Many people are penny wise and pound foolish when it comes to hiring an attorney. They’ll take matters into their own hands, and then make them worse. Once they get to an attorney, they’ve dug themselves into such a deep legal hole, no attorney can pull them out of it. Here are four situations where you’ll want to retain counsel right away.
Auto Accidents
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident by the negligence of another driver, contact a quality accident attorney right away. The insurer of the party who hit you will do whatever it legally can do to save money paying on your claim. You might think you know something about personal injury law. Compared to a seasoned personal injury attorney, you’re not even at the tip of an iceberg. You’ll find their way of getting paid to be very favorable to you too. Most also advance the costs of litigation.
When Charged With a Crime
If a crime is punishable by a jail term, you’ll want to seriously consider your freedom. You’ll be held to the same standards as an attorney, and it’s likely that a judge is going to get very tired of you very quickly. You haven’t even been trained in the rules of evidence. A good criminal lawyer can keep you out of jail. Once you’re incarcerated, it’s probably too late for anybody to get you out.
Permanent Disability
Those seeking social security benefits for permanent disability often commit common errors that that either delay approval of benefits or result in denials of their applications. Time limitations also apply for reconsideration or appeal. Attorney fees are regulated by statute, so you really need not worry about overpaying. The application, hearing and appeal processes are quite complicated. Save time by getting some help with social security disability from an attorney that can represent you. That way, you’ll be able to navigate the situation successfully.
When Served
If you’ve been served with court papers, you’ll definitely want to consult with an attorney. You might be getting served for an eviction, foreclosure, an unpaid bill or even in error on the debt of somebody else. If you sit on your rights, a judgment will be taken against you. If you let that judgment sit too long, it becomes permanent, whether you have a valid defense or not.
There’s no reason not to have a relationship with an attorney. Many of them provide free consultations. You’d be getting free valuable legal advice at no cost. Keep yourself out of that hole.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber.
