what lawyer can help me with lawsuits

by Curt Treutel 10 min read

An attorney who specializes in civil litigation will be your best legal option. You may also find that different attorneys will specialize in different litigation areas as well. For example, a corporate litigation lawyer should have the expertise to help you with commercial litigation issues.

A lawsuit lawyer, also known as a civil attorney or litigator, are lawyers that are hired by private individuals and entities to pursue a claim or to defend them in a civil lawsuit. In general, civil lawsuits typically attempt to address and resolve legal issues that affect people and organizations.

Full Answer

Who hires an attorney to file a lawsuite?

This could include:

  • Claims where you and the insurance adjuster don’t agree early on
  • Expensive or complex claims
  • Large claims, such as house damage after a fire, extensive water problem or tornado
  • Claims where fault is hard to establish

What type of lawyer handles civil suits?

  • You’ll have certainty about the financial outcome as the parties, rather than a jury, are in control
  • Your dispute will be over much sooner than if you go through an entire trial
  • If you’re owed money, you’ll get it much faster
  • Your lawyer fees will be significantly lower

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What type of Attorney handles lawsuits against?

Personal Injury - Lawyers who handle all types of injury cases. Auto Accident - Find an attorney focusing on car accidents, insurance claims, and related lawsuits. Workers Compensation - If you were injured on the job, chances are your only legal remedy is a workers compensation claim.

How do you file a lawsuit against an attorney?

  • You also can send in your documents and file your initial papers by email. ...
  • You'll have to pay a filing fee of $400 to initiate your lawsuit in federal court.
  • If you can't afford the filing fee, you can file a form asking the court to waive the fees in your case. ...

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What are the best things to sue for?

Top 6 Reasons to SueFor Monetary Compensation. You can litigate against an entity who has committed some negligent action through which you suffer an injury. ... For Protecting Your Property. ... For Replacing a Trustee. ... For Getting a Divorce. ... For Enforcing the Terms of a Contract. ... For Discrimination and Harassment.

How do you successfully win a lawsuit?

Tips for Success in the CourtroomMeet Your Deadlines. ... Choose a Judge or Jury Trial. ... Learn the Elements of Your Case. ... Make Sure Your Evidence Is Admissible. ... Prepare a Trial Notebook.Learn the Ropes.Watch Some Trials. ... Be Respectful.More items...

How do you negotiate before suing?

Offer to Compromise Before You Sue Before you reach for pen and paper, try to negotiate directly with the person, preferably in person. Know that any offer of compromise, made either orally or in writing, does not legally bind you to sue for that amount if the compromise is not accepted.

How do I prepare for a lawsuit?

How to Prepare for an Impending LawsuitDocument Everything. Even before a lawsuit is filed, it is important to gather evidence that might be useful during the litigation or at an eventual trial for a matter. ... Don't Settle Early. ... Talk to Witnesses. ... Talk to Insurance Professionals. ... Talk to an Attorney.

What makes a successful lawsuit?

In a lawsuit, it is not about who is right or wrong, but what you can prove. The best proof is often in the form of documentary or other visual evidence. All of us have witnessed in today's Youtube society the impact that visual evidence can impact a person's opinion.

Can you beat a case without lawyer?

Whatever the reason, you have the right to represent yourself, to be your own lawyer in all cases in California. But just because you can represent yourself does not mean you should.

How long does lawsuit take to settle?

Some settle within 3 months while others can take several years. In some cases, a settlement is not achieved and a personal injury lawsuit goes to trial.

Why do lawyers take so long to settle a case?

The reasons a case can progress slowly can be summed up into three general points: Your case is slowed down by legal or factual problems. Your case involves a lot of damages and substantial compensation. You have not reached maximum medical improvement from your injuries (this will be explained below)

How long does it take to negotiate a settlement?

The average settlement negotiation takes one to three months once all relevant variables are presented. However, some settlements can take much longer to resolve. By partnering with skilled legal counsel, you can speed up the negotiation process and secure compensation faster.

What can you sue for emotional distress?

If someone causes you mental stress and trauma — such as anxiety or paranoia — you can sue him or her for damages under the legal theory of emotional distress. But in reality, securing damages for stress and trauma is pretty challenging. Damages are awarded only when certain circumstances are present.

How long does a civil lawsuit take?

While an actual trial in court usually takes only a few days, the pre-trial process and the process of preparing a case can take weeks or months. In especially complex cases where both sides present extensive witnesses and lots of technical evidence, even the trial process can stretch on for a long time.

What happens if there is no evidence in a case?

Evidence which fails to meet the burden of proof. In a trial, if the prosecution finishes presenting their case and the judge finds they have not met their burden of proof, the judge may dismiss the case (even before the defense presents their side) for insufficient evidence.

