of your case (usually the most difficult or technical parts) while you appear in other parts, or
• The lawyer handles settlement negotiations and drafts or reviews a settlement agreement.

What cases are best for limited scope representation?

There is no “best” case. But there are times when it might make sense to hire a lawyer to provide limited scope representation:

• Going to court. Even if you want to do some work on your case, you may not feel comfortable going to court and talking to the judge. You can ask the lawyer to make a “limited scope appearance” and speak for you in court.
• Getting help where you need it. You may be willing to appear in court on your own but need help with tasks. These tasks could include drafting documents to file in court or dealing with the lawyer for the other party. In these situations, you can ask the lawyer to complete the documents for you or negotiate with the other party. But you would still appear in court on your own.
• Making the most of the lawyer’s time. You may be able to handle tasks like gathering financial information on your own, so you don’t have to pay the lawyer to do it. The lawyer can then take the information and put it in a form which is most useful to or required by the court.

What questions should I ask a lawyer offering limited scope representation?

You and your lawyer should talk about your case and agree on who will be in charge of what tasks. You should make sure you discuss questions including:

• Who will set the strategy in the case?
• Who will get the information?
• Who will draft documents for the court or write letters to the other party?
• Who will go to court, meetings, and settlement conferences?
• Who will deal with the other party to try to settle out of court?

What are the risks of limited scope representation?

When you hire a lawyer to provide limited representation, you are responsible for what happens in the parts of the case you do yourself. This includes when a lawyer coaches you. There may be problems that you don’t know about because you don’t have legal training. This is why you need to discuss your legal matter with your lawyer carefully. You must be open and truthful about everything in your case. This allows the lawyer to give you the best advice about the risks and benefits of representing yourself. You should also remember that when the lawyer finishes the tasks they agreed to, the lawyer is done with the case. The lawyer may agree to help you later on, but this is not required.

What happens if I need more help from the lawyer later on?

New issues often come up when a case is in court. You may decide you need more legal help than you expected. If you use limited scope representation, you can always go back and ask the lawyer to handle more tasks. If your lawyer agrees to provide additional services, you need to update or replace the old agreement with your lawyer. The new agreement should show the new tasks the lawyer will handle.

What if I decide I want the lawyer to handle the entire case?

After going to court on your own, even with good coaching from a lawyer, you may decide you would rather have a lawyer handle the whole case. Because you pay a lawyer for their time, it may be best to go back to the lawyer who already knows you and your legal issues. This allows you to avoid paying a new lawyer to get up to speed. If you hire your lawyer to provide full representation in the case, then you should make a new agreement with them.

What if the lawyer doesn’t want to do what I ask?

You and your lawyer should work as a team, but the case is always your case. The lawyer may have more experience in legal matters than you do, but the choice on how to proceed is still yours. If your lawyer feels strongly that what you want is not in your best interest, you should listen carefully to the reasons why. But the ultimate decision for your case belongs to you. You have the right to ignore your lawyer’s advice. But you have to accept responsibility for your decision if the case doesn’t turn out the way you hoped. You also have the right to seek legal advice from or hire another lawyer to handle the case.

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Why limited scope is the future of legal representation

And why it’s time say goodbye to the billable hour model

What's Inside

Whether you’re a solo practitioner or an associate at a Big Law firm, you’re probably familiar with–and likely work off of–the billable hours model. For years, billing by the hour has been standard practice for lawyers, and it can reap financial rewards. The more you bill, the more you make. But in recent years, both lawyers and clients are wising up to the fact that the pitfalls of this model may outweigh the benefits. 

For clients, the issues are obvious. The financial uncertainty of working on a billable model precludes the majority of people who need counsel from accessing it. In 2018, 77% of people dealing with a legal issue decided not to hire a lawyer because they feared they wouldn’t be able to afford one. But moving away from the billable model has benefits for lawyers, too. 

The future of fair legal representation: limited scope

As an alternative to a billable model, many solo practitioners and firms are leaning towards limited scope. Sometimes known as “unbundling,” the American Bar Association defines limited scope as “an alternative to full-service legal representation…like an à la carte menu for legal services, where clients get only the advice and services they need and therefore pay an overall more affordable fee.” [ 1 ] There are lots of clear client benefits to working on a limited scope model, but what’s the positive impact for attorneys? 

You’ll help more people

In most cases, because limited scope involves representing a client solely for the specific services their case requires, there are fixed, upfront fees associated with each service.This method of representation–and the financial transparency that comes with it–appeals to many clients, especially those who need to carefully budget for legal costs. This makes the limited scope model rewarding for lawyers, too: when you work this way, you’re able to help clients that may have previously considered legal representation out of reach. 

