In a divorce, separation, or custody case, you might need help from an attorney for just one issue. Maybe your spouse is trying to take advantage of you, or there’s some other specific challenge that requires expert advice. Regardless of why, hiring an attorney for a particular task can be very helpful in these situations. But can you hire an attorney for one family law issue? We will discuss how this is accomplished and what to expect from this service.
Can You Hire a Lawyer For One Family Law Issue?
The simple answer is yes. Suppose you are involved in a dissolution proceeding and you are representing yourself but only need an attorney’s assistance for one issue, such as child custody, property division, or to establish child support. In that case, there is a way to hire an attorney for that issue alone. An attorney can file a form called a Notice of Limited Scope Representation. Limited scope legal services can be viewed as an a la carte meal. Instead of purchasing the whole meal, you can select what you want and save time and money.
What Does a Limited Scope Mean?
You and a lawyer may agree to a limited-scope representation in which you take charge of some aspects of your case and the lawyer handles others. In full scope representation, the lawyer handles all aspects of the case from beginning to end. With limited scope the issues that the lawyer handles are spelled out in the Notice and the litigant handles all aspects of the case that are not specifically assigned to the lawyer.
Issues a Limited Scope Lawyer Can Handle
In a family law matter, a limited scope lawyer may provide a wide variety of legal services based on your specific needs. You may hire an attorney that handles all the paperwork in your case or ensures that it is accurate and complete. A limited scope attorney can also address your case’s logistical issues, including scheduling and preparation for court appearances and proceedings. A limited scope attorney may be hired for one court appearance such as a Department of Child Support Services hearing or to represent you at a custody hearing.
When Do I Need Limited Scope Legal Help?
It is usually advantageous to seek an attorney as soon as you realize you are not equipped to handle the issue. It is common for people to enter family law proceedings thinking they can handle them independently, only to face significant challenges they are unfamiliar with. Your attorney may review your situation and advise you on the kind of legal help that would be most advantageous. Suppose you can handle some aspects of the issue but not all of them. In that case, you should seek out a limited scope attorney immediately to help with one family law issue.
When Does the Limited Scope End?
Once the attorney has completed the work you have hired them to do, you will be required to sign a Substitution of Attorney, relieving the attorney of his or her duties. This lets the Court and all parties involved know that the attorney no longer represents you on the specified issues.
Bottom Line
In addition to providing cost-efficient legal representation, a limited scope attorney for one family law issue can assist their client in several ways. If you are going through any type of family law issue and do not think your case requires full representation, consult with an experienced limited scope lawyer to determine the best type of representation for your needs.
We Can Help
We hope this article helped answer your questions. Please contact us today if you have any other concerns or inquiries about family law and limited scope representation for one family law issue. Remember, you do not have to face this difficult time alone. You can also book a no-cost consultation with Whipple, Mercado & Associates.
We look forward to hearing from you.