What a Lawsuits & Disputes lawyer can do for you

If you're facing a lawsuit, or planning on bringing one, it's time to lawyer up. For anything beyond a small claims case, using the court system to handle disputes requires an attorney experienced with the process.

Why hire a Lawsuits and disputes attorney

If you make a big purchase and later decide you to return the item, what can you do if the store refuses to refund your money? You can file a lawsuit and proceed with litigation, but the process can be costly and time-consuming. The law provides several other methods to resolve disputes and all offer unique advantages.

What Kind of Lawyer Do You Need?

There are literally thousands of subspecialties of lawyers, but most fall into a smaller number of areas of practice. The following types of lawyers can be found on AllLaw.com:

Learn More

Finding the Right Lawyer - Tips on finding and choosing the right attorney for your case and your needs.

Still Unsure?

A good place to start is by contacting an experienced attorney in your community. While many attorneys specialize in a certain area of law, like personal injury or intellectual property, there are many attorneys who offer a full spectrum of services to provide aid to individuals who need help facing all sorts of legal issues that arise in life.

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When and Why You Should Get it In Writing - Not every contract has to be in writing to be valid and enforceable, but some contracts should be. How do you know when you need a written contract and what to put in it?

What to Look for in a Lawyer

Before looking for an attorney, decide what kind you need. Common fields include:

Find Free and Low-Cost Legal Help

These programs offer a variety of ways to get legal aid. Some limit their services to people with low incomes.

Find Legal Resources for Specific Groups

Stateside Legal - Find free legal help for military members, veterans, and their families.

Do you have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They'll get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

What to do if your lawyer doesn't warn you?

If your lawyer candidate doesn’t warn you on how suing can backfire, run. If they claim they are the best around, they aren't. If their goal is extorting a pre-trial settlement go elsewhere and find a lawyer who is willing, if needed, to go all the way to a final judgment. Good ones will. Finally, never lie.

What do PIABA lawyers sue?

I've been watching them over decades, and they’re pretty good. PIABA lawyers also sue mutual funds, hedge funds, and investment advisers. These may end up in court or arbitration, depending on the contracts you signed.

What is the first chair of trial law?

You want what is called a good “first chair” trial lawyer. In TV court dramas where three lawyers sit together, the first chair is the one speaking to the judge. The others, support and prep litigators, whisper in the first chair’s ear.

Can I use an attorney in Nebraska?

Several states like California, Michigan and Nebraska won’t let you use an attorney. Rules vary by state. If you’re alone and your opponent has a good attorney, you’re at a huge disadvantage. Sadly, any lawyer can go to court.

Why do lawyers not give legal advice?

The reason for this is due to special ethical and professional rules that lawyers and those providing legal advice have to follow. In fact, most of them cannot provide actual legal advice. They can only offer free legal information (e.g., where to find a particular court form, etc.). Thus, if an individual needs actual legal advice ...

Who can be appointed as a free legal representative?

In criminal cases, those who cannot afford a lawyer will be appointed a free legal representative by the court. These representatives are usually selected from the local public defender’s office. The main purpose of appointing a public defender is to ensure that people who cannot pay for legal assistance in a criminal case will still receive fair ...

What is a legal clinic?

A legal clinic is a service that allows current law students to gain experience by working on real-life cases under the supervision of a faculty advisor (e.g., usually a law school professor who is also a lawyer).

Who is Jaclyn from LegalMatch?

Prior to joining LegalMatch, Jaclyn was a paralegal and freelance writer.

Can the government refuse to pay for a lawyer?

So long as a person qualifies for free legal representation, the government cannot refuse to pay for their lawyer because it would violate ...

Do lawyers have to discuss fees before hiring?

While each lawyer may have different conditions for this fee arrangement, a person should be sure to discuss all of the terms of the agreement before they hire them. Lastly, though a person may be responsible for minor costs like filing fees or expert witness fees, the outcome may be worth the smaller expenses.

Do lawyers get paid for contingency fees?

On the other hand, if a lawyer has agreed to take a case on a contingency fee basis and they do not prevail, they will be paid nothing for their services.

What happens if you can't afford a lawyer?

In a criminal proceeding, if you can't afford legal assistance, a court will appoint an attorney for you. In a civil case, generally described as a dispute between two private parties, to get legal representation, you have to get creative. Here's how to find legal help if you can't afford a lawyer:

What is legal aid?

Legal aid societies are nonprofit organizations found in almost every corner of the country that provide free legal services to low-income people. While this is certainly worth exploring, the problem for many households is that the individual or couple makes too much money to qualify for help.

