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Outline

Accessing affordable legal assistance in Oregon has been made more achievable through the Modest Means Program, a commendable initiative spearheaded by the Oregon State Bar aimed at those caught in the financial gray area—earning too much to be eligible for legal aid but not enough to afford the high costs of traditional legal services. At its heart, the program is a bridge connecting moderate-income Oregonians with attorneys willing to charge reduced rates, without any subsidies to offset the difference in cost. It’s tailored for handling specific legal matters including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant disputes, and foreclosure issues, ensuring that the services offered are in areas of high demand. To engage with the program, potential clients are required to meticulously complete an application form and submit it through designated channels, adhering strictly to the instructions provided to avoid delays in processing. The program's eligibility criteria are comprehensive, factoring in the type of legal matter, applicant's income and assets, and even geographical constraints, which underscores the importance of thoroughness in the application process. Moreover, the program delineates clear steps following application submission, from the initial qualification communication to the details surrounding consultation costs and subsequent legal fees. This structured approach not only enhances transparency but also sets realistic expectations for applicants, guiding them through the procedural nuances of acquiring legal representation at a cost they can afford. Overall, the Modest Means Program is a testament to the legal community’s commitment to accessibility and equity in legal representation, curated to ensure that financial constraints do not impede one's pursuit of justice.

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Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM

Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR 97281-1935

Voice: (503) 684-3763 (800) 452-7636 Fax: (503) 431-6444

PLEASE READ BEFORE COMPLETING APPLICATION:

Oregon lawyers created the Modest Means Program to help moderate-income Orego- nians find affordable legal assistance. The program is intended to help those who earn too much to qualify for legal aid, but who cannot afford traditional legal fees. Modest Means lawyers have agreed to charge reduced rates for legal work provided to clients referred to them through the program. There is no grant, fund or subsidy that makes up the difference between the lawyers’ regular rates and the Modest Means Program rates. The lawyers DJUHHWRFKDUJHUHGXFHG rates because they believe in the mission of this program and want to help.

Types of Matters: Modest Means lawyers only handle certain kinds of family law, crim- inal defense, landlord/tenant and foreclosure matters. If the specific area of law with which you need help is not listed on the application, then it is not part of the program.

To Apply: Before you can be referred to a Modest Means lawyer you must apply and be pre-qualified. To apply, you must complete the application form and return it to us by fax, mail, or email (legalhelp@oregonstatebar.org--PDFs ONLY). You can call the number listed above for the application form or download it from the bar’s website at www.oregonstatebar.org.

Please do not forget to sign and date your application. Your application will not be processed if you do not fill out your application completely, or fail to sign or date it. Do not include any other documents with your application – any documents you send to us will not be returned. We process most applications within one (1) business day. If you provide an email address, please check your email account for your referral or for questions that we may have about your application.

Eligibility: Eligibility is based on the type and location of your legal matter, your in- come and assets, your location, and availability of participating lawyers in your area. It is important to understand there are a limited number of lawyers in the program, and there may not be a Modest Means lawyer in your county. We cannot guarantee that we will have a lawyer for you even if you pre-qualify. In addition, your legal matter must be in Oregon and both parties must live in Oregon to be eligible for the Modest Means Program. If both parties do not live in Oregon you will not be referred to a Modest Means Program lawyer even if your legal matter is in Oregon.

(continued on next page)

Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM

Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR 97281-1935

Voice: (503) 684-3763 (800) 452-7636 Fax: (503) 431-6444

Qualification Process: You will be contacted by email or telephone after your application has been reviewed. If you pre-qualify, we will give you the name and phone number of a lawyer in your area for you to contact. The lawyer to whom we refer you will receive a copy of your application and may ask additional questions to confirm your eligibility for the program. The lawyer has the final say as to whether or not you qualify for the program.

Initial Consultation: If you are referred to a Modest Means lawyer, you will need to call the lawyer to make an appointment for your initial 30-minute consultation. Your consultation will cost no more than $35, payable at the time that you meet with the lawyer.

Hiring a Modest Means Program Lawyer: Whether or not you hire the lawyer to represent you after your initial consultation is a decision for both you and the lawyer to make. We cannot guarantee that a lawyer will agree to take your case. All Modest Means lawyers who participate are volunteers and have the right to choose whether or not they will accept your case.

