Divorce Matters in Ohio: Limited Representation

Hire A Divorce Attorney Or Save Money With Limited Representation?

divorce limited representationWhen married couples decide on a divorce, a number of things can happen.  When one party decides to file for the divorce, they can either attempt the divorce pro se (without a lawyer) or hire an attorney. There is another option.

The middle ground occurs when firms and divorce attorneys offer “unbundled legal services.”  This is also called “limited scope representation” and occurs when a divorce attorney or firm reviews or creates the documents, and informs the pro se filer when and where to file, but does not offer any other legal advice.   Essentially sending you on your way with a “complete” divorce packet.

After the documents are prepared, the divorce can continue without attorney representation.

Limited representation arrangements are relatively new in Ohio.  While designed to help consumers with “low cost” representation options in simple divorces cases, they can also create a quagmire between the Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct and a lawyer’s duty to represent their client to their fullest ability.  According to the ORPC 1.2, an attorney and client may limit the scope of the attorney’s representation given that the limitations are “reasonable.”

The “reasonableness” factor … Read More... “Divorce Matters in Ohio: Limited Representation”