What does it mean to spend time in court?

And to add fuel to the fire, spending time preparing for a court case can mean losing wages or part of a salary. In short, if you don't have the time to self-educate, and if you can't find enough free legal advice to help you have your day in court, it's a wise decision to seek out a competent attorney.

What happens if you lose a case?

That is, if you lose your case, you won't pay money, but if you win, the law firm will take a portion of the money awarded to you. However, it's important to tread carefully before picking a lawyer. Choose a reputable attorney and make sure the rate is agreed upon before the lawyer takes your case.

Can a lawyer represent you on contingency?

It's risky for lawyers to take cases on contingency, and they need to be confident a judge or jury will side with you, and that there's going to be something sizable awarded to you. While no legal expert will suggest you represent yourself, it is an option if you're in a financial bind.

Can you go to small claims court after divorce?

For instance, you can't go to small claims court if you're trying to work out your financial affairs after a divorce. But if the stakes are fairly low where someone owes you money or is trying to collect money from you, and it isn't worth risking lawyer fees, you might consider small claims court.

Do attorneys give discounts?

An attorney might give you a discount. Also, many attorneys offer payment plans, so that you're paying monthly instead of one huge sum all at once. Of course, you could hit the jackpot and find a pro bono lawyer, or you might find someone willing to take your case on contingency.

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Accidents& Injuries

  • When you’ve been injured by another person or business. Most Common Types 1. Personal Injury- Lawyers who handle all types of injury cases. 2. Auto Accident- Find an attorney focusing on car accidents, insurance claims, and related lawsuits. 3. Workers Compensation- If you were injured on the job, chances are your only legal remedy is a workers com...
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Corporate,Small Business, Contracts & Personal Finance

  • For business owners and investors. Most Common Types 1. Business- These lawyers draw up contracts and advise business owners on legal issues, as well as provide representation in legal cases. 2. Securities- Investment fraud & wrongdoing.
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Crimes& Criminal Records

  • If you’ve been accused or charged witha crime. Most Common Types 1. Criminal Defense- These are the lawyers to call after you've been arrested. 2. DUI and DWI- These lawyers focus on defending drunk driving cases. Other Types 1. Expungement(Record Sealing) 2. Traffic Tickets
See more on alllaw.com

Debtrelief

  • When you need help dealing with debt. Most Common Types 1. Bankruptcy- Help getting bankruptcy protection. 2. Debt Settlement- Negotiate repayment of your debt. 3. Foreclosure- Help deal with a foreclosure case. 4. Tax- These lawyers can help if you're facing large tax debts.
See more on alllaw.com

Disability Benefits

  • If you’ve become injured or disabled,and can no longer work. Most Common Types 1. Social Security Disability- These attorneys specialize in helping claimants win disability benefits from the SSA. 2. Long Term Disability(For Privatedisability insurance claims.) Other Types 1. Disability (Generalists)For state-based and other disability claims. For disability discrimination see Employ…
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Employment& Labor Law

  • If you’re an employee or employer witha legal problem related to a job. Most Common Types 1. Employment- These lawyers cover cases related to labor law. 2. Wrongful Termination- These attorneys focus on cases where employees were illegally fired. Other Types 1. Overtime Pay 2. Sexual Harassment 3. Unemployment
See more on alllaw.com

Estate Planning - Wills & Trusts

  • When you need to prepare an estate plan, need help with inheritance issues, or need to administer an estate after someone has died. Most Common Types 1. Estate Planning- If you need to draft a will, trust, power of attorney, advance directive, or complete estate plan. 2. Probate- Probate lawyers help administer estates after someone has passed away.
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Family& Divorce

  • Everything related to family, from marriage to divorce. Most Common 1. Divorce- If you're facing or going through a divorce, these lawyers can help will all related matters. 2. Family- Family lawyers can help with everything from prenuptial agreements, adoptions, guardianships and more. Other Types 1. Child Custody 2. Child Support
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Immigration

  • When you or someone you are trying tohelp needs to get into (temporarily or permanently) the United States. Most Common Types 1. Immigration Law- An immigration attorney can help navigate the complex world of U.S. Visas, Green Cards, Work Visas, Citizenship, and more. Other Types 1. Deportation Defense 2. Applications for Permanent Residence (Green Card)
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Intellectualproperty – Patents, Trademarks, Copyright & Licensing

  • If you’ve invented something or aremaking music or other entertainment related products. Most Common Types 1. Intellectual Property- Intellectual property lawyers specialize in patents, trademarks, and copyright issues, as well as licensing and other related uses of your intellectual property. 2. Patents- These lawyers focus on drawing up and processing patent applications to t…
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