Finding a Lawyer
If you need legal help, it is important to find the right kind of attorney for your case. Because lawyers specialize in different areas of the law, you want to look for someone who has experience trying your type of case. In addition to area of expertise, some things to consider when choosing a lawyer include:
- Experience.
- The lawyer’s record (how often they have won cases).
- Compassion.
- Reputation (be sure to look at reviews and ask friends for recommendations).
Cost is also an important factor, as legal representation can be expensive. Fortunately, you may be able to find lawyers who work on a pro bono or contingency basis.
A pro bono attorney is typically a volunteer who offers free legal representation to certain groups, such as people with low incomes, children, the elderly, veterans or victims of domestic violence.
A lawyer who works on a contingency basis does not charge you any out-of-pocket fees. Instead, they only get paid if they win. They will take a portion of the money you are awarded in a settlement or a legal decision. They will usually take around 30 percent.
Here are some different types of lawyers who may be able to help you:
Veterans lawyers specialize in helping veterans with different kinds of legal issues. Many of these lawyers work pro bono or for non-profit law firms. This means you may qualify for free legal representation. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides lists of legal clinics that help veterans, often free of charge.
Bankruptcy lawyers can help you if you are unable to pay your debts. The bankruptcy process can be difficult, but a good lawyer can guide you through it and make sure you get the best outcome.
Personal Injury and Workers Comp Attorneys can help you get compensation if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence or wrong action. If you were injured at work and your employer does not pay you workers compensation, a worker comp lawyer can help argue on your behalf.
Medical malpractice lawyers are a type of personal injury lawyer. They specialize in cases where clients have been harmed through the negligence or wrong actions of medical professionals, such as doctors. They can help you get compensation if you have been wrongfully harmed by a medical professional.
Wrongful Death Attorneys can help you if a loved one died due to the negligence or wrongful actions of someone else.
Car accident attorneys are often personal injury lawyers who specialize in car accident cases. They have experience working with car insurance companies in the legal system. If you experienced an injury or damage in a car crash, a car accident attorney will fight on your behalf to make sure an insurance company pays you. These attorneys will often work on a contingency basis.
Divorce or family lawyers can represent you in cases involving divorce, child custody, child support, alimony or adoption.