Limited Scope Representation 2026

  • OnDemand seminar
  • Attorney Regulation
Up to 1.5 Credit Hours
View schedule and faculty
Limited Scope Representation 2026

When less is more

When clients can’t afford full representation but still need meaningful legal help, limited scope or “unbundled” legal services may be a viable option. But offering limited scope representation requires clear boundaries and a firm understanding of how “limited” engagements can easily expand into full responsibility. Attorneys who want to provide unbundled services must know how to define the scope of representation, complete the assigned task, and close the file without creating ongoing duties to the client.

The à la carte attorney

Limited Scope Representation gives you tools to handle limited scope work confidently and responsibly.

12:00 pm
What is "limited scope representation?" (SCR 20:1.2)

What do we need to think about when deciding whether to engage in limited scope representation?

  • Competence (SCR 20:1.1)
    • Dabbling
  • Malpractice perilsConflicts (SCR 20:1.7-1.10)
  • Engagement letters and fees (SCR 20:1.2, 20:1.5)
    • Defining the scope of work
    • What is a "reasonable fee" under the circumstances?
    • How do we deal with clients who believe this arrangement will save them money?
  • Declining or withdrawing (SCR 20:1.16)
12:50 pm

Special cases

  • Dealing with an opposing party or third party who has a limited scope agreement with their attorney
  • Acting as local counsel
  • Reviewing documents drafted by others  
    • The client
    • Online services such as LegalZoom
    • Artificial Intelligence
  • Software as a Service
  • Consulting agreements

  • Reduce malpractice risk by setting defensible boundaries and identifying early signs of scope expansion
  • Serve cost-conscious clients without absorbing the burdens of full representation
  • Improve client satisfaction through clear expectations and predictable fee arrangements
  • Recognize when declining or withdrawing is appropriate under Supreme Court Rules
  • Broaden your service offerings with an ethics-compliant, client-centered model
  • Apply practical tools for managing AI, online document platforms, and third-party assistance
  • Solo and small firm lawyers
  • General practitioners
  • Any lawyer seeking to offer limited scope representation
  • Lawyers who are concerned about access to justice

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