In a world of more than 7 billion people, there are bound to be some disputes, misunderstandings, and those who just simply do not want to follow the rules that are meant to keep everyone safe and happily coexisting with the many others around them. This is why we have such a complex legal system, and so many different types of lawyers, from family law attorneys to criminal lawyers specializing in areas ranging from drug use to drunk driving. If you find yourself in trouble with the law, or in the midst of a complicated divorce or other legal proceeding, you will want to make sure that you find an attorney who will help to protect your rights throughout the entire process.
How local attorneys can help
It is not very difficult to learn the laws of the land and follow the structure that society has set to keep everyone safe. And yet there have always been, and will likely always be, people who either want to push against authority by refusing to follow those laws, or have had a lapse in judgement that results in an infraction of some kind.
Drunk driving is a very common example of this. Some people know the risks and choose to act recklessly in spite of the dangers. Others, once intoxicated, do not have the normal mental faculties and clarity that they might otherwise possess. Every year, more than 1.4 million individuals are arrested for a first offense of driving under the influence, or a DUI. DUI consequences should not be taken lightly, as it is a very serious matter. Finding an attorney in most DUI cases is not about trying to escape those consequences, but to ensure that you have a fair trial and that your basic rights are protected.
Of course, there are also those occasions where the alleged violator, in a DUI case or otherwise, is actually innocent, and it is then that his or her lawyer must work to prove his or her innocence. In a survey of 188 prosecuting attorneys, judges, public defenders, police, and sheriff, it was discovered that around 10,000 individuals across the United States could be wrongfully convicted each and every year of serious crimes. Finding the right local attorney can help an individual who has been wrongly accused or convicted to find freedom again.
Reasons to get a family law attorney involved
Family law attorneys can help in a number of different situations. From the emotionally difficult and complex intricacies of a divorce or custody dispute, to domestic violence claims or restraining orders, to issues involving wills, estates, property or inheritances, family law attorneys handle quite a bit. When there is a disagreement between family members to the point that the law must intervene, chances are emotions will be quite heightened and it is necessary for that outside third party to come in and ensure that everyone’s rights are protected, concerns are heard, and all matters that must be addressed are done so in a reasonable manner. Each of the aforementioned issues are complicated and can be difficult to get through, but domestic violence is perhaps the most severe, as the health and wellbeing of those involved could be at risk.
There is certainly an abundance of domestic violence statistics, though a completely accurate and thorough understanding of just how prevalent domestic violence actually is might be impossible to achieve, as so many victims never come forward or report the abuse. It is a deeply unfortunate and sad situation that affects too many people. Escaping abuse is a difficult process, and often times restraining orders are necessary in the aftermath, whether for couples who have separated, or specific cases such as elder abuse. Restraining orders in those cases are meant to protect an individual over the age of 65.
Matters involving the law can get quite complicated quite quickly. It is best to stay on the right side of the law, and if you do find yourself in a complex legal matter, find a good attorney right away.