Legal Fees & Costs: Lawyers who are willing to accept Modest Means clients have agreed to charge no more than $60, $80, or $100 per hour for any services they provide beyond the initial $35, 30-minute consultation. Which hourly rate will apply to you depends upon your income and assets. You will be asked to pay a retainer (deposit against fees) up front. The retainer amount will be determined by the lawyer following your initial consultation. The amount of the retainer will depend on the lawyer's esti-mate of how much work will be required to complete your case. You will also be charged for any court fees and other direct costs, including phone charges, photocopy expenses, etc.

The Modest Means Program is not a legal aid program and it is not a pro bono (free) program. You must be able to pay $35 for an initial consultation, plus $60/80/100 per hour (as applicable) for any work done beyond the initial consultation. In order to be referred to a Modest Means Program lawyer, your application must demonstrate that you have the ability to pay these fees. If someone will be helping you pay for your legal fees and costs please explain that on your application. If you are unable to pay these fees and costs, you should contact the legal aid office in your county of resi- dence. The Oregon State Bar does not have a referral program for pro bono (free) lawyers.

Portland Metro Area: (503) 684-3763

Elsewhere in Oregon: (800) 452-7636

Fax: (503) 431-6444

Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page 1-3)

Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR 97281-1935

Voice: (503) 684-3763 (800) 452-7636 Fax: (503) 431-6444

INSTRUCTIONS: Please print clearly or type. Please sign and date your application. Your application will not be processed if you do not fill out your application completely, or fail to sign or date it. Do not include any other documents with this application – any documents you send to us will not be returned. We process most applications within one (1) business day. If you provide an e-mail address, please check your e-mail account for your referral or questions we may have about your application. Fax or mail your completed application to us:

OREGON STATE BAR MODEST MEANS PROGRAM, P.O. BOX 231935, TIGARD, OR 97281-1935

FAX: (503) 431-6444 EMAIL: legalhelp@oregonstatebar.org

Please note: All information provided will be treated as confidential communications made for the purpose of facilitating the rendering of professional legal services to you. We will preserve the confidentiality of all such information unless otherwise required by law.

First Name

Last Name

Address

 

City

Zip Code

Phone Number

E-mail Address [If you provide an e-mail address that is how you will be notified.]

Family Law (No Appeals)

Criminal Law (No Capital Charges or Appeals)

Divorce/Separation

Misdemeanor

Custody/Parenting Time

Lesser Felony

Support/Modification

Major Felony

Juvenile/DHS/CSD/SCF issues

DUII/DWS

Paternity

Parole/Probation

Restraining Orders

Expungement

Process Questions

 

Domestic Violence

Real Property (No Appeals)

Grandparent/3rd Party Rights

Foreclosure

Spousal Support

Landlord-Tenant (Tenant)

Coaching (General)

Landlord-Tenant (Landlord)

Document Review

Mobile Home (Tenant)

 

Mobile Home (Landlord)

In which city/county do you need assistance?

 

When is your next court date (if applicable)?

 

What is the name of the opposing party?

 

Does the opposing party have an attorney?

 

If yes, what is the attorney’s name?

 

Are both parties in Oregon?

 

Have you already consulted with an attorney?

 

If yes, what is the attorney’s name?

 

Reason you are looking for another attorney:

 

 

Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page 2-3)

First Name

Last Name

Phone Number

E-mail Address

A household consists of people with whom you share income and expenses, who live in your home at least 50% of the time.

How many people live in your household including you?

_____Adults

_____Children

 

 

Marital Status:

Unmarried or Widowed

Married

Separated

Divorced

Do you and your spouse live in the same household?

 

Yes

No

N/A

Do you rent or own the home in which you are living?

 

Rent

Own

 

Do you own any land or a house, even if you do not live there?

Yes

No

 

Make of each vehicle owned

Year

Model

 

 

Value (est.)

1.

2.

Gross Income (before taxes)

 

(per month)

Wages:

$

 

Spousal Support:

$

 

Child Support:

$

 

Veteran's Benefit:

$

 

Unemployment:

$

 

SSI/SSD:

$

 

TANF (not SNAP):

$

 

Public Benefits, Aid, SNAP:

$

 

Retirement/Investment Income:

$

 

Other income (please specify):

$

 

Total Gross Income:

$

0

Special Expenses & Debts1

 

(Per Month)

 

$

 

 

$

 

Liquid Assets

 

 

Checking Account Balance

$

 

Savings Account Balance

$

 

Money Market/Other Account

$

 

Total Liquid Assets:

$

0

Non-liquid Assets

 

 

Amount in Retirement Plans (401k),

 

 

mutual funds, securities, bonds, etc.:

$

 

Other non-liquid assets (please specify):

 

 

 

$

 

Total Non-liquid Assets:

$

0

Partner/Family Members in Household :

(Gross Income

 

 

per month)

Medical2(see explanation below):

$

 

 

 

 

Child Care3(see explanation below):

$

 

Name

Relationship

 

Transportation4(see explanation below):

$

 

 

 

$

Spousal Support:

$

 

 

 

$

Child Support:

$

 

If not already listed above, what is your

 

 

 

 

spouse's gross income per month?

