Limited Scope Representation in Illinois

Limited Scope Representation, also referred to as “a la carte legal services” or “unbundled legal services,” provides clients with flexibility. It can be beneficial for certain clients and situations.

When going through a divorce, spouses often opt to hire an attorney to handle all aspects of their case. However, in some circumstances, a spouse may only need the help of a qualified divorce attorney for specific or limited purposes.

As the name refers, limited scope representation offers clients the ability to hire a divorce attorney to handle only certain aspects of their case. Typically, a divorcing spouse will hire a divorce attorney, initially paying the attorney a retainer and subsequently paying them hourly.

The total cost of your divorce will depend on the complexity and time required. Traditional representation requires a significant commitment on both the client and attorney’s side. On the other hand, limited scope representation is a lower commitment made by both parties, involving fees for only the limited number of hours and specified services provided by the attorney.

At Bruckner Hernandez Legal Solutions, LLC, we adapt to our clients’ needs. Our combined forty years of experience have exposed us to various situations, allowing us to cater to clients most favorably. Whether handling your case from beginning to end or simply playing a significant role on your path to divorce, we are ready to help you.

Limited Scope Representation Process

When seeking a divorce or family law attorney for limited scope representation, your attorney will need a signed client agreement. This agreement will contain the details of the representation, setting out the tasks the attorney will need to complete as well as the tasks the client will need to complete. This agreement will need to be in writing and signed before any representation can commence.

The client agreement will also contain the specifics regarding attorney fees, which will often be paid before the representation begins. In certain circumstances, your attorney will then file a Notice of Limited Scope Appearance. This will notify the court that your attorney will be representing you on a particular matter, detailing the specifics.

Once your attorney has completed the agreed-upon representation, they will formally withdraw from your case, doing so by oral motion or written notice.

If you require more legal help after the attorney has completed their representation, your attorney will draw up a new client agreement detailing the additional tasks they will perform.

Benefits of Limited Scope Representation

Limited scope representation can be beneficial for some individuals. This kind of client representation can make divorce more affordable and attainable. It also provides clients with the freedom to seek legal aid when a divorce attorney’s expertise is required.

No two divorces are the same. Some divorces will be quite tricky to navigate without the help of a qualified divorce attorney handling the case from start to finish. But, depending on the circumstances surrounding the divorce, other cases will be easier to resolve. If a couple had a short marriage, there are no kids involved, or few shared assets, a divorce will likely be less involved.

In these cases, a spouse may choose to represent themselves, pro se, or on their own behalf, as they may not feel the need to hire a divorce attorney. Nonetheless, a limited scope representation relationship will be highly beneficial to receive legal advice, fill out the required paperwork, or engage in negotiations.

Consider Whether Limited Scope Representation is Right for You

While limited scope representation is favorable for some, it is not right for everyone. Challenging divorce cases with many moving parts can benefit from one attorney handling the case from inception to completion. Many times, lines can become blurry throughout the process of limited representation. For example, you may have hired your attorney to represent you for a child support hearing, but the judge decides that more discovery is required for the issue and orders a continuance.

At this point, your attorney has technically completed their representation at your hearing, but more legal advice is needed. You and your attorney will then have to decide how, and if, you will extend your agreement. While you may have hired your attorney intending to limit your representation to one event, you must decide whether you will want to extend your agreement.

A divorce attorney can evaluate your particular situation to help you decide what type of representation is best for your case.

Skilled Limited Scope Representation Lawyer in St. Charles, IL and DeKalb, IL

If you require the assistance of a skilled and understanding attorney, consult Bruckner Hernandez Legal Solutions, LLC today. From start to finish, Rachel Nicole Hernandez & Sandra Petras Bruckner make sure you are comfortable with the process. Call our St. Charles, Illinois, office today at 630-888-0017 or contact us online. We serve clients in Kane and DeKalb Counties, including but not limited to the communities of St. Charles, Geneva, Elgin, Batavia, Aurora, DeKalb and Sycamore.