1. Why do I need to retain a lawyer?

You may have a legal problem and not know how to resolve it. Lawyers have been specially trained in the law and experienced in our court system. And the right lawyer can advise and assist you with your particular problem.

If you are facing a lawsuit, for example, a lawyer can help you understand your rights, and the strengths and weaknesses of your case. A lawyer knows the rules and procedures for arguing the case in court. And a lawyer can make a big difference in whether or not your side of the story is successfully presented to a judge or jury.

A lawyer can help you get a divorce, draw up a will, or prepare a contract. Or, if you have been mistreated, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit. Some lawyers handle a variety of legal problems; others specialize in certain areas of the law.

Failing to call a lawyer quickly can make a situation worse. Someone should assess liability, interview the witnesses, and gather evidence as soon as possible.

Preventive legal advice could save you time, trouble and money by doing things right before legal problems arise. Take, for example, the purchase of your real estate and automobiles. You might have a problem in the future if you sign the purchase agreement without completely understanding it. Or, maybe you are launching a business with a partner. A lawyer could point out the advantages and drawbacks of various partnership arrangements.

These are just a few of the many situations in which lawyers can provide advice and assistance.

2. How closely will I be involved in my lawyer's work?

It will depend on your particular arrangement. You may be able to help by gathering papers and other evidence and by lining up witnesses. In any case, you should tell the lawyer everything you can about your problem and report any new developments immediately. To do a good job, the lawyer must know everything you know - including information that could be damaging to your case or that may seem unimportant to you.

Ask the lawyer to explain the various steps involved in handling your problem. You also could request copies of all letters and documents prepared for your case. And you may want to know how often the lawyer will update you. Depending on your situation, the lawyer may be able to provide a timetable that lays out the steps in the case. However, this may not always be possible. If you are involved in a lawsuit, for example, the court's schedule and backlog will influence how long your case will take.

If you have any questions as your case moves along, call the lawyer. However, keep in mind that, depending on the fee arrangement, you could be charged for the lawyer's time during the phone call.

3. Can I hire a lawyer to just handle certain parts of my legal matter?

Yes, in some cases. limited scope representation - hiring an attorney to assist you on particular aspects of your case - may be appropriate for you. Whether it is a good option in your case could depend on the complexity of your legal matter and your financial situation. Generally, limited representation involves less cost.

While some attorneys will not work solely on portions of a case, others will agree to provide limited representation. These attorneys may be referred to as consulting attorneys, coaches or providers of unbundled legal services. Such attorneys do not take on the full responsibility for overseeing or handling your case. The limits of the representation are set by agreement. If you choose such representation, make sure you understand the extent of the attorney's services. Such services might include, for example, assistance with a negotiation strategy, representation at a particular court hearing or the attorney's "sign-off" on any legal agreement.

4. Should I hire Counts Law Firm, PC?

After your initial consultation you and the attorney will know if legal representation is right. Before the meeting, jot down key points in your case to share with the lawyer. Bring the names, addresses and telephone numbers of everyone connected with the case. In addition, bring all papers related to the case. Ask about any similar cases that the lawyer has handled. And keep in mind that age may have nothing to do with the lawyer's ability to help you. A lawyer who has practiced 20 years may have less experience with your type of problem than a lawyer who is three years out of law school.