 

Total Special Expenses/Debts:

$

0

(Please estimate, if separated.)

$

1Ordinary expenses that most people have (such as rent, food, utilities) are considered in the basic income calculations and should not be listed here. Other personal and discretionary expenses such as car payments, car insurance, and credit card debts are not considered under our guidelines.

2“Medical” refers to medical expenses that are not covered by insurance. 3“Child Care” refers to costs incurred while a parent is at work.

4“Transportation” refers to basic transportation costs to get to and from work (bus tickets, gas).

Have you submitted an application before?

Yes

No If so, when?

By signing below, I certify that all information provided is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I understand and agree that if I provide inaccurate, incomplete, misleading or false information on this application, or to any Modest Means Program attorney, I may be disqualified from participation in any and all Referral & Information Services programs, including the Modest Means Program.

Signature

Date

 

B E L O W I S F O R O F F I C E U S E O N L Y

Eligible:

Y

N

Tier:

1

2

3

$

/hour Notes:

(rev. 5/18

 

Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page 3-3)

First Name

Last Name

Phone Number

E-mail Address

Briefly describe the legal matter for which you are seeking assistance:

Get PDF Form

Document Attributes

Fact Name Description
Program Purpose The Oregon Modest Means Program was created by Oregon lawyers to help moderate-income residents access affordable legal assistance, aiming to fill the gap for those who earn too much for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees.
Legal Matter Coverage Participating lawyers handle specific types of legal matters including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant disputes, and foreclosure issues, emphasizing support for moderate-income individuals in critical legal areas.
Application and Eligibility Eligibility for the program is determined by the type and location of the legal issue, the applicant's income and assets, and the availability of a participating lawyer in the applicant's area, requiring pre-qualification through an application process.
Consultation Cost The initial 30-minute consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35, making legal counsel more accessible while requiring participants to have the ability to pay for services provided beyond the consultation.
Legal Fees Structure Legal fees for services beyond the initial consultation are capped at reduced rates of no more than $60, $80, or $100 per hour, based on the client's income and assets, highlighting the commitment to affordability.

How to Fill Out Oregon Modest Means Program

Filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form is an important step for individuals seeking affordable legal assistance. This program serves as a bridge for those who find themselves in a financial gray area: making too much to qualify for legal aid but not enough to afford traditional attorney fees. Lawyers participating in this program have agreed to work at reduced rates, showcasing their commitment to accessibility and equity in legal services. The following instructions guide you through completing the application to ensure clarity and increase your chances of a successful match with a lawyer who fits your legal needs and financial situation.

  1. Begin by gathering all necessary information, including financial documents and details about your legal matter.
  2. Print your first and last name clearly at the top of the application.
  3. Fill in your contact information, including your address, city, zip code, phone number, and email address. Ensure that the email address is one you frequently check, as this will be the primary method of communication.
  4. Select the type of legal matter you need assistance with by checking the appropriate box(es) under the categories provided (Family Law, Criminal Law, Real Property, and others listed).
  5. Indicate the city or county where you require legal assistance, your next court date if applicable, the opposing party's name, whether they have an attorney, and both parties' residence situation to confirm Oregon residency.
  6. Provide information about your household, including the number of adults and children living in your household, your marital status, and your living situation (rent or own).
  7. List any vehicles you own, including the make, year, model, and estimated value.
  8. Enter details about your income and assets, including your wages, any support you receive, and other sources of income. Include information about your expenses and any debts.
  9. Document your household's income, if not only yours, to give a complete picture of your financial situation.
  10. If applicable, mark whether you have submitted an application to this program before, and if so, when.
  11. Read through your application carefully to ensure all the information provided is accurate and complete. Incomplete applications cannot be processed.
  12. Sign and date the bottom of the application to certify that the information you have provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
  13. Finally, fax or mail your completed application to the address provided at the top of the form, or email it as a PDF to the specified email address.

