Online Legal Advice
From Adviceopedia
You can save a lot of money searching for online legal advice. However, it is always good idea to hire a lawyer if you are unsure how to proceed.
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Online Legal Advice and Tips
If you need legal advice, the Internet is a great source. Utilize search engines like Google and Yahoo to help you find information about important legal issues in your life. Employing online legal advice can save you money by allowing you to research your options without consulting an attorney.
Laws by State
Every state looks at a situation differently. Before you know if you have a case, you will want to first check your state laws. HG.org offers a worldwide legal directory to help give you a start. Even when getting online legal advice, keep your state laws in mind.
Document Everything
If you think you will be involved in a legal battle, or you find yourself in a situation where you are wronged or being accused of something you didn’t do, make sure you document everything. Keeping a dated record of anything that is relevant can help you when it comes time to preparing your case.
Different ways to document your case include:
- Keep all emails and written correspondence sent to you
- Make copies of anything you send
- Take photos and video as soon as something happens that may be a factor
- Write down names of all witnesses and if possible, ask them to give you a written and signed statement
- Keep a journal with detailed notes on what is happening and the date it occurred. Keep to the facts. Be as detailed as possible.
Small Claims Court
A small claims court is part of the judicial system where you can sue up to $5000 without a lawyer. The judgment is made directly by the judge, without a jury. If money is tight, consider looking into prepaid legal advice.
Hiring an Attorney
For issues you can not handle yourself, you will want to consult with an attorney. In many cases, an attorney will save you money in the long run and help find the most successful solutions. When interviewing lawyers, look at:
- How much he charges (including per hour, filing, and other hidden fees)
- What her experience is in your area of need
- If you “click” with him
- That there is no conflict of interest with the other parties involved
Ask around to see who your friends and colleagues recommend.
Filing Bankruptcy
Filing for bankruptcy is a legal way to help give you a fresh start. However, it is not as easy as saying “I am broke.” You will need to file a statement of your assets and liabilities, as well as a list of anyone you owe money, called creditors. Banks, any loans, and credit cards are common creditors.
Since filing bankruptcy can really hurt your credit, and chances of a loan, review alternative options before deciding on this action.
Custody Battle
If you are involved in a custody dispute, you may need to take it before a judge if you can not work it out on your own. If the other party involved is threatening you, make sure you keep detailed records (including pictures, emails and letters) of anything the other party does that will cause the judge to rule in your favor.
Neighbor Dispute
If you and your neighbor are having a dispute, review your options. You can hire a lawyer, take it to court, or try to settle it yourself.
- First determine if the end result is worth the costs.
- Next ask yourself what will happen if you lose. What will you be out if they win?
- Before hiring a lawyer, consider taking up the dispute with your neighbor and seeing if you can find a resolution or compromise on your own.
- Review if your area offers mediation services.
- If you can not resolve the matter on your own, consider taking them to a small claims court.
- Make sure you document everything, using notes and pictures.
Creating a Contract
If you and another party agree upon a service or sale, you will want to draw up a binding contract outlining the terms and conditions of the transaction. Make sure you include:
- Date of contract
- Date effective and date of termination if applicable
- Property or services involved
- Terms including payment, late payments, timeline, and other important details
- Termination of contract clause: what happens if the contract is broken?
- Signatures of all parties involved and date signed
Injury
If you are injured and want to seek damages, go to the hospital as soon as possible. Make sure you file a police report for proof that the event happened. Document everything with pictures and notes. If it is a car accident, contact your insurance company to determine what process they feel is the most effective. In the event of a small injury, consider taking it to small claims court.
