How to Know When to Hire a Lawyer

There are times when you can take care of your own legal matters but you need to know when to hire a lawyer. Every situation is different so let's explore a few situations in which hiring a lawyer is beneficial.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Accused of committing a crime - Whether it's a misdemeanor, felony or infraction, a criminal defense attorney can be sure you get a speedy trial and make sure your rights are defended in a court of law.

2. Charged with DUI - DUI law differs greatly from other legal fields and if you've been charged for drinking and driving, it's not the time to represent yourself. DUI attorneys are experts in the field of DUI and DWI law and you will benefit greatly from their services.

3. Filing for divorce - You can file for a divorce on your own but a lawyer will be able to help you if complications should arise. You should seriously consider hiring a lawyer if there's a history of violence, sexual or substance abuse. You should also hire a lawyer if your spouse is lying and being manipulative. It is probably in your best interest to hire a divorce lawyer if your spouse has already hired a lawyer.

4. Filing Bankruptcy - Many lawyers work specifically with bankruptcy cases. Since filing for bankruptcy isn't as easy as it once was, lawyers who specialize in the bankruptcy system can better help you with the process.

5. Selling or buying a home or property - When it comes time to sign the contracts for buying or selling a home, a lawyer can sift through the legal lingo and make sure any problems are nipped in the bud.

6. Starting a business - You can start a sole proprietary without help from a lawyer in most cases. If you are planning to form a LLC or corporation there are many legal issues involved and a lawyer could save you a lot of trouble and even help you choose which business type is best for you.

7. When you or a loved one have been injured - If you're injured in an accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you with the claims process from the insurance companies. Remember, if you're involved in a auto accident with an under insured or uninsured motorist, ALWAYS seek legal counsel. There are short time limits on filing claims in these situations and a lawyer will know best how to proceed.

Tips & Warnings

• Anytime you have to sign legally binding contracts a lawyers expertise can be invaluable. There's usually a lot of legal jargon in those contracts and a lawyer can help you to understand the contract, inform you of your rights and solve potential legal problems.
• If you've had a minor accident or fender bender, it's probably not necessary to hire a lawyer. Search online for free legal advice and review your options.
• If you can't afford legal services, contact legal-aid, ask family to help you or take out a loan. Look for local lawyers who may do pro-bono or take payments. If you're accused of a crime, legal counsel will be appointed to you if you can't afford it, although it may be in your best interest to seek legal help elsewhere.

[sonni57]

on 4/8/2009 Good article on how to know when to hire a lawyer.

[starlet67]

on 4/8/2009 Great guidelines for knowing when to seek legal advice!5*

[harvard]

on 4/8/2009 This one's a keeper, thanks for the How to Know When to Hire a Lawyer. This is an unpleasant but necessary issue. Thank you. You keep this up and I won't have anything to write about. Thanks again.

[JIN1128]

on 4/7/2009 Thanks for the information.