Rule 5.170.Limited Scope Representation
Current through August 1, 2026 · Last verified September 12, 2026
Full Text of Rule 5.170
Plain-English Summary
An attorney can take on part of a civil case rather than all of it. UTCR 5.170 sets the notice requirements for that arrangement when the attorney intends to appear in court on behalf of the party. The rule reaches limited scope representation in civil cases subject to this chapter, so work that never brings the attorney into court falls outside it.
The representation is bracketed by notices. As soon as practicable, the attorney files and serves a Notice of Limited Scope Representation in substantially the form published on the Oregon Judicial Department website. When the attorney has completed all services within the scope of that notice, the attorney files and serves a Notice of Termination of Limited Scope Representation, again in substantially the published form, in accordance with UTCR 3.140.
In between, service doubles. Once the Notice of Limited Scope Representation is filed, all documents must be served on both the attorney and the party represented on a limited scope basis. The party does not drop off the service list because counsel appeared for part of the case. The attorney's side of that requirement ends when the Notice of Termination is filed and served, or when the attorney withdraws.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the limited scope representation rule apply?
It applies to limited scope representation in civil cases subject to this chapter, and it is triggered when an attorney intends to appear in court on behalf of a party. Representation that stops short of a court appearance is not covered by this rule.
What do I file when I appear for a limited purpose?
A Notice of Limited Scope Representation, filed and served as soon as practicable, in substantially the form set out on the Oregon Judicial Department website. The form is the starting point; the rule does not ask you to draft one from scratch.
Who gets served while a limited scope attorney is in the case?
Both the attorney and the party. After the Notice of Limited Scope Representation is filed, all documents go to each of them. Serving only the attorney, or only the party, is not enough.
How does a limited scope attorney get out of the case?
By filing and serving a Notice of Termination of Limited Scope Representation once all services within the scope of the original notice are complete, in substantially the published form and in accordance with UTCR 3.140. Service on the attorney ends at that point, or when the attorney withdraws.
Does the rule cover help with documents when the attorney never appears in court?
The rule is written for the situation where an attorney intends to appear in court on behalf of a party. Assistance that never produces a court appearance is governed by other authorities rather than by this rule's notice requirements.