Lawyers

Some background info There are more than 1 million lawyers in the U.S. Most lawyers rarely go to court –They give advice, negotiate settlements, and provide out-of-court legal assistance Lawyers who go to trial are called litigators

When do you need a lawyer? Everyday situations Buying or selling real estate Organizing a business Divorce or adoption Making a will Signing an important contract When you get into trouble Handling accidents involving personal injury or property damage Defending a criminal charge Bringing a civil suit A bar association – an organization that licenses lawyers – can help you determine if you need a lawyer

How do you find a lawyer? Try to get a recommendation from a friend or family member Look in the phone book Try to find a lawyer who specializes in the area where you need help if possible If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may be able to get assistance from the public defender’s office

Hiring a lawyer Interview multiple lawyers before choosing one Ask for an estimate of the total charge for their services up front Retainer – a down payment on the total legal fee Contingency fee – client pays a percentage of the settlement to the lawyer if he wins, but owes him nothing if he loses

Working with your lawyer Privilege – whatever you tell your lawyer about the case is confidential –Cannot be disclosed without your permission Attorneys should help you understand what is going on and give you advice, but you have to make the important decisions Lawyers must follow a standard of conduct and need to pass a test to become a member of the state bar A lawyer can be disbarred if he violates the standard of conduct – he loses his license to practice law If a lawyer makes a serious error, he can be sued for legal malpractice