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    Know When to Engage an Attorney -Infographic

    by SimpleLaw on
    Legal client Infographic

    There are so many options when you are ready to engage an attorney. But how do you know if you need one? Here are 5 points to consider... and they really matter.

    Here are 5 points to consider.

    1) Risk/Reward

    Let's say you are completing a legal document using an online resource. There are many options out there. But, for some reason, the document is not completed correctly. What’s at stake? Let's consider something simple, like contesting a parking ticket. Well, you can handle that. However, if you create a will, the need to do it correctly is critical. So, the attorney ensures documents are signed and filed appropriately. As they say, the devil is in the details. The risk of an incomplete filing can have some pretty negative results.

    2) Level of experience.

    Perhaps you have extensive experience due to your profession. For example, maybe you are a real estate expert. If that’s the case, you may not require a real estate attorney. But if you don’t have the experience, it may be best to hire a professional.

    3) Cost of correction.

    So, let’s say you submit everything and find out it was not completed appropriately. What are the costs to correct it? If it’s a simple task, like refiling adjusted forms, then sure, you should do it. But if the cost to correct the problem is high, either in actual expense or time, it’s a good time to engage an attorney. You may be surprised by the cost to correct issues! And how affordable good legal help really is.

    4) Atypical elements.

    For the most part, typical legal processes are, well, typical. There aren’t a lot of exceptions. But, does your situation have any unique features or needs? Whether it’s a will and you have multiple heirs or are completing a sale/leaseback of a property, these exceptions are worthy of the expertise of an attorney. Again, you may be surprised at the reasonable costs of engaging an attorney.

    5) Regional differences.

    Well, not all states enforce the same laws or in the same way. That extends to county and city laws. An attorney will know these differences and address them. So even if you have experience, if it’s in a different geographic area, it’s definitely worthwhile to work with a professional. After all, you need to protect your investments.

    Download the 'Know When to Engage an Attorney' Infographic

    Remember, it's all about balance. So, consider these points when determining if you need an attorney or not.

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