This is a question I get almost every day. I use a simple analogy. If you're car breaks down, do you call a mechanic? Generally, you do, because you probably do not know how to repair cars. In a legal situation, you probably do not know what to do, so, generally, yes, you do need a lawyer. Cases are time sensitive with deadlines and rules, so a delay can ultimately result in damage to your case.
It depends. For some uncontested cases the costs can be minimal (as legal costs go). For example, an uncontested divorce with no children and property issues can be done for $500 plus the filing fees. Many times, though, cases are contested, therefore, we must charge by the hour because the amount of work required to do the job is uncertain. We must charge a retainer for these cases. The retainer costs can vary, depending on the scope and complexity of your case. However, we can sometimes split the retainers up in multiple payments and set you up on a payment plan.
Sometimes you may need a document review or document preparation. Call us.
Call us to set up an appointment. We offer a free 10 minute consultation. If you need more time, we offer a flat fee of $125 for an hour's consultation. If we need a little more time, we'll take it. We want to make sure we understand your problem and situation. Your problem is our problem.
Are you one of these attorneys that won't call me back?
I will call you back every time you call usually within the day. However, sometimes I have court, mediations, or meetings that I can't control. You can rest assured that I will call you at the first opportunity, even if I have to call you after or before working hours.
Have you ever handled a case like mine before?
I've handled hundreds of cases. Each case is unique, that's why it's called a case. I can assure you that I've handled similar cases and can recognize the important legal issues that need to be determined.
Is there an advantage to hiring an attorney in the county in which they are located?
Someone once said that a good lawyer knows the law and a great lawyer knows the judges. I think knowing the judges, the system, and the local rules give a local attorney an advantage over someone who is not familiar with the local rules and the individual judges. I practice in Gwinnett County and I think I have an advantage by knowing this sytem and these judges. The bottom line is that we're all playing with the same rules and our Gwinnett County judges are knowledgeable, competent, and equitable.