After submitting your application, the review process typically takes one business day. You will then be contacted via email or phone with further instructions. If pre-qualified, you will receive the contact information of a Modest Means lawyer in your area. Remember, while the program aims to assist, the availability of lawyers varies, and there is no guarantee of representation. Your initial consultation will be at a maximum cost of $35, and any subsequent legal fees are subject to the program's guidelines and your financial situation.

More About Oregon Modest Means Program

  1. What is the purpose of the Oregon Modest Means Program?

    The Oregon Modest Means Program was established by lawyers in Oregon to aid individuals who have moderate incomes in accessing affordable legal assistance. It targets those who make too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. The program enlists lawyers willing to charge reduced rates to clients they receive through the Modest Means Program. These lawyers participate because they support the mission to provide legal help to people in need.

  2. Who can apply for the Modest Means Program?

    Individuals seeking legal assistance in certain areas such as family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant, and foreclosure matters and who find standard attorney fees unaffordable can apply. Applicants must complete and submit a form provided by the Oregon State Bar, after which their eligibility is determined based on the type and location of their legal issue, their income and assets, and availability of lawyers in their area.

  3. How does one apply to the Modest Means Program?

    To apply, an individual must fill out the application form and submit it via fax, mail, or email in PDF format. Important details must be clearly filled out, including the applicant’s signature and date. Incomplete applications or those without a signature and date will not be processed. Most applications are processed within one business day. Applicants are encouraged to provide an email address for efficient communication.

  4. What are the eligibility requirements for the Modest Means Program?

    Eligibility depends on several factors: the type and location of the legal matter, the applicant’s income and asset levels, and the geographic location, including availability of participating lawyers nearby. Both the applicant and the other party involved in the legal matter must reside in Oregon. It's also essential that the program has available lawyers in the applicant's specific legal area.

  5. What happens after an application is submitted?

    After reviewing the application, the Modest Means Program contacts eligible applicants via email or telephone. Those who pre-qualify will be given a lawyer's contact information. However, it is the lawyer who makes the final decision on eligibility. An initial consultation, not exceeding $35, is arranged, and the applicant must contact the lawyer to schedule it.

  6. What if a Modest Means lawyer agrees to take my case?

    After the initial consultation, hiring a Modest Means lawyer is a mutual decision between the client and the lawyer. While the program aims to help, it does not guarantee that the lawyer will accept the case. The lawyers volunteer their services and may choose not to take a case for various reasons.

  7. How are legal fees structured under this program?

    Lawyers in the Modest Means Program agree to charge no more than $60, $80, or $100 per hour for services beyond the initial consultation fee of $35. The specific hourly rate is based on the applicant's income and assets. Additionally, clients may need to pay a retainer and cover other direct costs like court fees and photocopy expenses. This program is neither a legal aid nor a pro bono initiative; applicants must be able to afford the $35 consultation and subsequent hourly rates.

  8. What should I do if I cannot afford the fees mentioned?

    If the fees of the Modest Means Program are beyond an applicant's financial capability, they are encouraged to contact the legal aid office in their county. The Oregon State Bar does not offer referrals to pro bono lawyers through this program, and as such, seeking legal aid support is an alternative option for individuals unable to afford modest means rates.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Modest Means Program form in Oregon can be a crucial step towards obtaining affordable legal assistance. However, applicants often make mistakes which can delay or affect their ability to get the help they need. Understanding these common errors can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly.

  1. Not reading the instructions thoroughly: Many applicants jump straight into filling out the form without carefully reading the instructions. This oversight can lead to incomplete applications or misunderstandings about the program's requirements and scope.

  2. Omitting necessary details: The application form requires detailed information about income, household size, and legal issues. Failure to provide all the requested details can result in delays or denial of the application.

  3. Forgetting to sign and date the application: This might seem like a small oversight, but an unsigned or undated form is considered incomplete and will not be processed until corrected.

  4. Including irrelevant documents: Applicants sometimes send additional documents along with their application in the hope of providing more context to their situation. However, the instructions explicitly state not to include any documents as they will not be returned.

  5. Not checking the email address provided: If an email address is given, communication regarding the application, including the referral, will be sent to this address. Failure to regularly check the provided email can lead to missed communications.

  6. Applying for issues not covered by the program: Since the Modest Means Program only covers specific legal matters, applying for assistance outside of these areas is a common mistake. This reinforces the importance of reviewing the types of matters eligible for the program before applying.

  7. Assuming instant acceptance into the program: Eligibility does not guarantee immediate pairing with a lawyer. Understanding that there's a qualification process and limited lawyer availability can set realistic expectations for applicants.

