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Blank Oregon Modest Means Program PDF Form

The Oregon Modest Means Program form is an application designed to connect moderate-income individuals with affordable legal assistance. This program serves those who earn too much for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. By completing this form, you take the first step toward accessing reduced-rate legal services tailored to your needs.

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Blank Oregon Modest Means Program PDF Form

Content Overview

The Oregon Modest Means Program is a valuable resource designed to assist moderate-income individuals in accessing affordable legal services. This program specifically targets those who earn too much to qualify for traditional legal aid but still struggle with the high costs of legal representation. To benefit from this program, applicants must complete the Modest Means Program form, which serves as the gateway to receiving legal assistance. The form requires personal information, including income, assets, and details about the legal matter at hand. It is crucial to note that the program covers specific areas of law, such as family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters. After submission, applications are typically processed within one business day, and applicants will be contacted regarding their eligibility. If pre-qualified, individuals will be referred to a participating lawyer who has agreed to charge reduced rates. The initial consultation is priced at a maximum of $35, and subsequent services are billed at a reduced hourly rate based on the applicant's financial situation. This program is not a pro bono service; therefore, applicants must demonstrate the ability to pay for legal fees. Understanding the eligibility criteria and the application process is essential for those seeking help through the Modest Means Program.

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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)

➤ PDF File

Form Specifications

Fact Name	Details
Program Purpose	The Modest Means Program assists moderate-income Oregonians in accessing affordable legal services.
Eligibility Criteria	Eligibility is determined by income, assets, type of legal matter, and the availability of participating lawyers in Oregon.
Application Process	Applicants must complete and submit a public application form via fax, mail, or email. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Consultation Fee	The initial 30-minute consultation costs no more than $35, payable at the time of the meeting.
Hourly Rates	Lawyers charge between $60 and $100 per hour for services beyond the initial consultation, based on the client's income and assets.
Types of Legal Matters	Modest Means lawyers handle specific areas including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters.
Confidentiality	All information provided in the application is confidential and used solely for legal service purposes, unless required by law.
Governing Law	This program operates under the regulations set forth by the Oregon State Bar.

Oregon Modest Means Program: Usage Guidelines

Completing the Oregon Modest Means Program form is a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is filled out correctly and submitted for review. After submitting your application, you will receive further instructions based on your eligibility and the availability of participating lawyers.

Download the application form from the Oregon State Bar website or request a copy by calling the provided phone numbers.
Print the form clearly or type your responses directly into the document.
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 from the options provided.
Specify the city or county where you require legal help.
Provide details about the opposing party, including their name and whether they have an attorney.
Answer questions regarding your household composition, marital status, and housing situation.
Report your gross income and list any special expenses or debts.
Detail your liquid and non-liquid assets, including bank account balances and property values.
If applicable, provide information about any previous applications you may have submitted.
Sign and date the application to confirm the accuracy of the information provided.
Submit your completed application via fax, mail, or email as specified in the instructions.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the Oregon Modest Means Program?

The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to assist moderate-income individuals in finding affordable legal representation. It targets those who earn too much to qualify for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. Participating lawyers offer reduced rates for specific legal matters, including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters.

Who is eligible to apply for the Modest Means Program?

Eligibility is determined by several factors, including your income, assets, the type and location of your legal matter, and the availability of participating lawyers in your area. Both parties involved in the legal matter must reside in Oregon, and the matter must also be within the state. If both parties do not live in Oregon, eligibility is not granted.

How do I apply for the Modest Means Program?

To apply, you must complete the application form and submit it via fax, mail, or email (PDFs only). You can obtain the application from the Oregon State Bar's website or by calling the provided phone numbers. Ensure that you sign and date the application, as incomplete submissions will not be processed. Do not include any additional documents, as they will not be returned.

What is the cost of the initial consultation?

The initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35. This fee is payable at the time of your appointment. After the consultation, if you decide to hire the lawyer, their hourly rates will be based on your income and assets, ranging from $60 to $100 per hour.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once your application is reviewed, you will be contacted by email or phone. If you pre-qualify, you will receive the name and contact information of a lawyer in your area. The referred lawyer will review your application and may ask additional questions to confirm your eligibility. Ultimately, the lawyer has the final decision regarding your qualification for the program.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

In addition to the initial consultation fee, you may incur further costs for legal services beyond the consultation. You will also be responsible for any court fees and direct costs associated with your case, such as phone charges and photocopying. The Modest Means Program is not a pro bono service; you must demonstrate the ability to pay for these fees.

Can I hire the lawyer referred to me?

Whether you choose to hire the lawyer after your initial consultation is entirely up to you and the lawyer. There is no guarantee that the lawyer will accept your case, as all Modest Means lawyers are volunteers and have the right to decide which cases they take on.

What types of legal matters does the Modest Means Program cover?

The program specifically covers certain areas of law, including family law (excluding appeals), criminal defense (excluding capital charges), landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters. If your legal issue falls outside these categories, it will not be eligible for assistance through the program.

What should I do if I cannot afford the fees associated with the Modest Means Program?

If you find that you cannot afford the fees required by the Modest Means Program, it is recommended to contact your local legal aid office. The Oregon State Bar does not provide referrals for pro bono lawyers, so seeking assistance from legal aid may be your best option.

