Limited Scope Representation provides Affordable Legal Services rarely offered by full-service traditional law firms.
1/22/12 at 12:56
Attorney fees vary widely, depending primarily on geographical location. Here in the foothills, a rate of $250 per hour is not uncommon. A recent development in the legal field is spreading throughout the industry, and, just recently, to Sonora and Tuolumne County: Limited Scope Representation. Limited Scope Representation allows the attorney and client to decide which "a la carte" service(s) will best suit the client's legal and financial needs. Basically, the various aspects of the case are divvied up, with the client undertaking those tasks that s/he feels comfortable with, while the attorney undertakes the more complicated aspects of the case.
"A La Carte", "Unbundled Legal Services", "Limited Scope Representation", "Discrete Task Representation": All these terms signify the same thing: Lower Legal Fees resulting from a partnership between the attorney and client.
This service is ideal for the self-represented party. In essence, the attorney "ghost-writes" any legal correspondence/documentation, providing a professional polish that is often lacking in self-represented cases. The attorney is also able to coach the client on relevant law/procedure. It provides a good assessment of the client's "self-evaluation", which often times results in the client becoming aware of his/her case's strengths/weaknesses, allowing the client a more realistic understanding of the legal issues involved.
Often times, all it takes to resolve an issue is a well-worded "demand" letter, advising the opposing party of your desired outcome to the dispute, along with facts/law in support of your position. I can help you draft such a letter, or prepare one on my letterhead on your behalf.
Another issue to consider is estate planning. Often times, people use "self-help" books to assist them in their estate planning needs. These books are often not written by attorneys, or are written by attorneys practicing in different jurisdictions, and, since estate laws vary state-by-state, it is wise to find an attorney licensed to practice in your state of residency that is familiar with the laws of that state and your particular circumstances. Spending a few hundred dollars up front now can save your heirs thousands in probate fees, not to mention the stress associated with an invalid will or one that does not effectuate the intended result.
Be advised that limited scope representation does NOT provide the services a full-service traditional law firm provides. Limited Scope Representation is encouraged by the State Bar of California, as it is a recognized means of reducing legal fees. However, it is not for all types of cases/parties. For more information, please refer to www.legaladviceandassistance.com
