Most people go about their lives assuming they will never have to hire a lawyer – believing that the only courtroom drama they’ll ever witness will be through a TV screen.
However, there are many situations that you may find yourself in that require you to hire a lawyer, whether you’ve made a mistake or if you get caught up in something that isn’t your fault.
As such, being aware of the different occasions when you should reach out to a lawyer can help you move forward, whether you’re looking to get charges dismissed or preparing for a court battle. It can also help to navigate the process of hiring a lawyer, such as by figuring out their specialty and setting aside some money to cover legal fees.
Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash
With that in mind, here are four times you may need to hire a lawyer!
You’ve been involved in an accident at work.
It is the responsibility of the employer to create a safe workplace for all employees by making a documented effort to reduce common workplace hazards. If they’ve fallen short, and you’re injured at no fault of your own, you may want to hire a lawyer who can fight on your side. This will ensure you receive fair compensation as a result of your accident, especially if you are now facing expensive medical bills and have to take time off work.
You’re facing criminal charges.
It goes without saying that you need to hire a lawyer if you are facing criminal charges, but you’d be surprised about how many defendants do not ask for a lawyer until the last minute, during which time the charges are harder to dismiss. As such, if you’re dealing with criminal proceedings, be sure to reach out to an attorney, such as a lawyer from Sitkoff & Hanrahan, LLP, sooner rather than later.
You’re involved in a car accident.
Hiring a lawyer can also be beneficial if you have been involved in a car accident, regardless as to whether or not you are at fault. Again, this is particularly pertinent if you are facing a lot of financial burdens after the accident – whether this be in the form of medical bills or the cost of repairing any damage caused to your car. While your insurance policy can come in handy here, having a lawyer who can advocate for you in court and take you through every step of the process will give you the best chance of securing the optimal outcome.
You’re starting your own business.
If you’re considering turning your passion into a business, hiring a lawyer could also be useful – even when your business is in its early stages of development. For example, they will be able to ensure that you adhere to relevant business laws and regulations, which reduces the chances of you facing legal consequences further down the line. This also ensures that your business gets off on the right foot, reducing any stress and anxiety you may be feeling at this time.