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The Oregon Modest Means Program provides a vital resource for moderate-income individuals seeking legal assistance in various areas of law. Designed to bridge the gap for those who earn too much to qualify for traditional legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees, this program connects eligible clients with participating lawyers who offer reduced rates. The application form is essential for accessing these services and outlines the necessary steps to determine eligibility. It includes sections that require personal information, details about the legal matter, and financial disclosures to assess income and assets. Specific types of legal issues covered under the program include family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant disputes, and foreclosure matters. Applicants must complete the form accurately and submit it via fax, mail, or email to initiate the qualification process. Once submitted, the application will be reviewed, and applicants can expect to be contacted within one business day regarding their eligibility and potential referrals. Understanding the requirements and adhering to the application instructions is crucial, as incomplete submissions will delay processing. The program emphasizes that while it offers reduced legal fees, it is not a free legal service, and participants must be prepared to cover initial consultation costs and any subsequent fees based on their financial situation.
Oregon Modest Means Program Example
Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM
Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR
Voice: (503)
PLEASE READ BEFORE COMPLETING APPLICATION:
Oregon lawyers created the Modest Means Program 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
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
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Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM
Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR
Voice: (503)
Qualification Process: You will be contacted by email or telephone after your application has been reviewed. If you
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
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,
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)
Elsewhere in Oregon: (800)
Fax: (503)
Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page
Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR
Voice: (503)
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
OREGON STATE BAR MODEST MEANS PROGRAM, P.O. BOX 231935, TIGARD, OR
FAX: (503)
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 |
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 |
|
Coaching (General) |
|
Document Review |
Mobile Home (Tenant) |
|
Mobile Home (Landlord) |
In which city/county do you need assistance? |
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When is your next court date (if applicable)? |
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What is the name of the opposing party? |
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Does the opposing party have an attorney? |
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If yes, what is the attorney’s name? |
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Are both parties in Oregon? |
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Have you already consulted with an attorney? |
|
If yes, what is the attorney’s name? |
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Reason you are looking for another attorney: |
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|
Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page |
First Name |
Last Name |
Phone Number |
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 |
|
|
|
Amount in Retirement Plans (401k), |
|
|
mutual funds, securities, bonds, etc.: |
$ |
|
Other |
|
|
|
$ |
|
Total |
$ |
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 |
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Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page |
First Name |
Last Name |
Phone Number |
Briefly describe the legal matter for which you are seeking assistance:
File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Fact Description |
|---|---|
| Program Purpose | The Modest Means Program helps moderate-income Oregonians find affordable legal assistance. |
| Eligibility Criteria | Eligibility is based on income, assets, location, and the type of legal matter. |
| Application Process | Applicants must complete a public application form and submit it via fax, mail, or email. |
| Initial Consultation Fee | The initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35. |
| Hourly Rates | Lawyers charge $60, $80, or $100 per hour, depending on the client's income and assets. |
| Types of Matters | Lawyers handle family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant, and foreclosure matters. |
| Confidentiality | All information provided is confidential and protected by law. |
| Application Processing Time | Most applications are processed within one business day. |
| Lawyer Availability | There may not be a Modest Means lawyer in every county, affecting referrals. |
| Governing Law | The program operates under the Oregon State Bar guidelines and applicable state laws. |
Guide to Using Oregon Modest Means Program
Completing the Oregon Modest Means Program form is a straightforward process. Follow the steps carefully to ensure your application is complete and can be processed without delay. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, and you will be contacted regarding your eligibility and next steps.
- Download the Oregon Modest Means Program application form from the Oregon State Bar website or request a copy by calling the provided phone numbers.
- Fill out the form clearly. Include your first name, last name, address, city, zip code, phone number, and email address.
- Indicate the type of legal matter you need assistance with by checking the appropriate box. Ensure your matter falls within the specified areas of family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant, or foreclosure.
- Provide details about your legal matter, including the city or county where you need assistance, the name of the opposing party, and whether that party has an attorney.
- Disclose your household composition, including the number of adults and children living with you, and your marital status.
- Indicate whether you rent or own your home, and list any vehicles you own along with their estimated values.
- Detail your gross income per month from all sources, including wages, spousal support, child support, and other benefits.
- List any special expenses and debts you incur each month, such as medical expenses not covered by insurance, child care costs, and transportation expenses.
- Provide information about your liquid and non-liquid assets, including checking and savings account balances, retirement plans, and other investments.
- Answer whether you have submitted an application before and provide the date if applicable.
- Sign and date the application at the bottom. Your application will not be processed without a signature and date.
- Submit your completed application via fax, mail, or email (PDF only) to the Oregon State Bar Modest Means Program.
Get Answers on Oregon Modest Means Program
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What is the Oregon Modest Means Program?
