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There are some simple legal matters that don’t require the expertise of an attorney, such as filing for a building permit. However, in most legal situations, hiring an attorney is necessary to ensure you get the outcome you expect. Even if you don’t get exactly what you want, hiring a lawyer will ensure you get the best possible outcome in your situation.
Criminal Charges
When you have been charged with a crime, you’re facing the possibility of losing your freedom. This is why the government guarantees your right to legal representation in criminal matters. Even if you don’t have the money to pay the fees charged by a drug charges attorney, the court will assign a free lawyer to you. A defense attorney can help you try to get your case dismissed, or they may be able to obtain a less severe sentence for you.
Personal Injury Claims
A personal injury claim can result from a number of different situations, including auto accidents, dog bites, medical malpractice, and defective products. In this situation an individual has suffered financial damages as the result of their injuries, and they may not be in a position to pay a lawyer’s fees. This is why personal injury lawyers offer a free initial consultation, and charge a contingency fee. This means they take a percentage of your settlement or jury award as their fee. If they don’t obtain a favorable outcome in your case, you won’t have to pay them.
Contested Divorces
You won’t always have to hire a lawyer for an uncontested divorce, but, otherwise, it’s a good idea to get legal representation. The contested divorce requires a hearing, and you could end up at a disadvantage if you haven’t hired an attorney.
Going to court without a lawyer to represent you could result in the loss of your parenting rights, unfair property divisions, or orders for support that are unjust. Even couples who agree on these issues often hire attorneys to help with the mediation process. A lawyer with experience in family law will help you reach an agreement in mediation that the judge will approve.
Starting a Business
If you’re starting a business, it’s wise to keep an attorney on retainer to assist you with various aspects of setting up your business. You should consult a business attorney who is familiar with tax law, employment law, and liability law in particular.
You’ll need to draw up contracts and file other types of paperwork to protect yourself and your business from the conflicts that could arise in these areas of business law. When you keep an attorney on retainer, you will always have somewhere to go to get the answers you need to successfully manage your new business.
Estate Planning
You will also have to consult an attorney in managing your estate. While this includes creating wills and trusts that will help an executor manage your estate after your die, estate planning includes much more. For example, suppose you become seriously injured or develop an illness that prevents you from communicating your wishes.
You will need a financial power of attorney to handle your income, debts, and investments. An estate planning lawyer can also help you select a healthcare proxy, or someone who will make medical care decisions for you when you’re unable. If you don’t make these decisions in advance with the help of your lawyer, the court may appoint someone you don’t trust to handle these important matters for you.
Conclusion
You’ll also want to make sure you hire the right attorney for your situation. The initial consultation provides an opportunity for the attorney to determine if they can help your situation. It’s also an opportunity for you to evaluate the attorney. If you don’t think they’re right for you, there are plenty of other attorneys you can consult. Look for an attorney you trust to handle your case.