Few people rarely choose to deal with the legal system, and on most occasions, people look to avoid interacting with the law however they can. Unfortunately, sometimes things don’t go according to plan, and you’ll need to contact a legal professional. Not every situation will require a legal team to handle, however, so use this list as a starting point for when you should seek out a lawyer.
DUIs And Arrests
One of the most widely recognized times when you might need a lawyer is when you’re arrested. However, not all crimes lead to an arrest, but you’ll still want a strong legal team on your side. For one example, look at DUIs, sometimes called DWIs (driving while intoxicated) or OWIs (operating while intoxicated). In Michigan, a motorist less than 21 can be charged with a Zero Tolerance OWI offense meaning that any amount of alcohol in the motorist’s system, even if not influencing that person’s ability to operate a vehicle, can render charges. In these cases, you’ll want to have a lawyer ready to come to your defense.
Marriages And Divorces
Even if you’re not looking at potential jail time, there are occasions when you’ll need to contact a lawyer to help you settle disputes. When you’re dealing with a messy divorce, for example, it can be helpful to have a legal professional on your side. This is especially true in divorce cases that involve children or pets; you’ll want a lawyer to help you navigate the system and handle custody hearings. Make sure to check your state and county’s requirements before contacting a lawyer, however, as certain areas have different residency requirements. In order to file for divorce in Pennsylvania, one spouse must live in PA for at least six months before filing.
Financial Matters
If you stand to potentially lose large amounts of money if legal proceedings aren’t handled correctly, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. This is true, obviously, of lawsuits, where you could be forced to pay significant amounts or lose your belongings. However, this is also true when you could be gaining money, such as when you’re inheriting someone’s estate or dealing with a will. If you’re under 40 and don’t have a will, now is the time to do it; it’s best to handle while you’re younger rather than putting it off.
Needing Answers
Some legal issues are fairly easily handled, even if the paperwork looks a bit complicated. However, if you find yourself hitting a dead end and you aren’t sure where to turn, it’s probably better to talk to a lawyer in person rather than looking up answers online. The legal system tends to be complicated, and what worked for one person might not always be the right answer in every situation. Talking with an expert can ensure you get the best advice for your specific circumstances.
While nobody wants to have to rely on a lawyer, it’s helpful to know when you should be turning to a legal professional for advice. Use this list to help you get started by determining if you actually need a lawyer for your situation.