Getting legal help can sometimes appear unnecessary in the modern world — Courts are making forms more available to the public for things like name changes and dissolution of marriages, and everyone has the internet as a potential resource. So why hire a lawyer? Can’t you just do it on your own?
Can’t I just do it on my own?
In most instances, the basic forms provided by a Court are only one part of the case. Motions, discovery, and court hearings are a regular part of many areas of law. When it comes to negotiating with other parties or persuading the Court, a lawyer knows which arguments are likely to be best received or should be avoided. Courtrooms can be intimidating, and lawyers who work regularly with Court staff can navigate this world for you.
What about templates I can buy on the web?
Legal forms are only one small part of completing a legal task. For the creation of a Will or Trust, what is in– or left out– of that document can make the difference in your loved ones’ futures. Lawyers also know how other Lawyers operate, and can be an effective way to negotiate cases where tensions might run high. In other areas of the law those online forms may be entirely out of date or otherwise noncompliant with the law. How would you know?
This is a simple issue, we’ll never go to court!
Even if your case never has you in a courtroom, Lawyers are trained to “issue spot” and find the potential pitfalls in every scenario. If you’re an inexperienced camper, the first time you go into the wilderness a map might get you halfway there, but a guide with first aid and survival experience is better if things go awry. Since you never know when things will go awry ahead of time, its best to plan. A lawyer is a professional. This one-time event in your life is what we do over and over, for a living.
Can’t I just wait and see if it this issue becomes a real problem and then hire you?
We are always here for you, whenever you’re ready. One of the reasons we like to get involved early is because we can help prevent issues from becoming larger problems.
We hope all legal matters are handled efficiently and inexpensively- and if they are, having a lawyer at your side will not substantially increase the financial burden. It will alleviate a lot of anxiety and guilt over your own abilities, too.
OK. Maybe I need a lawyer- why should we choose you?