To improve the chances of a successful application, potential applicants should carefully review all instructions, ensure every part of the form is completed accurately, and provide only the information and documentation requested.

Documents used along the form

When individuals apply for assistance through the Oregon Modest Means Program, the process is designed to connect them with affordable legal services. However, this initial step is often just the beginning of a journey that requires various additional documents and forms. These documents are crucial for providing a more comprehensive picture of an applicant's legal and financial circumstances, ultimately aiding in the establishment of an effective attorney-client relationship. While the Modest Means Program form serves as a gateway, the following documents often play a pivotal role in the process:

  • Financial Statement and Disclosure Forms: These documents are essential for detailing an applicant's financial situation beyond the initial application. They may include more in-depth information about income, expenses, assets, and liabilities, helping to determine the level of reduced fees an individual qualifies for.
  • Legal Aid Application Forms: For applicants who may also be seeking assistance through legal aid organizations, these forms are vital. They gather similar, yet more detailed, information on financial status, legal issues, and eligibility for free or low-cost legal services.
  • Proof of Income Documents: Pay stubs, tax returns, and other documentation of income are often required to substantiate the financial information provided on the Modest Means Program application. These documents serve as proof of eligibility for the program's fee reductions.
  • Case-Specific Legal Documents: Depending on the nature of the legal matter, various legal documents may be necessary. These could include court notices, previous rulings or judgments, contracts, or correspondence related to the case. Such documents provide attorneys with crucial context and background information.
  • Retainer Agreement: If an applicant decides to hire a Modest Means lawyer, a retainer agreement will outline the terms of representation, including the reduced fee schedule, scope of services, and responsibilities of both the lawyer and client. This formal agreement solidifies the attorney-client relationship under the program's guidelines.

While navigating the legal landscape can be daunting, especially for those with modest means, the combination of the Modest Means Program and these supplementary documents and forms creates a pathway to accessing necessary legal services. By thoroughly and accurately completing such forms, individuals ensure that they are not only reaching out for help but also providing the framework for that assistance to be as effective as possible. Each of these documents plays a unique role in painting a full picture of the applicant's needs and circumstances, ultimately facilitating a more tailored and equitable legal assistance process.

Similar forms

  • Legal Aid Intake Forms:

    Similar to the Oregon Modest Means Program application, legal aid intake forms are designed to evaluate the financial eligibility of individuals seeking legal assistance. Both types of documents require detailed personal, income, and household information to determine if applicants qualify for reduced-cost or free legal services.

  • Lawyer Referral Service Applications:

    These applications, much like the one for the Modest Means Program, serve to connect individuals with lawyers who can assist them with their specific legal issues. Both ask for descriptions of the legal matter, and aim to match clients with attorneys based on legal need, location, and financial capability.

  • Financial Affidavit Forms for Court:

    Financial affidavits required in various court proceedings (e.g., family law cases) ask for similar detailed financial information as the Modest Means Program application. Both documents are used to assess individuals’ financial situations, though for different purposes—financial affidavits often relate to determining alimony, child support, or fee waivers.

  • Loan Assistance Program Forms:

    Forms for different types of loan assistance programs also collect comprehensive financial data from applicants, akin to the Modest Means application. Both seek to gauge the financial status of an individual to determine eligibility for financial aid or services.

  • Public Defender Application Forms:

    These forms are used by individuals accused of crimes to apply for a public defender or court-appointed attorney due to financial inability to afford private counsel. The information sought about income, expenses, and household size is similar to that required by the Modest Means Program to establish eligibility for reduced-fee legal services.

  • Social Service Eligibility Forms:

    Applications for social services like SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, or housing assistance require detailed financial and household information to determine if applicants meet the program eligibility criteria, mirroring the depth of financial inquiry found in the Modest Means Program form.

  • Scholarship Application Forms:

    Many scholarship applications assess financial need along with academic achievements or other criteria. These forms often request detailed income, assets, and household information to determine an applicant's financial need, mirroring the financial assessment aspect of the Modest Means Program application.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the Oregon Modest Means Program application, it is crucial to follow guidelines and provide accurate information to ensure the best chance of qualifying for the program. Below are recommendations for what applicants should and shouldn't do during this process.