Your cases will get more efficient 

On a systemic level, limited scope representation also helps the courts. Often, clients that don’t have access to a lawyer choose to go pro se, or represent themselves. Pro se litigants are less knowledgeable on the court system as a whole and can have trouble navigating it, leading to longer, more complicated cases that can contribute to an increase in the court’s backlog. [ 2 ] 

Systemic efficiency is just one of the far-reaching benefits of limited scope. On an individual level, your cases may run more smoothly as well. One of the biggest pain points for clients when it comes to the billable model is not knowing what their lawyer is working on–or charging them for. When clients aren’t clear on what their lawyer is working on, it can lead to time-consuming conversations about what you’re charging for and why. When they are clear, there’s less confusion, increased client satisfaction and retention–and a higher likelihood of referrals and increased revenue down the road. 

Banish burnout

Most lawyers are well-acquainted with long days and late nights, and often, a billable model is the culprit. 

At most firms, lawyers are expected to bill enough hours to “not only cover salary and overhead, but also to generate revenue for the firm.” [ 3 ] In 2015, the average number of billable hours required was 1,892 for a first-year associate [ 4 ]. If we assume a 40-hour workweek, there are 2,080 total work hours in a year. However, not all hours are billable–honest lawyers can only bill for time that’s connected directly to their client’s case (though there are lots of unfortunate instances of bill padding and bill churning in the legal industry, another reason to look to limited scope). And according to a survey of nearly 3,000 legal professionals, lawyers spend 48% of their time on administrative, non-billable tasks. [ 5 ] 

So, in order to bill 1,892 hours and devote 998 additional hours to necessary administrative tasks, a lawyer would need to work 55-hour work weeks, or 11 hour days, every day of the year, without taking a lunch break or a vacation. It’s no wonder that burnout in the legal profession is on the rise. 

In October 2021, the New York State Bar Association surveyed over 3,000 attorneys on well-being in the legal profession. Attorneys reported “financial pressures in the business of law” and “lack of boundaries for down-time” as having the greatest [negative] impact on their mental well-being. The report stated that “the feeling of being on call weighed on individuals across types of practices, years in the profession, and number of lawyers at the respondent’s office.” The bottom line: a blurring of professional boundaries is a pain point for almost all lawyers, and financial pressures from firms pushing their employees to bill as many hours as possible may have a lot to do with it. When you’re not beholden to the pressures of billing as many hours as you possibly can, you can work smarter, not harder–and a lot of that burnout fades away as a result. 

Control your schedule 

Working on a limited scope basis means you may be able to say goodbye to those late nights and early mornings, if you want to. If you’re someone who thrives on taking on as many cases as possible, you can do that, too. Limited scope gives you the flexibility of taking on as many–or as few–services as you’d like. 

Get visibility into your earnings 

Limited scope representation typically means charging fixed, upfront fees for each service in a case. At firms like Marble, co-counsels get a percentage of the fee for each service–which means more visibility into their earnings, and can take on more cases at any given time if they want to increase them. 

The specifics: how limited scope works at Marble 

At Marble, we work with hundreds of co-counsels to support thousands of clients on a limited scope basis. Marble co-counsels get paid a clear price for every service they help a client with. Co-counsels also have full flexibility and autonomy over their schedules–they can take on as many or as few clients as they’d like and they’re able to help a client with one or all of the services their case requires. You can also adjust your caseload with Marble according to how much you’re looking to earn–many attorneys with Marble have reached new revenue goals since they started co-counseling with us. 

Less stress and increased efficiency, flexibility and transparency on both sides are just some of the benefits of working this way–and many in the legal industry are calling it the future of legal care. [ 6 ] If you’re looking to bid farewell to the billable hours model and lean into limited scope, apply to Marble today . 

Disclaimer: This article is provided as general information, not legal advice, and may not reflect the current laws in your state. It does not create an attorney-client relationship and is not a substitute for seeking legal counsel based on the facts of your circumstance. No reader should act based on this article without seeking legal advice from a lawyer licensed in their state.

This page includes links to third party websites. The inclusion of third party websites is not an endorsement of their services.

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Self-Representation: A Right To Be Reckoned With

Self-represented litigants are no less deserving of a proper day in court. Having judges and attorneys who are aware of the distinctiveness of dealing with pro se parties and diplomatic with the self-represented mindset promotes a smoother and more efficient environment for all concerned.

July 26, 2024 at 03:07 PM

8 minute read

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“The right of self-representation was guaranteed in many colonial charters and declarations of rights. These early documents establish that the ‘right to counsel’ meant to the colonists a right to choose between pleading through a lawyer and representing oneself … there is no evidence that the colonists and the Framers ever doubted the right of self-representation, or imagined that this right might be considered inferior to the right of assistance of counsel.” Faretta v. Cal. , 422 U.S. 806, 828-832 (1975).

The right to self-representation is solidified by Federal statute. See 28 U.S.C. 1654 (2024) (“In all courts of the United States the parties may plead and conduct their own cases personally or by counsel as, by the rules of such courts, respectively, are permitted to manage and conduct causes therein.”). Those who choose to represent themselves in court are referred to as pro se , pro per , in propia persona , or self-represented.

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