Representing a litigant in only one issue or task in a lawsuit – aka "limited scope representation" or "unbundling" – is an important new, often lower-cost service lawyers can offer prospective clients. But it will only truly take hold if judges help make it work.

Illinois appellate Justice Michael B. Hyman makes the case for unbundling to his fellow judges in the latest issue of ISBA's Bench and Bar newsletter. "Without a doubt, the ability to automatically withdraw from a limited scope appearance is the question of singular importance to lawyers who might offer limited scope services," Hyman writes. "Judges who want to see the litigants in their courtrooms benefit from limited assistance need to understand and respect the boundaries established by the rules and limited scope representation agreements." Read his article.