You Know You Need the

Right Lawyer's Help

 There are many reasons to go to a lawyer, in case you've been arrested, for example, but what about other not so clear-cut times?

Sometimes the need for a lawyer is obvious. For example, you've been served with a lawsuit. If you have been  arrested or charged with a crime, even if the police just claim they want you to come in for a "talk." You need a lawyer. You know that.

Obviously people hire lawyers for advice and legal counsel or to prepare legal documents all of the time, in all kinds of situations.

While you may be able to get through a legal problem without hiring a lawyer, you should always remember that when you represent yourself, you might have a "fool for a client," as the saying goes.

However, given the cost of lawyers today, you may not have a choice, but consider the options? Hiring a lawyer is not an easy decision in most cases.

FOR PEACE OF MIND CONSULT A LAWYER. MOST OFFER FREE CONSULTATIONS.

Face the music and consult a lawyer so you know what you are facing. You should consult experienced lawyers for important matters such as prenup agreements, criminal matters, real estate sale or purchases, tax and estate planning, drafting your will and trusts, negotiating business deals and especially in divorce, support, custody and family law matters. Even if adopting children.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT A LAWYER?

In many situations, especially in personal injury matters, you must act promptly.

But even if you think you have lots of time to consider your alternatives, deadlines such as sneak up on you and lawyers need time to prepare. So it's always better to start looking for a lawyer sooner than later.

If you've been injured in an accident, keep in mind that there are time limits on your right to file a lawsuit. These "statutes of limitation" vary greatly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. If you are injured falling on the sidewalk, you need to sue the city and they often demand notice within days of your accident.

BEFORE YOU HIRE A LAWYER

Look at alternative sources to resolve your legal issues. For example:

A phone call to the other side, may sort things out if you have a customer or product dispute.

Call and see if there is a customer service department which may be all your need to effectively address and resolve your problems and complaints. Keep good notes just in case.

Look for appropriate community groups such as elder associations, civil rights groups. There are often organizations that can help you with advice and information. Again keep notes of all contacts, just in case

IT NEVER HURTS TO TALK TO A LAWYER.

 It is prudent and it may be the best thing you can do if you are facing a legal problem that you can't resolve yourself. You can often arrange a free half hour consultation with a lawyer who will talk to you on the matter.

CONSIDER WHAT YOU STAND

TO WIN OR LOSE:

Ask yourself  "What will it cost me if I lose?"

When your finances or liberties are in serious jeopardy, the obvious answer is to  simply must get a lawyer.

 A parking ticket is not something for which you need a lawyer. It is just a minor and trivial legal problem. You don't usually need a paralegal or lawyer to pay the fine or even to fight the ticket.  Pay it by mail, or go to court and see if you can get it thrown out.

Sometimes you can win all by yourself. Your insurance rates are part of your decision. Although a lawyer or para may cost more than the fine, it will still be a bargain if getting the ticket tossed, stops your insurance rates from going up for several years.

However, if you have a several unpaid parking tickets and a warrant has been issued for your arrest and or jail, a lawyer can help you resolve the situation, and perhaps reduce your fines and even keep you out of jail.