Common mistakes

Incomplete Application: One of the most common mistakes is not filling out the application completely. Each section is crucial for determining eligibility, and missing information can lead to delays or outright rejection.
Failure to Sign and Date: Applicants often overlook the importance of signing and dating the application. Without these, the form cannot be processed, and the applicant may miss out on potential legal assistance.
Not Providing Accurate Income Information: Many people mistakenly underestimate or overestimate their income and assets. Providing inaccurate figures can affect eligibility and lead to disqualification from the program.
Ignoring Eligibility Requirements: Some applicants fail to consider the specific eligibility criteria, such as the requirement that both parties must reside in Oregon. Ignoring this can result in wasted time and effort.
Including Additional Documents: Applicants sometimes attach extra documents, thinking they will help their case. However, the program explicitly states that any additional materials will not be returned and may complicate the application process.

Documents used along the form

The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to assist individuals with moderate incomes who require legal help but cannot afford the typical fees associated with hiring an attorney. When applying to this program, several other forms and documents may be necessary to facilitate the process. Understanding these additional documents can help streamline your application and ensure you meet all requirements.

Income Verification Documents: These may include recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. Such documents help demonstrate your financial situation and ensure you qualify for the program based on income thresholds.
Asset Disclosure Form: This form outlines your assets, including property, vehicles, and savings. It is essential for determining your eligibility and understanding your financial capacity to pay for legal services.
Household Information Form: This document collects details about all members of your household, including their income and expenses. It is crucial for assessing the overall financial picture and how it may affect your eligibility.
Legal Matter Description: A brief summary of the legal issue you are facing is often required. This helps the program staff understand your needs and match you with an appropriate attorney.
Previous Attorney Consultation Record: If you have consulted with other attorneys regarding your case, you may need to provide their names and any relevant information. This helps clarify your legal history and the context of your current needs.
Application for Legal Aid Services: If you have applied for other legal aid services, documentation of that application may be necessary. This helps ensure that you are exploring all available resources for legal assistance.

Being aware of these documents can significantly enhance your experience with the Oregon Modest Means Program. By preparing them in advance, you can expedite the application process and increase your chances of receiving the legal support you need.

Similar forms

Legal Aid Application Form: Similar to the Modest Means Program form, this document helps individuals apply for free or low-cost legal services based on their income and legal needs. Both require detailed financial information to assess eligibility.
Pro Bono Program Application: Like the Modest Means Program, this application connects individuals with lawyers willing to provide free legal services. Both forms emphasize the importance of qualifying based on financial status.
Retainer Agreement: This document outlines the terms of payment and services between a client and attorney. Both the retainer agreement and the Modest Means Program form discuss costs and the client's financial responsibilities.
Client Intake Form: This is used by law firms to gather essential information about a potential client. Similar to the Modest Means Program form, it collects personal and financial details to determine the best course of action.
Fee Agreement: This document specifies the fees for legal services. Like the Modest Means Program, it explains the payment structure and what clients can expect to pay based on their financial situation.
Confidentiality Agreement: Both the Modest Means Program form and confidentiality agreements ensure that the information shared by clients remains private, highlighting the importance of trust in the attorney-client relationship.
Eligibility Questionnaire: Similar to the Modest Means Program, this document assesses whether an individual meets specific criteria for legal assistance. Both require comprehensive information about the individual's circumstances and legal matters.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form, there are several important dos and don'ts to keep in mind. This will help ensure your application is processed smoothly.

Do read the instructions carefully before starting the application.
Do provide accurate and complete information about your income and assets.
Do sign and date your application to avoid delays.
Do check your email regularly for any updates or questions regarding your application.
Don't include any additional documents with your application; they will not be returned.
Don't submit your application without ensuring all sections are filled out completely.
Don't assume you will be referred to a lawyer; availability may vary by location.

Misconceptions

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

Many people believe that the Modest Means Program offers free legal assistance. However, this is not the case. While the program provides reduced rates for legal services, clients are still required to pay for consultations and any subsequent legal work. The initial consultation costs $35, and hourly rates can range from $60 to $100 depending on income and assets.

Misconception 2: Anyone can apply for any type of legal issue.

Some individuals think that the program covers all legal matters. In reality, the Modest Means Program is limited to specific areas of law, including family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure matters. If your legal issue does not fall within these categories, you will not be able to receive assistance through this program.

Misconception 3: You will definitely be matched with a lawyer after applying.

Another common belief is that applying guarantees a referral to a lawyer. However, eligibility depends on several factors, including income, assets, and the availability of participating lawyers in your area. There may not be a Modest Means lawyer available in your county, even if you pre-qualify.

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

Some applicants think they can bolster their applications by submitting extra documents. The program explicitly states that no additional documents should be included. Any documents sent will not be returned, and failing to follow this guideline can delay the processing of your application.

Misconception 5: The consultation is a comprehensive legal service.

Many assume that the initial consultation is sufficient for ongoing legal representation. However, the 30-minute consultation is merely an opportunity to discuss your case and determine if the lawyer will take it on. The decision to hire the lawyer is mutual, and there is no guarantee that the lawyer will agree to represent you beyond this initial meeting.

Key takeaways

Key Takeaways for the Oregon Modest Means Program Form

The Modest Means Program helps moderate-income Oregonians access affordable legal assistance.
Eligibility depends on income, assets, the type of legal matter, and the availability of lawyers in your area.
Complete the application form fully, including your signature and date, to avoid processing delays.
Submit your application via fax, mail, or email, but do not include additional documents.
Most applications are processed within one business day; check your email for updates.
The initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35.
Hourly rates for services after the initial consultation range from $60 to $100, depending on your financial situation.
If you cannot pay the required fees, consider contacting your local legal aid office for assistance.