Oregon Modest Means Program PDF Template

The Oregon Modest Means Program form is a public application designed to assist moderate-income residents of Oregon in accessing affordable legal services. Created by Oregon lawyers, the program connects individuals who earn too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford traditional legal fees with attorneys willing to provide services at reduced rates. To begin the process, interested individuals must complete the application form, which can be submitted via fax, mail, or email.

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Article Guide

The Oregon Modest Means Program serves as a vital resource for individuals and families who find themselves in need of legal assistance but may not qualify for traditional legal aid. Designed specifically for those with moderate incomes, this program connects eligible applicants with lawyers who offer their services at reduced rates. The application form is a crucial first step in this process, requiring potential clients to provide information about their legal matters, income, and assets. It is important to note that the program focuses on specific areas of law, including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant disputes, and foreclosure issues. To apply, individuals must complete the form accurately and submit it through various channels, such as fax, mail, or email. Once submitted, applications are typically processed within one business day, and applicants will be contacted regarding their eligibility. If pre-qualified, they will receive a referral to a Modest Means lawyer who will conduct an initial consultation for a nominal fee. While the program aims to make legal help more accessible, it is essential for applicants to understand that it is not a pro bono service; participants must be able to pay for legal fees, albeit at a reduced rate. The application form is designed to gather all necessary information while ensuring confidentiality, and it serves as a pathway to obtaining the legal support needed to navigate various challenges.

Oregon Modest Means Program Preview

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 DJUHHWRFKDUJHUHGXFHG 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

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. Y

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

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 infor

mation

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)

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/3

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:

Criminal Law (No Capital Charges or Appeals)

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

First Name Last Name

Phone Number E-mail Address

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)

Liquid Assets

Wages:

Checking Account Balance

Spousal Support:

Savings Account Balance

Child Support:

Money Market/Other Account

Veteran's Benefit:

Total Liquid Assets:

Unemployment:

SSI/SSD:

Non-liquid Assets

TANF (not SNAP):

Amount in Retirement Plans (401k),

Public Benefits, Aid, SNAP:

mutual funds, securities, bonds, etc.:

Retirement/Investment Income:

Other non-liquid assets (please specify):

Other income (please specify):

Total Gross Income:

Total Non-liquid Assets:

Special Expenses & Debts

(Per Month)

Partner/Family Members in Household :

(Gross Income

per month)

Medical

2(see explanation below)

Child Care

3(see explanation below)

Name Relationship

Transportation

4(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:

(Please estimate, if separated.)

Ordinary 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.

“Medical” refers to medical expenses that are not covered by insurance.

“Child Care” refers to costs incurred while a parent is at work.

“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

BELOW IS FOR OFFICE USE ONLY

Eligible:

Y N

Tier: 1 2 3 $ /hour Notes:

(rev. 5/18

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

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

First Name Last Name

Phone Number E-mail Address

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

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

↓ Oregon Modest Means Program

File Properties

Fact Name	Details
Program Purpose	The Modest Means Program assists moderate-income Oregonians in accessing affordable legal help, bridging the gap between legal aid and traditional legal fees.
Eligibility Criteria	Eligibility depends on income, assets, the nature of the legal matter, and whether both parties reside in Oregon.
Types of Legal Matters	Participating lawyers handle specific family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant, and foreclosure cases only.
Application Process	Applicants must complete and submit the application form, ensuring all sections are filled out and signed. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Consultation Fee	An initial consultation costs $35, with subsequent legal fees ranging from $60 to $100 per hour based on income and assets.
Governing Law	The Modest Means Program operates under the Oregon State Bar guidelines, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with state laws.

Instructions on Utilizing Oregon Modest Means Program

Filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form is an essential step toward obtaining affordable legal assistance. Once you complete and submit the form, your application will be reviewed, and you will be contacted regarding your eligibility and potential referral to a participating lawyer.

Download the Oregon Modest Means Program application form from the Oregon State Bar website or request it by calling the provided phone numbers.
Print the form clearly or type your responses to ensure legibility.
Fill in your personal information, including 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 boxes. Make sure your matter falls within the specified areas of law.
Provide details about your household, including the number of adults and children living with you.
Specify your marital status and whether you and your spouse live together.
Indicate whether you rent or own your home and provide details about any additional properties.
List the make, year, model, and estimated value of any vehicles you own.
Report your gross income from all sources for the month, including wages, spousal support, child support, and any other income.
Detail any special expenses and debts you incur each month, as well as your liquid and non-liquid assets.
Answer questions regarding any prior applications submitted and certify that all information provided is accurate by signing and dating the form.
Submit your completed application via fax, mail, or email to the Oregon State Bar at the contact information provided on the form.

