Need Advice on a Legal Issue? Who Do You Call?
If you need legal advice, but do not have an attorney, you may wonder what your options are. Sometimes the question to hire an attorney or not is tricky, and you may not feel it's necessary to hire an attorney at this stage, but have some general questions or concerns you'd like to discuss. Of course, you want to receive good advice, but where should you look? Here are a few suggestions:
- Federally Funded Programs are available for advice and for representation. These services are generally provided to low income people by staff attorneys and/or paralegals. To find these programs, check your yellow pages under “legal services.”
- Pro Bono Attorneys are available in most state, local, and county bar associations. These attorneys will provide free legal advice and representation on a case by case basis. Check with the bar associations to see if this service is offered in your locality.
- Bar Associations often will answer general legal questions over the phone. Call your local bar associations to see if they offer this service. If not, they will be able to direct you to another source.
- Legal Clinics are set up all around the country that offer legal services by local, volunteer attorneys. These clinics are more of a question and answer type session, and can be held in a group format or in a one-on-one situation.
- Low Cost Legal Programs are also available for those that do not qualify for free legal services. These programs tend to offer telephone hotlines that you can call to get your questions answered. While you will have to pay a fee, it will be far less than hiring an attorney.
- Make an Appointment with an Attorney . This is normally the step made right before hiring an attorney, and you will likely be charged a consultation fee, however, it's a great way to get some one-on-one time with a legal professional. You will be able to ask your questions during the consultation, and many attorneys offer a free 30 minute consultation.
- Call your Local Law School and ask about free consultations. Many times they can hook you up with an attorney to answer your questions for free. If nothing else, they may be able to give you advice on where to go in your locality.
Before taking advantage of any of the above, be sure to document any legal issues you are having, write out your questions, and be prepared to answer theirs. If you're unsure with the advice you receive, get a second opinion, and do not be afraid to ask whatever questions you have.
A lot of basic questions can be answered on the Internet, as well. Remember, though, if you're in a serious legal situation, the best advice is always to get a lawyer to represent you. They know the ins and outs of the law and will be able to help you far better than you can yourself.