Offered by the Allegheny County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service
The Modest Means program was created to provide representation to those individuals who are having difficulty affording traditional legal services, but for one reason or another, do not qualify for various pro bono service providers. Through the program, a client, once screened, will be referred for a fee of $25.00 to one attorney who has agreed to provide a particular service at a reduced fee. All of our attorneys are members of the ACBA Lawyer Referral Service in good standing, have completed a lengthy membership application, and carry current liability insurance.
Income Guidelines
To qualify for the Modest Means panel, an individual must fall within 200% of the 2007 Federal Poverty Guidelines before taxes. You must call the ACBA Lawyer Referral Service and be screened for income before being referred to any attorney.
| Family Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
| 1 | $1,701 | $20,420 |
| 2 | $2,281 | $27,380 |
| 3 | $2,861 | $34,340 |
| 4 | $3,441 | $41,300 |
| 5 | $4,021 | $48,260 |
| 6 | $4,601 | $55,220 |
| 7 | $5,181 | $62,180 |
| 8 | $5,761 | $69,140 |
In the event that you misrepresent your income, the attorney to whom you are referred is free to charge his/her normal rates.
Services Offered
Services are currently offered only in the following areas. For rates, please contact us at 412-261-5555.
The fees must be paid up front prior to the attorney performing any work.
We will not guarantee representation at the following rates if the services sought exceed program specifications.
ACBA Modest Means Panels and Fees
FLAT FEE:
Uncontested Divorce (w/ No Property Claims)
Custody Conciliation
Support Conference/Hearing
PFA Hearing
Simple Will
Living Will
Power of Attorney
DUI (ARD Eligible)
Bankruptcy
HOURLY RATE:*
Uncontested divorce (w/ property claims)
Contested divorce (w/ property claims)
Contested divorce (w/ NO property claims)
* The attorney may charge a retainer to be set at his/her discretion after a review of the case.
For more information, please contact the Allegheny County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service at 412-261-5555.