Some lawyers offer what is known as a “limited scope retainer”. A limited scope retainer is an arrangement where a lawyer agrees to provide legal services for only part of a client’s legal matter, rather than handling the entire case. You remain responsible for the rest of the case. It is important to note that not all lawyers offer a limited scope retainer.
A lawyer most commonly handles all aspects of a legal matter. Under a limited scope retainer, the lawyer provides help only with specific tasks—for example, giving legal advice, drafting a document or appearing in court for a single hearing. You handle the remaining tasks yourself.
Generally, any case that can be broken down into smaller tasks can be handled on a limited basis. Examples of tasks that may be included are:
It is important to note that not all matters are suitable and not all lawyers offer limited-scope services.
The lawyer must confirm in writing what services they will provide under a limited scope retainer. It is a good idea to ensure you have a written agreement which outlines:
The agreement should be clear and comprehensive. Make sure you review any agreement carefully before signing.
Because the lawyer is only handling specific parts of your legal matter, you are responsible for everything outside of the limited scope retainer. For example:
This list is not exhaustive. It is important to discuss with your lawyer what they will and will not handle to ensure you fully understand the extent of your responsibilities.
Because the lawyer is not handling the entire matter, total costs are often lower than when a lawyer provides all the legal services for your file. Lawyers generally charge either a fixed fee or an hourly rate.
No matter the fee structure, the lawyer must explain the fees and how they will be calculated.
Yes. If your situation changes or becomes more complex, you and the lawyer may agree to:
Any change to your agreement must be confirmed in writing. It is important to remember that the lawyer is not necessarily obligated to assist with tasks outside what they first agreed to take on.
Courts in Newfoundland and Labrador do permit lawyers to appear for specific steps of a case. The lawyer may need to advise the court and others of the nature of their limited involvement for that appearance. You will still represent yourself for the remaining steps.
Common advantages of a limited scope retainer include:
It is important to note that not all matters are suitable for a limited scope retainer.
Because you will manage some or most of your case on your own, risks may include:
It is important to be honest with yourself about the tasks you can confidently and competently handle on your own.
Suitability depends on factors such as:
A lawyer can help you decide whether a limited scope retainer is appropriate based on your circumstances.
A lawyer remains responsible for providing competent and professional service for any task they agree to perform. You remain responsible for the portions of the case that are outside the scope of the agreement with your lawyer.
To get started, you can contact a lawyer who offers limited scope retainers and discuss which tasks you need help with.
To find out which lawyers provide limited scope retainers, go to the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Lawyer Directory (https://lsnl.memberpro.net/main/body.cfm) and click the “Advanced Search” option. Under “Practice Areas”, choose the area of law relevant to your legal matter, then select “Limited Scope Retainers” within that section, then click “Search”. Lawyers who offer limited scope retainers in that area will appear in the results below.
Lawyers must confirm in writing what services they will provide in a limited scope retainer. One way to do this is to have a written retainer agreement. A written agreement helps ensure that both you and the lawyer clearly understand:
Putting the agreement in writing protects both you and the lawyer by reducing misunderstandings and setting clear expectations from the start.
(Posted: June 29, 2026)