Limited Scope Representation

and Unbundled Legal Services

 

Ohio law permits attorneys to represent clients on a limited scope basis. Limited Scope Representation (LSR) is a contractual arrangement where a lawyer agrees to represent a client for certain parts of their case, rather than providing full-service and representing the client from start to finish.

 

Limited Scope Representation allows you to represent yourself and only hire an attorney for specific tasks. Perhaps you need advice regarding the manner in which self-employment income is calculated for child support purposes or you are having trouble obtaining documents from your spouse’s employer. Limited Scope Representation affords you an opportunity to hire counsel for advice on a given topic or to perform specific pieces of work.

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​Christopher M. Alexander has represented individuals in family law matters over the past 25 years and has tackled just about every issue that can arise during divorce, dissolution, and post-decree cases. If you are interested in learning more about the possibility of utilizing limited scope representation from an attorney who offers unbundled legal services in divorce, dissolution, and post-decree matters, contact Christopher M. Alexander at (513) 228 – 1100 or email him at chris@alexander-legal.com.

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How Can I Use Limited Scope Representation in Family Law Cases

 

Limited Scope Representation (LSR) allows you to maintain complete control over your case and hire an attorney to perform only specific tasks. So long as the limitation or service is reasonable, the law allows it. In family law matters, this includes representation in the following areas:

 

• Advising on court procedures and courtroom behavior

• Coaching on strategy

• Conducting legal research

• Drafting documents and agreements

• Drafting pleadings, briefs and orders

• Ghostwriting

• Hearing or Trial Preparation

• Hearing Participation

• Making limited appearances

• Negotiating

• Organizing discovery materials

• Participating in online, telephone or in person conferences

• Perfecting Service

• Preparing exhibits

• Providing legal guidance and options

• Reviewing Documents

 

Do All Attorneys Offer Unbundled Legal Services

 

Limited Scope Representation (LSR) is still catching on in the realm of family law, but its uses are expanding. The Supreme Court of Ohio and the Ohio State Bar Association are strong advocates of bringing the concept of limited scope representation and unbundled legal services into the mainstream.

 

Amendments to the Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure now provide for the filing of a Notice of Limited Appearance and Notice of Completion of Limited Appearance in your case. These seemingly simple notices allow you and your attorney to define what task(s) he/she is performing and clearly provide notice to the court, other parties and opposing counsel of the parameters of the limited representation.

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Still, some attorneys remain hesitant about offering limited scope representation because of the potential ethical ramifications of entering into an agreement that limits their representation to only certain aspects of a case while leaving significant responsibilities in the hands of the client.

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How do I know if Limited Scope Representation is for Me

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With traditional full-service legal representation, your lawyer will undertake representation and perform the work that he or she feels is in your best interest. Many clients fear that legal fees in full-service representation can spin out of control. With limited scope representation, your lawyer will work on specific projects that are fully identified and understood from the beginning. The lawyer works on a project basis only. 

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Carefully evaluate whether limited scope representation is appropriate for you and your family law case. While saving money is commendable, evaluate the possible risks of your decision. Proper representation often requires research, court filings, discovery, and investigation that that your family law attorney will undertake on your behalf. Be cognizant of your emotional detachment, communication skills and ability to understand basic legal concepts while managing legal paperwork and performing tasks timely.

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​Christopher M. Alexander has represented individuals through hundreds of family law matters over the past 25 years and has confronted virtually every issue that can arise during a divorce, dissolution, and post-decree case. If you are interested in learning more about limited scope representation from an attorney who offers unbundled legal services in divorce, dissolution, and post-decree matters, contact Christopher M. Alexander at (513) 228 – 1100 or email him at chris@alexander-legal.com.