When Do You Need to Consult With an Attorney?

The best time to consult with an attorney is when you don’t need one. Whenever you have concerns about a potential problem, that is the time to talk to a lawyer.

Here are a few of the reasons to consult with an attorney:

1. Get the facts. Talk to a currently licensed attorney in your state that practices in the area of the law where you have questions. 2. Get current knowledge. What was the law 5–20 years ago might not be the law today. 3. It reduces stress and is empowering. Most people are scared and don’t know what to do next. Being paralyzed and ignoring problems usually makes the situation worse. 4. You need to talk to someone that will consider all possible outcomes in your case — someone that can see the pros and cons of both sides. 5. It can save you money. Many people try to do it themselves in an attempt to save money, but mistakes can be costly. The Texas Supreme Court has authorized free Texas forms for Texas residents on www.texaslawhelp.org.

The best time to consult with an attorney is BEFORE any life cycle event or possible crisis — such as BEFORE: • Opening or closing a business, forming a partnership or corporation. • Signing a contract — such as an apartment lease, promissory note, car loan, or employment contract. • Contemplating marriage, separation, or having a child (including adoption). • Buying or selling a major asset such as real estate. • Having any surgical procedure — to make sure your wishes are carried out in case you are unable to speak for yourself. • Considering retirement. • Helping your aging parents — before they are mentally incompetent or need to move into assisted living. • Considering pleading guilty (or no contest) to a traffic ticket or criminal charge. • Conflicts with neighbors, relatives, friends, or employers — before the situation gets out of control.

WHAT SORT OF ATTORNEY DO I NEED? 1. An attorney that practices primarily in your area of concern. For example, if you have a divorce case in Texas, don’t call a corporate attorney in Oklahoma. 2. An attorney that listens to you, seems interested in your case, and speaks so that you can understand legal terms and concepts. 3. An attorney that explains the pros and cons of your case. 4. An attorney that you trust — you need an attorney on your side and working with you. 5. An attorney that insists on both of you signing a Legal Services Agreement so that you both understand the scope of the representation and the fees.