Whenever faced with various life issues involving your family, business, your car, or your home, the idea to contact an attorney may not be the first one on your mind. You may think that the issue is minor and it does not warrant a layer’s attention. However, contacting a legal representative in most of these situations comes with loads of benefits.
Every country operates under a particular legal system. The law has various branches that include property law, taxation, and cooperate law. The different forms of law play a significant role in shaping societies and other aspects of day-to-day life.
A lawyer can help calm a situation, preventing it from becoming any worse. Contacting them can help you avoid losing money and property, depending on what the situation is. Understanding when you need an attorney is therefore important. With that in mind, here are the top six scenarios that warrant calling your lawyer.
1. When Charged with a Criminal Offense
It is very important to contact a criminal attorney whenever you are facing any criminal offense. Whether the case is minor or severe, a lawyer can help you handle the case effectively. Different cities and states approach various crimes differently. Some are more lenient with sentencing, while others will slap you with long sentences upon conviction, even for non-violent crimes.
Remember, the police and prosecutors are not trying to help you. Sometimes, they will even try to intimidate you using legalese to try and get you to cooperate. But whatever the case, do not speak or commit to anything they offer without a lawyer being present.
2. When Writing a Will
A will is one of the most impactful documents a person can leave behind after they die. Most court respects everything written on it. That’s why you should never create one without understanding the significance of what it captures. Please consult with a knowledgeable attorney and have them help you craft a legally sound document. Remember, a properly written Will protects your family once you are gone.
3. When Starting a New Business
While starting a business may be exciting, several legal issues should never be overlooked. That’s why it is important to consult an experienced attorney who can advise on business structure and tax issues regardless of whether you are starting a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or even an LLC.
A business attorney can help you understand the risks involved in each and how to protect yourself. They can also advise you on the required legal documents, help you draft organizational bylaws as well as employee contracts.
4. If Your Driving License Is at Risk of Suspension
If you are arrested for driving without insurance, points on your license, failure to pay parking tickets, among others, your driving license can be suspended. Being in an accident or breaking various other traffic rules can also lead to suspension or even revocation. However, suspension and revocation laws vary from one state to another.
Fortunately, everyone has the right to a hearing before the final verdict is rendered. Since this is a legal matter, it is important to have legal support. Contacting your attorney helps you present reliable arguments as to why you should retain your driver’s license.
5. When You Want to Terminate an Employment Contract
Employment contracts are legally binding documents that are, in most cases, governed by both federal and state laws. This is why it is important to contact an attorney before terminating an employment contract, whether you are the employer or employee. Remember, any one of the two parties can sue when termination is done haphazardly, and it can be costly for the offending party.
6. If You Are in the Real Estate Sector
If you are in this sector, you need a real estate lawyer who can help you understand construction, zoning, and building laws and codes. They can also help you review:
- Mortgage documents
- Purchase agreements
- Transfer documents and
- Title documents
Apart from that, they can help you handle any disagreements that arise with clients and sellers.
While some issues seem easy to handle, consulting a lawyer helps you avoid doing things you ought not to have done. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you legally vulnerable, contacting an attorney is always your best option.