LIMITED SCOPE REPRESENTATION IN FAMILY LAW CASES
Limited Scope Representation sometimes referred to as "Unbundling" is a way that an attorney can help you with part of your
case while you do part of it yourself. For example:
- you can consult with an attorney to prepare or review your
paperwork, but attend the hearing yourself;
- you can represent yourself through the whole case, and
periodically consult with an attorney who can coach you on the law,
procedures and strategy;
- you can do the preparation yourself and hire an attorney just to
make a court appearance for you;
- you may want to do your own investigation of the facts
("discovery") and ask the attorney to assist you in
putting the information in a format which is useful to the court;
- you may ask the attorney to be on
"standby" while you attend the settlement conference
yourself.
There are many factors to consider before choosing this course of
representation. To help you determine if you might be a good
candidate for this type of limited scope legal service rather than
"traditional full-service", please read the FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS section carefully.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED AND WOULD LIKE TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH A LIMITED SCOPE REPRESENTATION
ATTORNEY, PLEASE CONTACT
THE LAWYER REFERRAL AND INFORMATION SERVICE AT (925) 825-5700. There is a nominal charge for referrals.
Unlike other Lawyer Referral and Information Service Panels, the half-hour consultation
will likely be reserved for an accurate description of Limited Scope Representation Services and additional screening of client eligibility,
rather than direct advice and assistance.
All panelists are private practicing attorneys, who charge their
regular fees as determined at the time of the initial interview and
screening. The client and attorney will agree upon the scope and extent
of the relationship, as well as the cost of services.
COMMUNICATION AND TEAMWORK = SUCCESSFUL CASE
Remember, you and your attorney are working as a team. That
means that good communication and a clear understanding of each person's
assignments is essential. You will be taking more responsibility
for your case than in a traditional attorney-client situation, so you
should be willing to raise questions that you aren't sure about.
Material prepared by M. Sue Talia