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The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to assist moderate-income residents of Oregon in obtaining affordable legal assistance. It targets individuals who earn too much to qualify for free legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. Participating lawyers offer reduced rates for specific types of legal matters.
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What types of legal matters does the program cover?
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Modest Means lawyers handle specific types of cases, including:
- Family law (excluding appeals)
- Criminal defense (excluding capital charges or appeals)
- Landlord/tenant issues
- Foreclosure matters
If your legal issue does not fall within these categories, it is not eligible for assistance through the program.
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How do I apply for the Modest Means Program?
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To apply, complete the application form and submit it via fax, mail, or email to the Oregon State Bar. You can obtain the form by calling the provided phone numbers or downloading it from the bar’s website. Ensure that you sign and date your application; otherwise, it will not be processed.
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What are the eligibility requirements for the program?
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Eligibility is determined by several factors, including:
- The type and location of your legal matter
- Your income and assets
- Your residence in Oregon
- The availability of participating lawyers in your area
Both parties involved in the legal matter must reside in Oregon to qualify for assistance.
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What happens after I submit my application?
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Once your application is reviewed, you will be contacted via email or phone. If you pre-qualify, you will receive the name and contact information of a lawyer in your area. The lawyer will also review your application and may ask additional questions to confirm your eligibility.
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What are the fees associated with the program?
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The initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35. For any services beyond this consultation, the hourly rate will be capped at $60, $80, or $100, depending on your income and assets. Additional costs may include retainers and direct expenses such as court fees and photocopying.
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Can I choose not to hire the lawyer after the initial consultation?
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Yes, the decision to hire the lawyer after the initial consultation is entirely up to you and the lawyer. There is no obligation to proceed with representation, and the lawyer also has the discretion to accept or decline your case.
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What should I do if I cannot afford the fees?
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If you are unable to pay the fees associated with the Modest Means Program, you should contact your local legal aid office. The program does not provide free legal services, and it is important to explore other options if you cannot afford the costs.
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How long does it take to process my application?
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Most applications are processed within one business day. If you provide an email address, you will receive updates or questions regarding your application through that email. It is advisable to check your email regularly during this period.
Common mistakes
Filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form can be a straightforward process, but there are common mistakes that applicants often make. One significant error is not providing complete information. Each section of the application is designed to gather specific details about your situation. Incomplete applications can lead to delays or outright rejection, as the program requires comprehensive data to assess eligibility.
Another frequent mistake involves failing to sign and date the application. This simple oversight can halt the processing of your application entirely. Without a signature, the program cannot verify that the information is accurate and that you consent to the terms outlined. It is crucial to double-check that both your signature and the date are included before submission.
Many applicants also neglect to clarify their financial situation accurately. Misreporting income or assets can result in disqualification from the program. It is essential to provide precise figures for all sources of income and to explain any assistance you may receive from others. This transparency ensures that the program can evaluate your eligibility fairly.
In addition, some individuals mistakenly include extra documents with their application. The guidelines explicitly state that no additional paperwork should accompany the form. Any documents submitted will not be returned, and including them can complicate the review process.
Another common error is misunderstanding the eligibility criteria. Applicants sometimes assume that any legal matter qualifies for assistance. However, the Modest Means Program only covers specific areas of law, such as family law and landlord-tenant disputes. If your issue is outside these categories, your application will not be processed.
Failing to provide a valid email address can also hinder the application process. The program communicates via email to inform applicants of their status and any necessary follow-up. Without an email address, you may miss critical information regarding your application or referral.
Some applicants overlook the importance of detailing their legal matter clearly. The form asks for a brief description of the issue, and vague or unclear descriptions can lead to confusion. Providing a clear and concise explanation will help the program understand your needs better.
Finally, applicants sometimes forget to check their email accounts regularly after submission. The program aims to process applications quickly, often within one business day. However, if you do not monitor your email, you may miss important communications about your application or referral. Staying attentive to your email can facilitate a smoother experience in the program.
Documents used along the form
The Oregon Modest Means Program provides an essential service for individuals who need legal assistance but may not qualify for traditional legal aid. Along with the application form, several other documents are often utilized in conjunction with the program. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in the application and qualification process.
- Income Verification Documents: These documents include pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. They help establish your financial situation and determine your eligibility for reduced legal fees.
- Asset Disclosure Form: This form outlines your assets, such as property, vehicles, and savings. It assists in assessing your overall financial health and capability to pay for legal services.
- Legal Matter Description: A brief description of the legal issue you are facing. This helps the program identify the appropriate type of legal assistance needed.
- Proof of Residency: Documents like utility bills or lease agreements confirm your residency in Oregon, which is a requirement for program eligibility.
- Opposing Party Information: This includes details about the other party involved in your legal matter, such as their name and whether they have legal representation.
