If you are reading this, you are probably looking for some information to help you figure out whether you should hire a lawyer to represent you in a legal matter. Hopefully, the following article will help you because there are many different types of lawyers out there. So, from successful ignition interlock violation to surveyors, how do you know which kind is right?
With so many lawyers out there, you may be wondering which is the right one for your legal issue. Unfortunately, it can be challenging to know which lawyer is right for you. That’s why we’re here to break down five of the most common types of lawyers and when you’ll need them.
Table of Contents
What is a General Lawyer?
A general lawyer specializes in certain areas of law, but not all. So if you have a specific legal issue, your available lawyer could be an excellent person to go to, but you don’t know which type of lawyer to hire.
For example, suppose you are looking for a lawyer specializing in a particular area of law, like real estate or criminal law, but don’t know where to look. In that case, a general lawyer may not be your best option.
But, if you’re looking for a lawyer who can help you with things like bankruptcy or estate planning, a general lawyer may be a great fit.
It’s important to note that not all areas of law are appropriate for every situation or client. Therefore, you will want to ensure that the type of lawyer you choose is a good fit for your particular situation.
Family Lawyer
If you have a family, you should consider hiring a family lawyer. However, no two families are alike, and each family’s situation is unique, making it difficult to know who to call if you need help navigating the legal system.
A family lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, including divorce proceedings, custody battles, adoption, and child support.
Depending on where you live, your family law may be determined by state statute, or it may be determined by a combination of state and federal law.
A family law attorney can help you understand and navigate any legal issues related to family law, including state and federal law, and the laws and rules that apply to families in your specific situation.
Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with a crime, you may be wondering who you should hire. Some people call any lawyer that answers the phone and says they can help them, a criminal defense lawyer. But, a few specific qualifications go along with the title, so make sure you know the difference.
First of all, a criminal defense attorney can help you with several different types of cases, including:
- Federal crimes
- Felonies
- Misdemeanors
- Traffic tickets
- Probation violations
- Drug offenses
- Domestic violence offenses
- Sex offenses
- White-collar crimes
- Juvenile crimes
- Mental health offenses
And many others
- You may or may not need a lawyer to get your charges reduced or dismissed, depending on your situation. While a criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and get your charges reduced or dismissed, you must remember that you are responsible for your legal troubles.
Estate Planning Lawyer
If you plan on leaving a will or making other estate-planning decisions, you should hire a lawyer. Estate planning is a complex area of law that is often determined by state statute and involves questions of intestate succession and your assets’ distribution after you die.
An estate planning lawyer can help you determine what type of will is right for you, as well as help you make other types of estate-planning decisions, like:
- Medical directives
- Power of attorney
- Living trust
- Trust minors
- Avoid probate
And many more
- Depending on your situation, you may not need an estate planning lawyer. But, if you are looking for a lawyer who specializes in estate planning, it is a good idea to have one on your team.
Business Lawyer
If you have a business, you should consider hiring a business lawyer. Business lawyers can help guide you through several different areas of law that are relevant to running a business, including:
- Trademarks
- Copyrights
- Trade secrets
- Patents
And many more
- Depending on your situation, you may not need a business lawyer. But, if you are a business owner or plan to start your own business in the future, a business lawyer can help you avoid making costly mistakes, which could cost you both time and money.
Conclusion
Hiring a lawyer isn’t always necessary. But, if you are unsure who to call or what to do next, a lawyer could be a good resource. Even if you don’t end up hiring one, you may learn something from talking to a lawyer, so don’t be shy—ask for help.
A lawyer’s job is to help clients navigate the legal system and get what they want. So, if you know what type of lawyer you need and when you need it, things will go a lot smoother when you need a lawyer.