Sample Form For Limited Representation Agreement printable pdf download

Proposed Revision to Rule 4-1.2(c)

Proposed Revisions to

Missouri Rules of Professional Conduct

to clarify authorization of limited scope representation

Proposed Revision of MO.RPC Rule 4-1.2(c) … limited representation

A lawyer may limit the scope of [the] representation if the client gives written consent. Use of the

written Notice and Consent form, or a form substantially similar to the approved form, shall create

the presumptions that (a) the representation is limited to the lawyer and the services described in

the form and (b) the lawyer does not represent the client generally or in any matters other than

those identified in the form.

An otherwise unrepresented party to whom limited representation is being provided or has been

provided is considered to be unrepresented for purposes of communication under rule 4-4.2 and 4-

4.3 except to the extent the lawyer acting in the scope of limited representation provides other

counsel with a written notice of a time period within which other counsel shall communicate only with

the lawyer of the party who is otherwise self-represented.

COMMENT:

The rules authorize a lawyer to assist a pro se litigant on a limited basis without undertaking the full

representation of the client on all issues related to the legal matter for which the lawyer is engaged.

The Court is seeking to improve access to justice in Missouri Courts. Any doubt about the scope of

representation should be resolved in a manner that promotes the interests of justice and those of

the client and opposing party. se of a written agreement for limited representation is required.

The lawyer shall explain to the client the risks and benefits of limited representation during

consultation on limiting the scope of representation. An agreement for limited representation does

not exempt a lawyer from the duty to provide competent representation; however, the limitation of

the scope of representation is a factor to be considered when determining the legal knowledge, skill,

thoroughness and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation as required in Rule 4-

1.1.

APPROVED BY PRO SE COMMISSION VOTE ON 03/21/07.

Sample Form for Limited Representation Agreement

Notice and Consent to Limited Representation

To help you with your legal matters, you, the client, and _________________, the lawyer, agree that

the lawyer will limit the representation to helping you with a certain legal matter for a short time or for

a particular purpose.

The lawyer must act in your best interest and give you competent help. When a lawyer and you

agree that the lawyer will provide limited help:

The lawyer DOES NOT HAVE TO GIVE MORE HELP than the lawyer and you agreed; and

Sample Form For Limited Representation Agreement