Unbundling Resources for Attorneys

Unbundled services (also called limited scope representation or “a la carte” legal services) means you and your client agree that you’ll handle specific parts of their case while they handle the rest.

Common unbundled services include:

• Coaching on what to expect and how to prepare
• Initial consultations and strategy advice
• Document preparation (complaints, responses, motions)
• Document review and coaching
• Limited court appearances for specific hearings
• Help with discovery or filing procedures

What makes it work:

• Clear written agreements defining exactly what you will and won’t do
• Upfront, transparent pricing for specific tasks
• Clients understand their responsibilities for the parts they’re handling
• You can limit scope when it’s reasonable under the circumstances

Important: Existing rules require that limited scope representation only be offered when it’s appropriate under the circumstances. This means unbundling is usually NOT an option for highly complex cases or clients who lack the capacity to handle any part of their case themselves.

Get Listed
in Our
Attorney
Directory

We maintain a free directory of Arkansas attorneys offering unbundled services. Being listed connects you with potential clients actively seeking affordable legal help.

Requirements to be listed:

• Be an Arkansas-licensed attorney in good standing
• Watch our on-demand webinar or attend a CLE on unbundling
• Provide proof of malpractice insurance
• List unbundled services on your firm’s website

There is no fee to be listed in the directory.

Arkansas Rules Supporting Unbundled Services

The Arkansas Supreme Court has adopted rules that explicitly authorize and clarify procedures for unbundled legal services:

Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct

Rule 1.2(c)

Authorizes limited scope representation “A lawyer may limit the scope of the representation if the limitation is reasonable under the circumstances and the client gives informed consent.”

Rules 4.2 and 4.3 

Govern communication between opposing counsel and your client. When you have filed a notice of limited scope representation, opposing counsel must communicate with you for matters within your scope and may communicate directly with your client only for matters outside it.

View Rule 1.2 | View Rule 4.2 | View Rule 4.3

Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure

Rule 11

Amended to provide that its signature requirements do not apply to ghostwritten documents, which are instead governed by Rule 87.

Rule 64 

Amended to provide that its requirement of court permission to withdraw does not apply to limited scope representation, which is instead governed by Rule 87.

Rule 87

Governs all aspects of limited scope representation in court proceedings, including:

• Authorizes attorneys to provide limited scope representation in accordance with Rule 1.2(c) (Rule 87(a))
• Establishes the notice of limited scope representation procedure (Rule 87(b))
• Authorizes ghostwriting: when you draft pleadings for a self-represented person, you must include this notation at the end of the document: “This document was prepared with the assistance of [your name], a licensed Arkansas lawyer, pursuant to Arkansas Rule of Professional Conduct 1.2(c).” No court appearance is required. (Rule 87(c))
• Allows termination of representation without leave of court by filing a Notice of Completion (Rule 87(d))

View Rule 11 | View Rule 64 | View Rule 87

Watch Our Webinar on Unbundling

This on-demand webinar covers:

• Ethical considerations for limited scope representation
• How to structure fee agreements
• Client communication and informed consent
• Procedures for limited court appearances
• Managing client expectations
• Best practices from attorneys already offering these services

Note: CLE credit is only available for live attendance, but the on-demand version is required for directory listing.

Watch Webinar

Additional CLE Opportunities

We periodically offer live CLE sessions on unbundling. Check back for upcoming dates or contact us to request a presentation for your local bar association.

Best Practices from Experienced Practitioners

Put everything in writing
Use detailed fee agreements that specify exactly what you will and won’t do. Have clients initial each section to ensure understanding.

Manage expectations from the start
Be crystal clear about what happens after your limited representation ends. Many attorneys provide a written summary of next steps the client will need to handle.

Set boundaries
Limited scope doesn’t mean unlimited availability. Specify how and when clients can contact you (e.g., email only, response within 48 hours).

Document everything
Keep detailed notes about what you advised, what documents you prepared, and what the client agreed to handle themselves.

Know when to say no
If a case is too complex or a client can’t realistically handle their portion, don’t offer limited scope representation. Full representation or a referral may be more appropriate.

Start small
Consider offering one or two specific unbundled services at first (e.g., document review or initial consultations) before expanding your offerings.

Additional Resources

National Resources

American Bar Association Resource Center on Unbundling
Comprehensive national resources, research, and best practices.

Handbook on Limited Scope Legal Assistance
Visit ABA Resource Center

Arkansas Bar Association

Contact your local bar association about presenting on unbundling or organizing a CLE on limited scope representation.

Questions or Need Help Getting Started?

We’re here to support attorneys interested in offering unbundled services. Whether you need clarification on the rules, want to discuss how to structure your practice, or have questions about directory listing, reach out.

Contact Us