Crime rates are going up in the US, but the FBI’s shift in recording violent crimes has made it difficult to pinpoint the exact surge. But one thing’s for sure: When it comes to getting justice, having a lawyer in your corner is a good idea.
Attorneys help guide clients up the treacherous mountains of the legal system. They know what to do and say, and are connected to the resources that can help your case proceed smoothly.
Looking for a sign to hire a lawyer? Here are 10 surefire indications that it’s time to bring in the big guns.
1. The Police Are Investigating You
Police are trained interrogators who will try to trick you into confessing. They may lie about the evidence against you or offer false promises of leniency in exchange for information.
Politely decline a search request if the authorities don’t have a warrant.
Remember, the right to remain silent isn’t just a suggestion—it’s your legal prerogative. So, zip your lips and call your lawyer before making any moves.
If you’re arrested, it means the officers have enough evidence to convict you of a crime. An attorney can sort through the facts and determine if there’s any way to fight the charges in court.
2. Violation of Rights
A wide range of actions can breach your rights. For example, if you’ve experienced discrimination while searching for housing or employment, you’re entitled to legal action. The same is true for unfair treatment in a divorce or custody battle.
You can also legally punish cops for abusing their power. Whether it’s excessive force, wrongful imprisonment, or bold harassment, hiring a lawyer can help you fight those who have wronged you.
If someone has violated your constitutional rights, you can only receive justice through legal help. Don’t be afraid to explore AlphaAccidentLawyers.com for an attorney who can file your claim.
3. Criminal Accusations
Understand the difference between accusations and being charged with a crime. Being accused means that someone has told police they think you committed a certain act.
For example, someone might say you hit them. This is an accusation. Authorities won’t charge you unless they find proof of the assault.
While accusations don’t go on your permanent record, you should still take them seriously. People are less likely to hire or befriend you if your reputation is sullied by distasteful claims. Reach out to a lawyer so they can gather evidence to clear your name.
4. Filing for Divorce, Custody, or Other Family Issues
Breaking up is hard to do, especially when you’re battling for custody.
If your ex is desperate to be the primary caretaker, they can easily make you look like a negligent parent with false evidence. Altered photos and false statements can sway the judge in your ex’s favor. Luckily, a competent lawyer can identify phony documents from a mile away.
Some individuals also possess a talent for hiding their assets from the prying eyes of the court during the discovery phase. You’ll get unfair alimony payments if your ex’s finances are low during your divorce. An attorney can call detectives to dig up the truth about your ex-partner’s net worth.
5. Your Business Is Facing Legal Issues
90% of all businesses encounter a lawsuit at some point. If you’re not prepared, this can be a devastating blow to your company. Some of the most disastrous cases involve:
- Being sued for mishandling a client’s financial information
- Accusations of copyright violation
- Patent infringement
- A former employee suing for wrongful termination
You’ll need an attorney to help reduce the cost of any damages. They’ll inform you of your rights and obligations under the law, as well as what options are available to resolve the problem. Ideally, this will help prevent future complications.
6. Personal Injuries
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident and need compensation for your bruises, hire an attorney. They know which evidence can sufficiently prove the other driver’s negligence. A lawyer can also help track down witnesses and file paperwork with your insurance company.
Have a family member who’s a victim of malpractice? Get in touch with a law firm. They’ll make sure the doctor who caused your loved one’s death is held accountable for their actions.
You can even seek legal counsel when your child gets hurt in the park. Only an attorney can determine if the park’s rules or architecture are at fault.
A brilliant lawyer can secure coverage for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even funeral expenses.
7. Online Smear Campaign
A smear campaign is a coordinated effort to spread negative information about someone or something. There are lots of ways to do this, but the most common is through social media.
You may be the victim of an online smear campaign if you receive several anonymous complaints that all say similar things. For example, reviewers may say your business is overpriced or doesn’t deliver on time. This is a common tactic used by competitors to make your business less appealing.
A good lawyer can file cease and desist letters or sue for defamation. They can also connect you to reputation management experts so you can repair your image.
Cyberbullying is another form of online harassment that can lead to a bad image. Actions like these are illegal, so you have a strong chance of winning your case. Remember to take screenshots and report all threatening messages.
8. Stolen Identity
To know if someone stole your identity, keep an eye on your credit card and bank statements. Look for unfamiliar purchases or withdrawals.
You should also scan your credit record and report questionable activity to the credit bureau. It’d be wise to request fraud alerts and a freeze on your accounts in this case.
Having a legal eagle by your side can do wonders when you’re a victim of fraud. A lawyer can help you navigate laborious tasks, such as filing police reports, obtaining new credit cards, and making sure your health records remain confidential.
The fraudster may have even landed you in debt while they were parading as you. In that case, your attorney can get in touch with financial institutions and settle disputes.
9. About to Make a Deal
Closing on a home, buying a new car, or hiring a new employee requires you to enter an agreement. It’s important to get a clear understanding of what you’re agreeing to.
Your attorney can negotiate the terms of that agreement so that it is fair to both parties. If you’re selling your house, for example, your lawyer will ensure that the contract lists all exclusions and contingencies of the transaction.
Because they’re familiar with the legal system, lawyers can draft contracts with favorable characteristics, such as:
- Alignment with your legal rights
- Clear expectations of each party
- Legal description of transferable assets
- No business jargon
- Unmistakable deadlines
- Transparent financial obligations
- Specifics of how the contract can be changed
- What happens if one party breaches the agreement
Your lawyer will also help you enforce the contract if either party fails to uphold their end of the bargain. In many cases, this means suing the other party.
But most legal claims don’t end up in court, so you’re more likely to walk away with a juicy settlement if your contract is broken.
10. Questions About Estate Planning
Though thinking about one’s mortality may not be pleasant, estate planning is a necessary step for anyone who owns expensive property. It’s a way to make sure your family shares your wealth as you see fit. This process spares your loved ones any added anxiety during an already tough time.
Hiring a lawyer will save you from the hassle of figuring out jargon-heavy documents like wills and trusts. You can divide your entire estate in as little as one consultation. The legal team will create a plan for the future so your golden years won’t be clouded by financial uncertainty.
Hire a Lawyer That Values You
If you’re facing any of these situations, it’s time to hire a lawyer. Just prepare to pay a few hundred dollars for every hour of legal representation. The cost might seem overwhelming, but avoiding a felony conviction is worth it.
If your budget can’t accommodate legal fees, pick up some penny-pinching tips from our work and money section. With a bit of strategizing, you’ll be able to afford the best lawyer in your city.
