Lawyer Referral & Information Service
The Hampden County Bar Association maintains a Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) through which participating attorneys receive referrals of potential clients who seek the assistance from the Bar Association. The Hampden County Bar Association's LRIS is the only LRIS program in the state that meets American Bar Association standards for lawyer referral.
Participating attorneys become members of a panel of attorneys versed in a variety of legal subject matters. Clients are screened and have indicated that, except for contingent fee cases, they can pay for an attorney. Any fee generated is divided between you (85%) and the HCBA (15%). It is important that private attorneys are available to potential clients who are unfamiliar with the legal system.
Limited Assistance Representation (LAR)
Limited Assistance Representation (LAR) allows attorneys to make a limited appearance on behalf of a self-represented litigant for a specific purpose(s) and/or event(s). Many times litigants can’t afford a high retainer or only need assistance with a portion of their case. The Hampden County Bar Association maintains a Limited Assistance Representation (LAR) panel through which we are able to match up litigants who need help with their case on a limited basis with attorneys who are qualified to enter limited assistance representation appearances.
As a prerequisite to filing any limited appearance under the terms of this Standing Order, an attorney must complete an information session on LAR approved by the Chief Justice. Once you do so, please complete the Attorney Statement of Qualification. Attorneys interested in participating in the new LAR Panel should complete the LAR Panel Application.