People often hire a lawyer to deal with a lawsuit or criminal charges. Executors in probate proceedings must hire an attorney to represent the estate and third-party interests. 

But a lawyer can be useful in many other situations. If you're writing a legal document or have legal questions, it's a good idea to consult a legal professional. A lawyer can inform you about your rights, write paperwork on your behalf, and give you advice on how to proceed. Example scenarios where it helps to have an attorney include:

• divorce or child custody disputes;
• buying or selling property;
• writing a will;
• writing a contract;
• disagreement with an HOA;
• starting or running a business.

Initial consultation with a law firm is often free. It can help you determine if a lawyer is a good fit for your situation. Finding a Lawyer page has more information about what to look for. 

Understanding the Law

Small claims cases of $20,000 or less are tried in Justice of the Peace (JP) courts. People often represent themselves as JP courts are less formal than district and county courts.

Hiring an attorney isn't required, but it can be helpful. This is especially true if you have a less-than-straightforward case.

Understanding the Law

A lawyer can provide a variety of services. Specifics will depend on the client's needs. An attorney may:

• provide legal advice;
• communicate on the client's behalf;
• represent the client in negotiations and court proceedings;
• prepare a case for trial;
• write, review, and file legal documents;
• guide the client through the legal system.

The articles below discuss the variety of services you might expect from a lawyer. 

Understanding the Law

If you only need limited services or can't afford full representation, limited scope representation or "unbundled legal services" can be an affordable alternative. It could be a good option if you're looking for:

• an hour or two of legal advice;
• help with a form;
• review of a contract;
• help representing yourself.

There is no single list of attorneys who offer unbundled services. You may have to contact them individually to ask about limited representation. 

Understanding the Law

If you don't want to hire an attorney, a legal hotline may be able to help. Hotlines offer free legal assistance over the phone or online. They may answer simple legal questions but usually won't be able to help with complex problems or offer extended assistance.

You may have to meet certain income requirements to qualify for free services.

Understanding the Law

If you're facing criminal charges and can't afford an attorney, you may be eligible for a court-appointed attorney. 

Parties to most civil lawsuits do not qualify for court-appointed attorneys (with some exceptions). If you make below a certain income, you can apply for free legal aid or try to find a "pro bono" attorney to take your case.

Understanding the Law

These printed books are available for in-person borrowing at the library.