Important Facts about Oregon Modest Means Program

What is the Oregon Modest Means Program?

The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to help people in Oregon who have moderate incomes find affordable legal assistance. This program is for individuals who earn too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford the typical fees charged by lawyers. Participating lawyers agree to charge reduced rates for their services. The program focuses on specific legal matters, including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure cases.

How do I apply for the Modest Means Program?

To apply, you need to complete the Modest Means Program application form. You can obtain this form by calling the provided phone number or downloading it from the Oregon State Bar's website. Once completed, submit your application via fax, mail, or email (in PDF format only). Make sure to sign and date your application, as it will not be processed without these steps. Do not send any additional documents, as they will not be returned. Most applications are processed within one business day.

What are the eligibility requirements for the Modest Means Program?

Eligibility for the Modest Means Program depends on several factors, including your income, assets, the type of legal matter, and the availability of participating lawyers in your area. It is important to note that both parties involved in the legal matter must reside in Oregon. If one party lives outside of Oregon, you will not qualify for the program. Additionally, there is a limited number of lawyers available, so even if you pre-qualify, a lawyer may not be available in your county.

What are the costs associated with the Modest Means Program?

There is an initial consultation fee of up to $35 for a 30-minute meeting with a Modest Means lawyer. If you choose to continue with the lawyer after this consultation, the hourly rate will range from $60 to $100, depending on your income and assets. You will also be required to pay a retainer fee, which is determined by the lawyer based on the expected work needed for your case. Additional costs, such as court fees and other expenses, will also apply. It is important to understand that this program is not free, and you should be prepared to cover these costs.

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 frequent error is not signing or dating the application. If the application is not signed and dated, it cannot be processed, which can lead to unnecessary delays in receiving legal assistance.

Another mistake involves providing incomplete information. Applicants may overlook sections or fail to fill in all required fields. This can result in the application being deemed incomplete and consequently not processed. Taking the time to double-check the form for completeness is essential.

Additionally, applicants sometimes fail to clarify their legal matter adequately. The form specifies that only certain types of cases are eligible for the program. If the area of law needed is not listed, it is crucial to understand that assistance cannot be provided. Applicants should review the types of matters carefully before submitting.

Some individuals mistakenly include additional documents with their application. The instructions clearly state that no extra documents should be sent, as they will not be returned. Sticking strictly to the application form helps streamline the process.

Another common oversight is not providing a current email address. The program communicates via email, and without an accurate address, applicants may miss important updates regarding their application or referrals. Ensuring that the email provided is checked regularly can prevent missed communications.

Moreover, applicants may miscalculate their income or assets. It is vital to report gross income accurately and to include all relevant sources. Misrepresentation, whether intentional or accidental, can lead to disqualification from the program.

Some applicants do not clearly state their household composition. Understanding what constitutes a household is essential, as it impacts eligibility. Listing all individuals who share income and expenses helps in assessing the financial situation accurately.

Lastly, applicants might not fully grasp the fees associated with the program. While the initial consultation is affordable, understanding the subsequent costs is crucial. If an applicant cannot afford the fees, they should seek legal aid options instead. Being transparent about financial capabilities is important for a successful application.

Documents used along the form

The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to assist individuals with moderate incomes in accessing affordable legal services. In addition to the application form, several other documents may be relevant in the process of obtaining legal assistance. Below is a list of these forms and a brief description of each.

Income Verification Documents: These documents may include pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements that demonstrate your financial situation. They help establish eligibility for the program based on income levels.
Asset Disclosure Form: This form provides information about your assets, such as property, vehicles, and savings. It is essential for determining your financial capacity to pay for legal services.
Legal Matter Description Form: A detailed account of the legal issue you are facing. This helps the program assess whether your matter falls within the scope of services offered by Modest Means lawyers.
Consultation Agreement: This document outlines the terms of your initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer. It typically includes the consultation fee and expectations for the meeting.
Retainer Agreement: If you decide to hire a Modest Means lawyer, this agreement specifies the terms of your engagement, including retainer fees and hourly rates for ongoing legal work.
Confidentiality Agreement: A document that ensures the confidentiality of the information shared during your consultations and throughout your legal representation.
Referral Confirmation: After your application is processed, this document confirms the lawyer to whom you have been referred, along with their contact information.
Feedback Form: A form that allows you to provide feedback on your experience with the Modest Means Program and the lawyer you consulted, helping improve future services.

Understanding these documents can help streamline your experience with the Oregon Modest Means Program. Each plays a crucial role in ensuring that you receive the appropriate legal assistance tailored to your needs. If you have questions about any of these forms, do not hesitate to reach out for guidance.

