|
Tips on When to Hire an Attorney
There are many types of legal problems. You may consider hiring
a lawyer if you are accused of committing a crime, if you are involved
in or are contemplating a lawsuit, or if you have been involved
in an auto accident. Although lawyers can help with legal problems
after they arise, perhaps the best time to consult a lawyer is before
a legal problem arises. Early consultations with a lawyer can prevent
serious problems. Common situations where legal advice is helpful
include:
- The sale or purchase of a home, real estate, or a business.
- The formation a business.
- The drafting of a will, trust, or estate plan.
- A domestic or marital problem.
- A tax problem.
- An accident involving personal injury or property damage.
- An arrest or questioning by law enforcement officials concerning
your conduct.
Some of these situations require the assistance of a lawyer. Self
representation may also be an option. Many legal problems can be
resolved through letter writing or a negotiation session. You may
be able to negotiate the matter on your own with assistance fromgovernment
agencies or consumer assistance organizations. You may also want
to consider hiring a lawyer only to review your papers or legal
plan rather than seeking full representation. Alternatively, you
may be able to resolve a legal dispute in a small claims court if
the dispute has a value less than or equal to a certain amount (perhaps
$2,500). Be sure to check with your local court for applicable limits.
Some legal issues can be handled by alternative means. For example,
alternative dispute resolution (ADR) programs can help resolve your
legal problem through mediation or arbitration. |
