Can You Just Handle This One Thing?

Family law cases are overwhelming – no surprise there. Divorce, custody, support, or all of the above can feel like trying to perform surgery on yourself with a YouTube tutorial and a butter knife.

But here’s something most people don’t realize until they’re knee-deep in filings and frustration:

You don’t always need a lawyer for everything.  Sometimes, you just need the right lawyer for the right piece. That’s where Limited Scope Representation comes in.

What Is Limited Scope Representation?

Limited scope (also called “unbundled”) legal services mean you hire an attorney for specific tasks in your case – rather than full-scale representation from start to finish.

Examples:

• Need someone to draft a declaration that won’t tank your credibility? That’s limited scope.
• Want legal review of your custody agreement before you sign? Limited scope.
• Don’t want to appear in court alone on a high-stakes hearing? You can bring in counsel just for that appearance.

You’re still officially self-represented in your case, but with professional legal support where it matters most.

Why This Option Makes Sense

Let’s talk brass tacks.

Full-service legal representation can cost $25,000–$50,000 or more. And for many working professionals, parents, and homeowners, that’s just not realistic—especially when only part of the case feels legally complex.

Limited scope gives you:

• Access to experienced legal advice without blowing your budget
• Control over your case. You decide where to involve an attorney and where you can handle things yourself
• Peace of mind knowing your documents, court strategy, or settlement terms have been professionally reviewed

It’s a smart, strategic way to protect yourself, without taking on a second mortgage.

When Limited Scope Works

This approach can be incredibly effective in the right circumstances.

Here’s when it typically makes sense:

• You’re confident navigating most of your case but need help with one tough spot – like trial prep, child support calculations, or responding to a declaration filled with half-truths and drama.
• You’ve reached a tentative agreement with your ex, but want it reviewed before you sign off and make it permanent.
• You need to file a motion and don’t want to misstep with the paperwork, deadlines, or legal arguments.
• You’re representing yourself but want a skilled attorney to appear at a key hearing.

Think of it like working with a financial advisor: you don’t need to outsource your entire life, but you do want expert eyes on your big decisions.

When Limited Scope Won’t Work

It’s not for everyone, and it’s not for every case.

Skip limited scope if:

• Your ex has aggressive counsel and you’re feeling overwhelmed or emotionally compromised
• Your case involves complex financials, property division, or cross-jurisdictional issues
• You don’t have time or bandwidth to manage court deadlines, filings, or the logistics of self-representation

In these situations, full representation may be the better investment – not because you can’t do it, but because you shouldn’t have to while also juggling work, parenting, and your sanity.

How It Works in California

In California family law, attorneys can file a Notice of Limited Scope Representation (FL-950) that outlines the specific task or appearance they’re handling. After that task is complete, the attorney files a withdrawal and steps out of the case.

It’s clear. It’s clean. And it gives you flexibility without leaving you legally exposed.

What I See in Practice

As a family law attorney, I offer limited scope representation for clients all the time – because not every case requires a full retainer, and not every client wants to be hands-off.

This is ideal for:

• Parents negotiating parenting plans who just want legal backup – not a courtroom war
• Professionals managing their own cases, but wanting key pieces handled with precision
• Clients trying to avoid expensive mistakes by having the right guidance at the right time

If that’s you, you’re not cutting corners – you’re being intentional. You’re protecting your future without overextending yourself in the present.

Final Thought: Be Smart, Not Outlawyered

Limited scope services offer a middle path between going it completely alone and going all-in on legal representation.
You don’t need to be a legal expert – you just need to know when to bring one in.

If you’re handling your own case but want expert support for the critical parts, we can help you build a focused, efficient plan that fits your goals and your budget.