Similar forms

The Oregon Modest Means Program application form shares similarities with several other legal and assistance-related documents. Each of these forms serves a specific purpose in facilitating access to legal services or assistance. Here’s a detailed look at nine documents that resemble the Modest Means Program form:

Legal Aid Application Form: This form is used by individuals seeking free or low-cost legal assistance from legal aid organizations. Like the Modest Means Program, it assesses eligibility based on income and legal needs.
Pro Bono Program Application: Designed for individuals who cannot afford legal fees, this application connects clients with volunteer attorneys. Similar to the Modest Means Program, it requires applicants to provide personal and financial information to determine eligibility.
Public Defender Application: Individuals facing criminal charges may fill out this form to request representation from a public defender. It evaluates the applicant's financial situation, akin to the Modest Means Program's income assessment.
Family Law Assistance Form: This document is utilized by those seeking help with family law issues, such as custody or divorce. It often requires detailed personal information and outlines the types of cases handled, similar to the Modest Means Program.
Legal Services Corporation Application: This form is for individuals applying for assistance from the Legal Services Corporation, which funds legal aid programs. It shares the same focus on income eligibility and legal matter types as the Modest Means Program.
Tenant Rights Assistance Application: Tenants seeking legal help regarding landlord disputes may complete this form. It collects information on the tenant's situation and financial status, paralleling the Modest Means Program's approach.
Child Support Modification Request: This document is used to request changes in child support agreements. It requires detailed financial disclosures and information about the parties involved, much like the Modest Means Program form.
Bankruptcy Petition: Individuals filing for bankruptcy must complete this form, which collects comprehensive financial information. The focus on financial circumstances aligns closely with the Modest Means Program's eligibility criteria.
Divorce Petition: This legal document initiates divorce proceedings and requires personal and financial details. Its purpose and information requirements are similar to those found in the Modest Means Program application.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are six things you should and shouldn't do:

Do complete the application form fully. Make sure every section is filled out accurately.
Don't forget to sign and date your application. An unsigned or undated application will not be processed.
Do provide your email address if possible. This allows for quicker communication regarding your application.
Don't include any additional documents with your application. Any extra materials sent will not be returned.
Do ensure that both parties involved in the legal matter reside in Oregon. This is crucial for eligibility.
Don't assume that you will be referred to a lawyer. Availability of Modest Means lawyers can vary by location.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: The Modest Means Program is a free legal service.

This program is not free. While it offers reduced rates, clients must still pay for services, including a $35 initial consultation fee and hourly rates that can reach up to $100.

Misconception 2: Anyone can apply for the Modest Means Program.

Eligibility is limited. Applicants must meet specific income and asset criteria, and their legal matter must fall within the program’s designated areas of law.

Misconception 3: Once you apply, you are guaranteed a lawyer.

There is no guarantee of legal representation. The program has a limited number of participating lawyers, and availability can vary by location.

Misconception 4: You can include additional documents with your application.

Do not send any extra documents. Only the completed application will be processed. Any additional materials will not be returned.

Misconception 5: All legal matters are accepted under the program.

The program only covers specific types of cases, such as family law and landlord-tenant issues. If your matter is not listed, it is not eligible.

Misconception 6: The initial consultation is free.

The initial 30-minute consultation costs $35. This fee is required at the time of the meeting with the lawyer.

Misconception 7: You can choose any lawyer you want.

The program refers you to a lawyer based on your location and eligibility. You cannot select any lawyer outside of the program.

Misconception 8: You will receive immediate assistance after applying.

While most applications are processed within one business day, there may be delays. You should check your email for updates regarding your application.

Misconception 9: The program is the same as legal aid.

The Modest Means Program is distinct from legal aid services. It is designed for those who earn too much for legal aid but still need affordable legal help.

Key takeaways

The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to provide affordable legal assistance to individuals who earn too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out and using the program's application form:

Eligibility Criteria: Ensure that both parties involved in the legal matter reside in Oregon. The program only assists with specific types of cases, including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters.
Application Process: Complete the application form accurately and submit it via fax, mail, or email. Remember to sign and date the form; otherwise, it will not be processed.
Initial Consultation Fees: If referred to a Modest Means lawyer, you will need to pay a consultation fee of no more than $35 for a 30-minute meeting. This payment is due at the time of the consultation.
Lawyer Availability: There is a limited number of Modest Means lawyers in the program, and it is possible that no lawyer may be available in your county, even if you pre-qualify.
Legal Fees: After the initial consultation, lawyers will charge reduced rates of $60, $80, or $100 per hour based on your income and assets. Be prepared to pay a retainer upfront, as well as any court fees and additional costs.
Confidentiality Assurance: All information provided in the application will be treated confidentially, ensuring that your personal details remain secure throughout the process.

Understanding these key points can help you navigate the application process more effectively and ensure that you receive the assistance you need.