Even if you are in perfect health, with a well-paying job, and happy marriage, it’s always a good idea to consider the possibility that sometime down the line you may need a legal representative. Covering your bases while the going is good can prove to be quite useful if something should go wrong in the future. You’ll be prepared for that worst outcome when it happens, instead of scrambling frantically if it does. Whether you need to seek legal advice because of injury, divorce, bankruptcy, or other reasons, knowing a good legal team you can rely on makes a big difference when you need a legal representative. It’s also good to seek out a legal representative if you’re starting to put your will in order or if you’re thinking about arranging your estate. They can help make sure everything is done properly and follows the letter of the law.
When Do I Need an Attorney?
If you’re going through a major life event — such as marriage, divorce, a birth or a death — or major change in situation, it’s best to consult with an attorney. Obviously if you’re arrested, you’ll want to have a legal representative to assist with your case. If you’re involved in a lawsuit — either as the person filing the lawsuit, or the person or organization that it’s being filed against — you’ll want an attorney.
If you’re filing a personal injury claim or property damage claim, it’s wise to get a lawyer involved. Some workers’ compensation cases may need the touch of an attorney, but not always.
And, of course, if your finances change, you’ll want to be speaking with an attorney. Filing for bankruptcy, loss of valuable property, inheriting valuable property or goods, and drawing up a last will and testament will all require the services of an attorney.
How Do I Find a Reliable Attorney?
Most attorneys tend to specialize in a specific field of study within law. For example, you can have a personal injury attorney, an auto accident attorney, a divorce attorney, and so forth. Depending on the situation you’re facing, you probably want an attorney who specializes in your type of case. They’ll know the ins and outs of possible scenarios, be familiar with how these cases are handled and what possible outcomes look like, and know that specific set of laws backwards and forwards, which can only work to your advantage.
Asking family members or friends for recommendations is also generally a good move. A personal recommendation can often make many people feel more at ease with their attorney, which strengthens their relationship. Furthermore, you know that your family or friends have been happy with the services of this particular attorney, which is always a good sign. How Can Hiring an Attorney Benefit Me? Your chances of winning your case are often much improved by retaining an attorney. For example, if you’re filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy claim, your success rate improves by over 95% when you have an attorney. Your attorney will know how to best represent you — when to negotiate or ask for a settlement, when to pursue the case in court, and can give you sound advice if you need to testify. He or she will work with a legal team to find witnesses, if necessary, and draw up tactics for how to go forward. Without the counsel of an attorney, you would need to do all of this yourself — and may find yourself way out of your depth. An attorney can help decipher the legalese that accompanies legal matters — and that we laypeople often find confusing — and navigate you towards the best possible outcome. If you need legal assistance, don’t hesitate in looking for a legal representative to take on your case. It can only help you in the long run.