Do I need a lawyer for this? Many people faced with a crime or traffic violation ask themselves, “Do I need a lawyer for this?” As with most questions these days, people usually turn to the internet as you most likely have done to reach this page.
While the internet can be very helpful in countless ways, there are some limitations when it comes to the law.
There is a very good reason why lawyers are required to spend at least three very intensive years of study and instruction in law school and then required to pass the bar(a test which takes many months of dedicated study to pass).
I often get calls from friends and family who want me to handle a case for them in areas of law other than criminal or traffic. They ask me, “Do I need a lawyer for this? And if so can you do it?” I always tell them the same thing. And that is, that I am not qualified and would not be comfortable in that area of law.
That should tell you something. I did go to law school. I was instructed, taught, and tested by great professors. I have a Juris Doctorate. I passed the bar in three different states, and I have 25 years of experience with the law.
But I also know enough to know that I would be over my head in a products liability case or even an adoption. I would advise my friend or family member to seek out a lawyer who has experience practicing that kind of law. A lawyer who knows what they are doing.
I would love to be able to help my friends and family. It pains me not to be able to assist them. But I would not be a good friend or family member if I took their case and messed it up for them. And that is what would happen.
So, even with my experience and law degree I would not even attempt to read up on the internet, thinking I could make myself competent in areas of law that I have not studied in 25 years, or ever practiced.
If you are charged with a crime or a traffic violation that you do not want on your record, call a lawyer. My consultations are free. There are some situations where you may not need a lawyer. If that is the case I will tell you.
I talk with people almost every day who I wish had spoken to me first before they took action on their case.