Modest Means Sign-up

Be a Modest Means Lawyer

Interested in helping clients for a reduced rate?

The Modest Means Lawyer Referral Program helps Utahns retain a lawyer when they are not eligible for pro bono but also cannot pay full-priced attorney fees. By signing up to be a Modest Means lawyer, you receive referrals from people seeking representation at a reduced rate. You can supplement your clientele with paying clients if you agree to charge lower rates.

Benefits of the Program

Free client referrals on a rotational basis by location and practice area
Pre-screening for financial eligibility, legal need, and geographic location
Free CLE programs for modest means lawyers

Program Rules

To participate as a Modest Means lawyer, you must agree to carry malpractice insurance, be in good standing, abide by all program rules, and accept cases at a reduced rate for qualifying participants. You will meet with potential clients and mutually decide whether representation will occur. You will accept cases constrained by either reduced rates or fixed fees according to the following schedule:

Income Eligibility

Hourly Rate

Flat Fee

Income between 125% and 200% of the poverty level.

Up to $50 per hour

Up to 35% of the usual rate you charge for the same service

Income between 200% and 300% of the poverty level.

Up to $75 per hour

Up to 50% of the usual rate you charge for the same service

Complete Rules for the Modest Means Program

Core Principles

The Program will focus on the most common practice areas needed by people qualifying for the Modest Means Program: family law, debt collection, housing, criminal defense, employment, and estate planning. Other areas will be offered as available.
Prospective clients who are eligible will be given two referrals. These will include the name and contact information for Modest Means lawyers who accept cases in the pertinent location and practice type.
Incomes are based on gross household income, including earned and unearned income. Child support and alimony payments are the only expenses that may be deducted from gross income to determine eligibility. The client’s liquid assets may be considered when determining the ability to pay restitution or other applicable fees related to their case, and court orders when necessary. As the referred Modest Means lawyer, you make the final eligibility determination. The program is free for lawyers. Prospective clients pay $25 for the referrals to cover the administrative costs of the program.
The program is free for lawyers. Prospective clients pay $25 for the referrals to cover the administrative costs of the program.
After offering an initial consultation, you are not obligated to accept the referred client. Likewise, the client is not required to retain your services. If you mutually agree to work together, then you will prepare a written representation agreement (to which the Utah State Bar is not a party).