With the internet era, you can find almost anything on google or YouTube.
Legal assistance is one of them. Knowing whether or not you need a lawyer can be confusing. For a start, define your problem carefully before considering hiring a lawyer.
Sometimes you may be able to solve the problem yourself if it’s a matter that does not involve the government or a criminal offense. Statistics estimate that over one billion people globally face a justice problem.
Only 18% of 1 billion cases get resolved.
So the big question is, do you need to hire a lawyer or can you do it yourself? Here are 10 real-life situations where you’ll absolutely need a lawyer.
Divorce
Divorce is a very complex and legal matter.
However, not all couples need a lawyer and a mutual agreement is reached on all details pertaining the divorce. However, in certain situations, you may need a lawyer.
If you fear that your spouse is violent and may harm you or your children, it’s wise to lawyer up. Who gets child custody, property division and alimony can hit major roadblocks if the couples are not agreeable.
You need a lawyer for reviewing your divorce settlement before signing it. This is important as some people lack understanding of some terms. Once the judge signs it, you are bound by the agreement and court order.
Accidents and Injuries
In the event that someone else hits your car causing damages or injuries, you need a lawyer. Claiming from the insurance companies can be a bit technical as you are a novice. The insurance company can indirectly point you like the one at fault.
You need a lawyer to ensure that you don’t lose liability on the insured amount. In the case of injuries caused by toxic exposure due to pollution, one can consult maritime law.
Their lawyers specialize in this field and ensure that you get full compensation for your claim.
Disability Claim
Millions of applications are received by the social security administration annually. Over 60% of those applications get denied in the initial stage. You need a lawyer to give you guidance on the right medical documents needed to prove disability.
Being familiar with the security review process makes it easier for lawyers to know the guidelines governing the claim. Simple errors an inconsistencies may lead to claim rejection.
When you hire a lawyer, they make sure that the information in the initial claim is part of the permanent claim for benefits.
Declaring Bankruptcy
You can either file for chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy. For chapter 7, filing can be successful as it depends on the complexity or simplicity of the case. For chapter 13, you need a lawyer who has extensive bankruptcy knowledge.
The complexity of the paperwork makes filing the paperwork with the court labor intensive. Meeting creditors without a lawyer takes a longer time as they scrutinize your papers, and examine you under oath.
Business Issues
When starting up a business or a company, you need written contracts to regulate the relationships of the business and business to consumer. You need a lawyer to assist you in taxation, growth and ownership issues.
Legal documents such as incorporation forms, lease agreements and trademarks are tasking and a lawyer will help you navigate them.
You need a business lawyer who can anticipate potential problems, and has expertise during negotiation of contracts.
Real Estate
Buying or selling a home is an important decision to make.
In most states, it is not a legal obligation for a lawyer’s presence during the transaction. However, it is vital that you have a lawyer to check out the formal written contract in case it has vague or unclear terms.
If you are selling and have brokerage agreement, make sure a lawyer advices and guides you through. You need a lawyer to explain, revise and determine if it is signed.
Wills and Trusts
Having a lawyer draft up your will give you peace of mind. It assures you that in case of a will contest, it will stand up in court. You will need a lawyer to help you with some formalities.
Stress, time wastage, and extra-legal costs are some of the consequences of ignored requirements. Lawyers are perfect as they give legal advice and can provide a tax advantage for your estate.
DUI
Driving under the influence is a serious offense that could cost you your current and future employment. A while back hiring an attorney could get you lesser charges by the court. People were asked to pay a fine or charged with reckless driving.
Currently, if you are over the limit of blood alcohol concentration, you are judged on the DUI charge.
You need a lawyer with legal experience to access the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
Failed Drug Tests
A failed drug test during employment may lead to its termination. Depending on the state, one may be restricted to unemployment, disability or unemployment benefits.
You need a lawyer to explain the details of the laws on drug testing as filing lawsuits is quite tasking. They can also help protect your rights and defend you if your tests were not done according to the law.
Criminal Charges
Guilty or not, you need a lawyer to protect your rights. Whether educated or smart, it’s almost impossible to represent yourself. You need a lawyer with experience as each criminal case is unique.
A defense lawyer may negotiate deals with prosecutors to facilitate a reduction in sentence. They also give you a detailed breakdown and interpretation of the legal rules that are often hidden.
Lawyers understand the consequences of pleading guilty that a self-represented person may not know.
Why You Need a Lawyer
While not all cases require a lawyer, some need experience and knowledge only a real lawyer possesses. First, it is important to choose a lawyer who is conversant and comfortable with the case you are being charged you for efficient representation.
Complex administrative rules, Federal and state laws, government regulations are some of the main reasons why you need a lawyer. When you are representing yourself, you can miss deadlines or file the wrong document.
This may have serious recuperations on one’s legal rights. Read more to find out how seeking a lawyer’s advice early can help you save time and reduce the time taken to get the documents.
