Can an Attorney be hired for a one time issue such as presenting a motion to the court ?

The answer to your question will differ based on where your case exists. Generally, a lawyer can represent you in court under a "limited representation agreement." Exceptions exist based on the area of law and the jurisdiction. Outside of court, such as legal assistance in drafting a motion, I know of no legal reason that you cannot hire a lawyer. The problem though is whether a lawyer will agree to this arrangement because the risk of the client being dissatisfied is higher and the lawyer runs a greater risk of being sued for negligence. Additionally, the lawyer may believe (often rightfully) that he/she needs a lot of prep time in order to understand all the facts and legal issues involved in your matter and charge what seems to the client as a lot of money for little product (i.e., the motion and argument in court).

Absolutely. You and the attorney can agree to limit your involvement to as little as necessary. We have often just drawn pleadings for people who could not afford to pay us to go to court with them.

You may want to contact Legal Aid of North Carolina to see if you qualify for their assistance. Whether you qualify would be based on your income level. However, even if you do not qualify, they may have some helpful suggestions for you. They have offices throughout the state. Here is their website: http://www.legalaidnc.org/ FEEDBACK: Both and other readers are interested in your feedback. Please check the “thumbs up” symbol if you find an answer helpful. DISCLAIMER: I am admitted to practice in the state of North Carolina only and make no attempt to opine on matters of law that are not relevant to North Carolina. This answer is based on general principles of law that may or may not relate to your specific situation. Facts and laws change and these possible changes will affect the response provided herein. Consult an attorney in your locale before taking any action which may affect your legal rights. You should not rely on this response alone and nothing in these communications creates an attorney/client relationship.