In the media, attorneys are often called bloodsuckers or liars, and they earn very little trust. While there are some attorneys who cut corners and find loopholes, most don’t fall into this stereotype. They simply exist to serve people who really need their help.
You hope you’ll never have to go through a lawsuit, but if you do, you’ll be grateful for an experienced, compassionate attorney.
Here are a few reasons you might need an attorney:
1. Personal Injury
Accidents – like a car accident, slip and fall, dog bite, or incident at work – happen without warning. If the at-fault party pays for your medical bills and damages, you may not need to hire an attorney. However, injured parties don’t always get the financial support they need, and an attorney can help you gain that compensation.
“When you’ve been seriously hurt by someone else’s careless or reckless behavior, it can be extremely frustrating,” says an article from an Arizona personal injury firm. “It can leave you feeling scared for your future and your financial well-being. After all, a serious injury can mean big medical bills, lost income due to not being able to work, and constant pain and suffering. The good news is you are not alone. If you have been hurt in an accident… you may have a right to be compensated for your injuries.”
2. Wrongful Termination
There are certain grounds laid out in your contract on which employers can terminate your position. However, they cannot fire you based on discrimination, clashing personalities, race, disability, and other technicalities.
If you feel that you’ve been terminated for any reason outside of poor job performance, you’ll be glad to have an attorney on your side. They understand the complex legalities associated with such a case and can help you take back what’s rightfully yours.
3. A Complex Divorce
“When couples mutually agree on all of the details of a split, there is no real need for a lawyer,” explains Elena Prokopets of Lifehack. “When, however, there are issues of property, investments, savings, support, debt, and child custody arrangements, only a fool neglects getting legal representation. The terms of a finalized divorce are very binding, and they can only be changed by going back to court. All of this can be avoided with a good lawyer up front.”
Research good divorce attorneys in your area before hiring one. You need someone who will stand in your corner and be the voice of reason during the emotional times of divorce.
4. Minor or Major Criminal Charges
Criminal charges can be terrifying, whether you’re guilty or not. When faced with a criminal charge, most people don’t know their rights. Without an attorney present, you might say something that can incriminate you, even if you’re innocent. According to law, anyone charged with a crime has a right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, you’ll have a public defender appointed to you for free.
If possible, try to hire a private attorney. Public defenders do their best, but their lack of time and resources often limits their abilities. A quality private attorney will prioritize your case and devote more time and resources to your case, so you’re more likely to win.
5. Estate Planning
When you pass away, you want your property and assets to go to those you’ve chosen. Without estate planning, your property may go to the state, and they’ll meter out your belongings as they see fit.
“The United States tax code and each state’s estate and/or inheritance taxes can be a confusing arena to navigate on your own,” explains Renee Hykel Cuddy, Esq, an immigration attorney and contributor for LegalZoom. ‘When matters are complicated, it can be worth your time and money to seek the assistance of an estate planning attorney for personalized guidance on distributing assets and minimizing tax implications.”
6. You’ve Been Served
“If you have been served with a lawsuit, you must act quickly to protect your legal rights,” says an article from HG.org. “Whether the lawsuit has been filed against you personally, against your business, or even if you have only been served on behalf of a member of your household or company, you should contact an experienced litigation attorney immediately to consult with you, review the lawsuit, and advise you what you should do next.”
Hiring an attorney immediately after being served a lawsuit will offer the best protection.
7. Business Issues
“There are two professionals every business will need early on: an accountant and a lawyer….A good business attorney will provide vital assistance in almost every aspect of your business, from basic zoning compliance and copyright and trademark advice to formal business incorporation and lawsuits and liability,” says Cliff Ennico of Entrepreneur.
Don’t try to navigate the complex process of starting a business without legal aid. You have enough on your plate without worrying about drafting contracts and your clients finding harmful loopholes in them. Your attorney will be your saving grace in this instance and many like it.
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