Do I Need Lawyer? 15 Reasons You Should Consult a Lawyer
You Should Consult a Lawyer When…
The following are good reasons to get a lawyer:
- Being Charged with a Crime
- Being Arrested or Being Detained for Questioning
- Buying or Selling Real Estate
- Signing an Important Document or Contract
- Seeking to Patent Your Invention
- Seeking to Visit, Study in, Work in, or Immigrate to Canada
- Preparing a Will or Power of Attorney
- Being Involved in an Accident
- Getting a Divorce or Separating from a Common-law Partner
- Deciding on Custody, Access, or Child Support
- Incorporating your Business or Entering into a Business Partnership
- If You’re an Employee: Getting Fired or “Let Go”
- If You’re the Boss: Firing or Letting Go of an Employee
- If You’re a Tenant: Getting Evicted
- If You’re a Landlord: Evicting a Tenant
It is almost impossible to make it through life without experiencing a legal matter of some sort. While it is often possible to handle your own legal matters, you will usually have a much better outcome if you consult with a reputable lawyer.
For example, you can make your own Will in some jurisdictions simply by writing it all in your own handwriting, dating it, and signing at the bottom. However, these Wills are not valid in all jurisdictions, often contain significant errors or omissions, and can more easily be challenged in Court.
To use another example, if you’ve been detained by the police for questioning, you may think you will help yourself by speaking frankly with the police without a lawyer present, but this can be a big mistake. It is better to say nothing until you’ve met with a lawyer and discussed your rights.
For help when hiring a lawyer, see: Tips When Hiring A Lawyer