What You Should Do:
  • Read all instructions carefully before completing the application. This ensures that you understand the requirements and the scope of assistance the program offers.
  • Provide complete and accurate information about your legal issue, household income, and assets. Thoroughness and honesty are essential for evaluating your eligibility accurately.
  • Sign and date your application. An unsigned or undated application is incomplete and will not be processed, delaying your access to legal assistance.
  • Check your email regularly after submission if you provide an email address. The Oregon State Bar uses email to communicate about your application status or to ask further questions.
What You Shouldn't Do:
  • Do not omit signing or dating the application. This is a common oversight that can lead to unnecessary delays in the processing of your application.
  • Do not include extraneous documents with your application unless specifically requested. Unrequested documents will not be returned and are unnecessary for the pre-qualification process.
  • Do not apply if both parties are not living in Oregon or if your legal matter does not fall within the specified case types the program handles (family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant, and foreclosure matters).
  • Avoid providing incomplete financial information. The evaluation of your application heavily depends on the detailed financial information you provide. Incomplete data can misrepresent your eligibility for the program.

Following these guidelines will help streamline the application process and enhance your chances of receiving the legal assistance you need through the Modest Means Program. Remember, the goal of the program is to connect Oregonians with affordable legal services, and the accuracy and completeness of your application are key to achieving this aim.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about the Oregon Modest Means Program that warrant clarification to ensure individuals seeking legal assistance have accurate information. Below are eight common misconceptions and explanations to dispel them:

  • It’s only for those who are unemployed or have no income: The program is actually designed for moderate-income Oregonians - those who earn too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford traditional legal fees.

  • Lawyers in the program will take any case for the reduced fee: Modest Means lawyers only handle certain kinds of cases, including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters. If your legal issue falls outside these areas, it will not be covered under the program.

  • Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis: While most applications are processed within one business day, eligibility is based on multiple factors, including the type and location of your legal matter, your income, assets, and the availability of participating lawyers in your area.

  • Once you are referred to a lawyer, they must take your case: The decision to take your case is between you and the lawyer after an initial consultation. Lawyers participating in the program are volunteers and retain the right to choose whether they will accept your case.

  • The program is free: It is not a free service. Clients must be able to pay $35 for an initial consultation and $60-$100 per hour for any work done beyond the initial consultation. It's important to demonstrate the ability to pay these fees when applying.

  • You can’t have a lawyer if you can’t pay upfront: While you will be asked to pay a retainer following the initial consultation, the amount is determined by the lawyer, who may take into account your financial situation. However, you must demonstrate some ability to pay for legal services.

  • Modest Means lawyers are less skilled than other lawyers: Participating lawyers are Oregon attorneys who have agreed to charge reduced rates to help fulfill the mission of the program. Their participation does not reflect on their competency or skill level.

  • If you live outside of Oregon or if the opposing party lives outside Oregon, you can still be referred through the program: Both parties must live in Oregon, and the legal matter must be in Oregon to be eligible for the Modest Means Program.

Understanding these aspects of the Oregon Modest Means Program can help potential applicants set realistic expectations and navigate the application process more effectively.

Key takeaways

Understanding the Oregon Modest Means Program form is crucial for Oregonians seeking affordable legal assistance. Here are nine key takeaways to guide you through filling out and using this form effectively:

  • The Modest Means Program was established to support moderate-income Oregonians who earn too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. Lawyers participating in the program agree to charge reduced rates.
  • Only certain types of legal matters are covered under the program, including specific family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant, and foreclosure issues. It's important to verify that your legal issue falls within these categories before applying.
  • To apply for assistance through the Modest Means Program, you must complete and submit the application form. Remember to sign and date your application, as incomplete forms will not be processed.
  • The program only accepts applications via fax, mail, or email (as PDFs). Ensure not to include any additional documents with your submission, as they will not be returned.
  • Eligibility for the program depends on several factors, including the nature and location of your legal issue, your income and assets, and the availability of participating lawyers in your area.
  • To be eligible for a referral to a Modest Means lawyer, both parties involved in the legal matter must reside in Oregon.
  • After your application is reviewed, you will be contacted regarding your pre-qualification status. If pre-qualified, you'll be given contact information for a lawyer who may require further details to confirm your eligibility.
  • The initial 30-minute consultation with a referred lawyer costs no more than $35, payable at the time of the meeting. Post-consultation, if further legal services are needed, rates will not exceed $60, $80, or $100 per hour, based on your financial situation.
  • While the program aims to connect individuals with affordable legal assistance, it cannot guarantee representation. The decision to take on a case lies with the individual lawyer.

By familiarizing yourself with these key takeaways and adhering to the outlined procedures, you can navigate the application process for the Oregon Modest Means Program more effectively, increasing your chances of securing affordable legal assistance.

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