Benefits of Having

The day may come when you need to hire a lawyer (or at least consult with one). Often, when this occurs, it is a scary time. You may have been accused of a crime that you didn’t commit. You may also be facing jail time if you lose your battle. Another reason that you may need a lawyer is if you are going through a divorce. If you have children, you may be scared that you are going to lose them.

No matter the reason why you need a lawyer, you are going to need to find the right one. It will make a big difference in your case. You need to find one that you trust so that you can win your case.

Once you hire a lawyer, you are going to have a formal lawyer-and-client relationship. This relationship provides legal protection along with some benefits.

When does the lawyer-and-client relationship start?

Your relationship begins as soon as your lawyer decides to help you. Most people think that this starts when they decide to take your case.

However, there are times when it starts sooner than that. Your relationship begins the very first time that you consult with them, even if you just call them up and ask for advice. Any meetings in their office or anywhere else can also be the beginning of your relationship.

What does the relationship mean to you? Here are some benefits of having a lawyer and client relationship.

Your lawyer works for you (and only you). They are not legally allowed to work with someone who is against you in your case. It is not fair for anyone if their lawyer tries to represent both sides of the argument. No one will win in this situation, except for the lawyer.

That doesn’t mean that your lawyer is only working on your case. Many lawyers juggle multiple cases at a time. However, he or she can’t legally work with the opposing side.

They have a fiduciary duty to you. Fiduciary means your lawyer has to act with your best interest at heart. They have to do everything they can to help you, even if they have to go above and beyond the call of duty. They are required by law to give you their best.

Confidentiality is important. Everything you tell your lawyer is confidential. They are not allowed to repeat anything you say to them to anyone else. The only time they can break your confidence is if you are going to harm you or someone else, which allows you to be honest with them, telling them everything that you know.

If your lawyer has damaging information, he or she is legally not allowed to testify against you. They are not obligated to disclose incriminating information in court, whether toward you or someone else, which again will enable you to be completely honest with your lawyer. The more that he or she knows, the better off you will be.

What happens if the lawyer doesn't follow these rules? Your lawyer can face a fine, be charged with malpractice, and even lose their license. You can sue the attorney for failing to follow any of the above rules of the professional relationship.

It is essential that you build a good relationship with your lawyer, one based on trust and good faith. Since everything that you say is confidential, you don't have to hold anything back with your lawyer. Tell him or her everything that you know to ensure that you will win your case. The more that he or she knows, the better he or she will be able to help.