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Get A Lawyer
1. A Complex or Nasty Divorce
When couples mutually agree on all of the details of a split, there is no real need for a lawyer. 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.
2. A Wrongful Termination or Discrimination in the Workplace
There are both state and federal laws at play here, and the average person does not understand them. Only an attorney who specializes in this type of law is really qualified to carry your suit into court. You can be certain that the other side will have very solid legal representation. You should to.
3. Law Suits
If you are being sued and the consequences of a loss may result in the loss of a good deal of money or property, you need a lawyer. Again, the other side has a lawyer, so you need to get one too. Most of these things are settled out of court, but you want an experienced negotiator on your side.
4. A DUI
Driving under the influence (DUI) has become a serious charge. Consequences can include fines, jail time, loss of license, or any combination of these three. A good lawyer can meet with the prosecutor and get the charges reduced, especially if this is your first offense. Never go to court on a DUI charge without a lawyer — unless you are willing to accept the maximum penalty.
5. Drug Charges
Defendants who have personally hired attorneys always fare better than those who do not or those who take a public defender. Remember, a public defender is on case overload, and will usually recommend a plea bargain that will be worse than what a private attorney could get you. If you qualify financially for a public defender, still try to find a friend or relative willing to pony up the money for a lawyer.
6. A Car Accident with Injury
If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, the other guy’s insurance company will be all over you to settle your claim as quickly as possible. Don’t do it. In fact, never talk to an insurance company representative until you have first consulted a personal injury attorney. You may not be familiar with the laws or the normal compensation rates, but seasoned attorneys are. If you are injured in car accident, don’t talk to anyone except to answer cursory questions from the police on the scene.
7. Criminal Charges
Facing any criminal charge is scary, and you may not even know your rights as an accused person. Get a lawyer immediately for protection of your rights and so that you are defended as well as possible — guilty or not.
8. Wills and Trusts
Save your family from disputes and legal issues after you die. Set up your will or trust with a reputable attorney well in advance. Your first will should be set up as soon as you have a child and should be changed periodically throughout your life as circumstances change.
9. Business Startups
Whether you are going it alone, have a partner, or are setting up a corporation, never try to navigate all of the legal requirements alone. You need to be lawful and you need to be protected. Only a lawyer who specializes in business law can ensure these things.
10. Denial of Workmen’s Comp or Disability Claim
It is often the policy of such institutions to deny a claim the first time around. This is because they know a certain percentage of people will simply accept that ruling and give up. Don’t be one of those people. Get a lawyer up front – they will take the fee out of the settlement, so there are no up-front costs.
11. Bankruptcy
You can’t get one without a lawyer, and they will want payment up front.