So You Think You Need A Lawyer?

Most of us, dread the idea of getting a lawyer, but sometimes there are few (if any choices), we're in trouble, we've been arrested, possibly charged, and getting a lawyer is not longer a choice, it's a necessity.  Now if that happens, you KNOW you need a lawyer, but there are other times when we simply need some legal advice and a lawyer could save you a lot of time and trouble.

While it's interesting to see the TV shows where clients represent themselves, in truth that person would be taking a large risk and the money they save for an attorney, could cost them greatly when a decision or verdict comes down against them.

What is your potential for loss?  Are you in danger of going to jail or losing a lot of money; then it should be obvious, you need an attorney.  There are of course different scenarios and different people will make the decision of what they consider serious.  Small things (such as parking tickets) could mount up over time and if not paid, you might have the Sherriff at your door with a warrant, that's serious in anyone's book and a good lawyer could help you remedy the matter in a timely manner and hopefully avoid jail time.

Often times negotiating a legal problem is akin to walking through a mine field; if you know where the mines are located, you can arrive safely on the other side.  Your lawyer can offer you advice and counsel that can allow you to avoid the troublesome areas and walk safe and secure through a complicated maze of regulations and rules.

Peace of mind is also something you should consider when making a decision concerning a lawyer.  Are you knowledgeable in the legal inroads of estate and tax planning?  If you are, then I applaud your efforts, if not then it would be in your best interest to seek legal counsel.

What are some of the things you should think about before hiring an attorney?

With a little tact and persistence most people can arrange a free consultation with a lawyer.  You might find this meeting will be all the legal advice you need, or you might realize you're in over your head and the smartest thing you can do is hire a lawyer today.

There are alternatives however, should you decide you don't need an attorney.

If you have a problem with a large company or utility company most will have a department specifically designed to help customers navigate their legalities.  Use tact and kindness when dealing with these folk, most are simply doing their job.

If situations reach an impasse, you could contact your state attorney general, but never use this as a threat against an adversary, rather as a means of last resort if all else failed.

Your state government will have regulating departments and/or agencies that deal with banking and insurance, these are people you can talk with if necessary.

If you're a senior (god bless you) there are multiple groups and organization that will help ensure you are not taken advantage of.

There is of course mediation or arbitration, which allows adversaries to discuss their problem in the company of a non vested third party.  In many cases disputes can be settled in this manner and avoid a lengthy and expensive court case.

How soon should you seek an attorney?

While none of us want to jump the gun, don't wait till the last minute.  Any legal proceeding takes time and energy and your case will be no different.  While you may decide at the last minute that you can settle your problems without an attorney, it's simply good common sense to have made your choice and have an attorney waiting in the wings.

Personal injury cases will have "time limitations" attached to them, so if you have been hurt on the job or been involved in an accident, it would be wise to move quickly in these matters as each state has different stipulations concerning how soon a legal injury claim must be filed.

The bottom line is this... if you think you might need legal advice or to hire an attorney, do your research and make that first call.  Facing the unknowing is much more difficult than making the decision to seek hire an attorney, then move forward with your life.