If you are facing a divorce, a family dispute, or a criminal charge in Massachusetts, you already know how overwhelming the legal system can feel. For decades, hardworking people have been trapped between two unfair choices: drain your savings to pay an expensive law firm a $3,000 to $5,000 upfront retainer, or go to court alone and navigate complex legal proceedings by yourself.
At Afford Law, we created a better choice. I am Attorney Paul Whelan, and I founded this firm to give working-class individuals and families high quality, experienced legal representation at fees you can actually afford. Through our predictable sliding-scale fees, you get a dedicated advocate in your corner without taking on life-altering debt.
After earning my Juris Doctor from New England School of Law in 1994 and spending over 30 years practicing law in Massachusetts, I noticed a severe breakdown in our justice system. The legal system works well for two groups: the very wealthy who can easily afford $350 or more per hour, and those living below federal poverty guidelines who qualify for state legal aid or public defenders.
If you are an individual earning between $20,000 and $75,000 per year, or a family earning more based on your household size, you fall into the gap in the middle. You earn too much to qualify for free legal aid, but you cannot afford traditional law firm retainers.
During my time in Massachusetts courthouses, I watched thousands of good people walk into court forced to represent themselves simply because traditional lawyers were out of reach. They lost custody, agreed to unfair financial terms, or accepted damaging plea deals. I started Afford Law to change that reality. Access to justice is a fundamental right. You should never have to compromise your family, your freedom, or your financial stability simply because traditional legal fees are too high.
Predictable, Transparent Sliding-Scale Pricing
Traditional law firms demand $3,000 to $5,000 upfront retainers and charge $350 or more per hour. If you earn between $20,000 and $75,000 a year, those costs are overwhelming.
At Afford Law, we use a strict income-based sliding scale to ensure you receive experienced legal representation at a price you can afford.
Select your household size, your total annual income, and your case type below to see your customized legal rate instantly.
Afford Law operates on a mission-driven model that makes experienced legal counsel accessible and predictable for working-class residents across Massachusetts:
Predictable, Transparent Pricing: We eliminate the sudden financial shocks typical of traditional law firms. You will know your exact fee structure upfront before we begin work on your case. There are zero hidden fees and no unexpected invoices.
Comprehensive & Targeted Representation: We tailor our legal services to fit your actual needs. Whether you need full representation through trial or targeted assistance with specific court appearances, document drafting, or negotiations, Attorney Paul Whelan and our team stand beside you in court.
Lean, Purpose-Built Practice: By eliminating unnecessary corporate overhead and high-rise office suites, we pass direct financial savings on to our clients.
When your legal rights, finances, or freedom are on the line, experience matters. We bring over 30 years of active legal practice and deep local courtroom knowledge to every case we handle.
Juris Doctor (J.D.): New England School of Law (Class of 1994)
Bar Admission: Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Admitted 1994)
Family Law Practice: Comprehensive representation in divorce, child custody, child support modifications, alimony disputes, paternity establishment, and contempt hearings.
Criminal Defense Practice: Defending clients facing OUIs, larceny, drug offenses, assault allegations, motor vehicle charges, felony summonses, and misdemeanor summonses.
Restraining Orders: Fast, decisive advocacy for 209A abuse prevention orders and 258E harassment prevention orders.
Legal outcomes depend heavily on understanding local court procedures, filing requirements, and judicial expectations. Attorney Paul Whelan and our affiliate attorneys regularly represent clients throughout Bristol County, Plymouth County, and Norfolk County.
Getting experienced legal help should be convenient and straightforward. Afford Law maintains two primary office locations to serve working families across Southeastern Massachusetts:
You don’t have to navigate the court system alone, and you don’t have to take on severe debt to protect your future. Contact Afford Law today to schedule your free consultation. We will review your case, evaluate your situation, and calculate your custom sliding-scale fee upfront.
