In an effort to expand access to the court system, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has developed and approved the implementation of a Pilot Project on Limited Assistance Representation in Hampden, Suffolk, and Norfolk Counties. The Project is running for a period of eighteen months, beginning November 1, 2006, unless otherwise ordered. The Pilot Project permits attorneys to assist a pro se litigant on a limited basis without undertaking a full representation of the client on all issues related to the legal matter. (Click here [PDF] to read the court order establishing the program).
Normally, a lawyer must represent a client in a case from start to finish. The Limited Assistance Project makes it possible for a lawyer to assist with only those parts of a case where legal advice is needed.
Lawyers participating in the program have received special training and are familiar with the rules and procedures that need to be followed. The services are not free, but the lawyer will work only on those parts of the case where help is needed; fee arrangements are agreed upon beforehand. Through the limited representation program, an individual may represent himself in court but obtain legal advice beforehand. The lawyer can draw up any required court paperwork (“ghostwriting”) and explain the court’s procedures before a litigant goes to see the judge on his own. Alternatively, the lawyer may appear in court for limited purposes such as a motion hearing without taking over the whole case.
A complete list of qualified limited representation attorneys in Suffolk County may be referenced at http://www.probatecourtiannella.com.