- Previous Attorney Consultation Records: If you have consulted with another attorney, records of those consultations may be requested to provide context for your current legal needs.
- Special Expenses Documentation: This may include records of medical expenses, child care costs, or transportation expenses that impact your financial situation.
- Retainer Agreement: If you proceed with a Modest Means lawyer, this document outlines the terms of payment and services to be provided, ensuring clarity on both sides.
These documents collectively support your application and help streamline the process of obtaining legal assistance through the Oregon Modest Means Program. Understanding their roles can enhance your experience and increase the likelihood of receiving the help you need.
Similar forms
- Legal Aid Application Form: Similar to the Modest Means Program form, this document is designed for individuals seeking financial assistance for legal representation. Both forms require detailed personal and financial information to assess eligibility.
- Pro Bono Application Form: This document also serves individuals who cannot afford legal fees. Like the Modest Means Program, it requires applicants to provide information about their income and legal issues to determine eligibility for free legal services.
- Divorce Petition: A divorce petition outlines the legal grounds for dissolution of marriage. Both forms require personal information and details about the marital situation, although the divorce petition is more focused on the legal claims.
- Child Custody Application: This document is used to seek custody arrangements for children. Similar to the Modest Means Program form, it asks for details about the parties involved and their financial circumstances to assess the situation.
- Landlord-Tenant Dispute Form: This form is used to address issues between landlords and tenants. Both documents require specifics about the parties and the nature of the dispute, making them similar in structure and purpose.
- Small Claims Court Filing: This document initiates a claim in small claims court. Like the Modest Means Program form, it collects information about the parties and the nature of the claim, although it is more focused on the specifics of the case.
- Bankruptcy Petition: This form is used to file for bankruptcy protection. Both the bankruptcy petition and the Modest Means Program form require financial disclosures to assess the applicant's situation and eligibility for assistance.
- Power of Attorney Form: This document grants authority to another person to act on one’s behalf. Similar to the Modest Means Program form, it requires personal information but focuses more on the relationship between the parties involved.
- Will and Testament: A will outlines the distribution of an individual’s assets after death. While the focus is different, both documents require personal information and an understanding of the individual's circumstances.
- Restraining Order Application: This document is filed to seek protection from another individual. Similar to the Modest Means Program form, it requires detailed information about the parties and the nature of the situation to evaluate eligibility for assistance.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure your application is processed efficiently. Here are seven things you should and shouldn't do:
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting the application.
- Do fill out the application completely and accurately.
- Do sign and date your application to avoid delays.
- Do provide a valid email address for communication purposes.
- Don't include any additional documents with your application, as they will not be returned.
- Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Don't assume eligibility; be aware that not all legal matters are covered by the program.
Misconceptions
- Misconception 1: The Modest Means Program is a free legal service.
- Misconception 2: All legal matters qualify for assistance under the program.
- Misconception 3: Once you apply, you will definitely be matched with a lawyer.
- Misconception 4: You can submit additional documents with your application.
- Misconception 5: The initial consultation guarantees representation.
- Misconception 6: The program is only for residents of specific areas in Oregon.
This program is not a pro bono service. Clients must pay for the initial consultation, which costs up to $35, and subsequent legal fees that range from $60 to $100 per hour, depending on income and assets.
The program only covers specific types of cases, including certain family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters. If your legal issue is not listed, it is not eligible for assistance.
There is no guarantee of being referred to a lawyer, even if you pre-qualify. The availability of participating lawyers is limited, and there may not be one in your county.
Even after the initial consultation, hiring the lawyer is a mutual decision. Modest Means lawyers are volunteers and can choose whether or not to take your case.
While the program serves individuals in Oregon, both parties involved in the legal matter must reside in Oregon for eligibility. If one party lives outside of Oregon, the application will not qualify.
Key takeaways
Here are some important points to keep in mind when filling out and using the Oregon Modest Means Program form:
- Purpose of the Program: The Modest Means Program aims to assist moderate-income individuals in Oregon who need legal help but cannot afford standard fees.
- Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility depends on your income, assets, and the type of legal matter. Both parties must reside in Oregon for the program to apply.
- Application Submission: Complete the application form and submit it via fax, mail, or email. Ensure that you sign and date the application.
- Review Process: Most applications are processed within one business day. You will be contacted via email or phone regarding your eligibility.
- Consultation Fees: The initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35. This fee is payable at the time of the meeting.
- Hourly Rates: If you proceed with a lawyer, hourly rates range from $60 to $100, depending on your financial situation.
- No Guarantees: Even if you pre-qualify, there is no guarantee that a lawyer will be available or willing to take your case.
- Confidentiality: All information provided in the application is confidential and used solely for legal assistance purposes.