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Legal Help FAQs: simple answers to common questions
These legal help FAQs cover lawyers, car accidents, family issues, criminal charges, immigration, bankruptcy, workers’ comp, and insurance. Each answer is short and clear so you can move fast. For advice on your facts, talk to a licensed lawyer.
How do I find the right lawyer?
List your issue, your budget, and your deadline. Check reviews that mention calls returned and clear billing. Ask about experience with cases like yours. Use our Vetting Kit to email three firms and score the answers. Pick the one who explains next steps clearly.
Do I need a lawyer or can I handle this myself?
Small claims, simple tickets, or property-only crashes are sometimes DIY. Injuries, criminal charges, high assets, or immigration risks call for counsel. If you’re unsure, book a short consult and ask for a go-or-no-go opinion in plain English before you pay.
How do attorney fees work?
Common models are contingency (injury), flat fees (simple matters), and hourly (complex work). Ask what’s included, what’s extra, and how often you’ll get updates. Get the fee terms in writing before work starts. Keep every invoice and log questions for each bill.
What should I bring to a consultation?
Bring ID, key dates, other party names, photos, letters, emails, court papers, and insurance info. Make a one‑page timeline with questions you want answered. Save copies in one folder. This keeps the meeting focused and helps the lawyer give a clear plan.
How fast will a lawyer call me back?
Many firms reply within one business day. Ask about response windows before you hire. Agree on your preferred channel—phone, email, or portal—and who you’ll hear from. If you don’t get updates, follow up kindly and log dates so nothing important is missed.
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What should I do right after a car accident?
Check for injuries and call 911 if needed. Take photos, gather names and insurance, and note the report number. See a doctor within 24 hours. Tell your insurer but skip recorded statements for now. Save bills and start a simple log with dates and names.
What is my injury claim worth?
Values depend on medical care, missed work, proof, and fault. Track bills, photos, doctor notes, and how the injury affects daily life. Ask for a range, not a single number, until records are complete. Claims often grow as treatment and documentation improve.
Should I give a recorded statement to the insurer?
You can share documents and photos without a recorded statement. If asked, say you’ll respond in writing. Recorded calls can capture small mistakes. If injuries or fault are disputed, speak with a lawyer first. Keep a call log with dates, names, and short notes.
How long do I have to file an injury claim?
Time limits differ by state and case type. Some are as short as one year. Use our state panel for typical windows and official court links. Act fast: evidence fades. Set reminders now for police reports, medical records, and letters that preserve key data.
What is UM/UIM coverage?
UM covers injuries caused by uninsured drivers. UIM helps when the other driver’s limits are too low. Check your declarations page for limits and stacking rules. If hurt, open a claim with your carrier and keep proof of payments from all sources in one file.
What if the other driver has no insurance?
File a police report, open a claim under UM, and gather proof of damages. If you have health insurance or MedPay, use them for care and keep records. Ask about state victim funds where available. Save every bill, letter, and call note for your file.
How does no‑fault divorce work?
No‑fault means you don’t need to prove wrongdoing to end the marriage. You’ll still address property, support, and parenting time. Prepare a list of accounts, debts, income, and childcare costs. Mediation can settle parts of the case faster and with lower tension.
How is child support estimated?
States use income, parenting time, health costs, and childcare to set a number. Use a calculator for a rough idea, then confirm with a lawyer. Keep pay stubs, tax returns, and insurance premiums handy. Save messages about schedules to support your numbers.
What is mediation and should I try it?
Mediation is a meeting with a neutral person who helps you reach a deal. It’s private and often faster than court. Prepare a simple list of goals and deal‑breakers. Draft sample terms so you can move quickly if progress is made during the session.
Can I move out with the kids before court orders?
Moves without an order can backfire. Judges focus on stability and the child’s best interests. If safety is an issue, seek help and keep records. Ask a lawyer about temporary orders. Document visits and costs so the court sees a clear, steady plan.
What should I do after a DUI arrest?
Write down what happened, including times and locations. Request your hearing on time. Ask about license options and ignition devices. Do not miss court dates. Meet a lawyer as soon as you can. Bring the ticket, test info, and any paperwork you received.
Should I talk to police without a lawyer?
You can confirm your name and basic ID. Beyond that, ask for a lawyer and stay polite. Do not guess or fill gaps. Simple phrases help: “I want a lawyer.” “I choose to remain silent.” Write down times and names after the conversation ends.
Can I clear my record?
Some states allow expungement or sealing for certain cases after a waiting period. You’ll need case numbers and final dispositions. Check your state’s court site and ask a lawyer about eligibility. Clearing records can help with jobs and housing if you qualify.
What proof do I need for a marriage green card?
Write down what happened, including times and locations. Request your hearing on time. Ask about license options and ignition devices. Do not miss court dates. Meet a lawyer as soon as you can. Bring the ticket, test info, and any paperwork you received.
How long does a work permit (EAD) take?
Timing changes by category and workload. Many see months, not weeks. Track your receipt number online. If delays are long and you qualify, ask about an expedite with proof of need. Keep copies of receipts, biometrics notices, and every address change you file.
Can I travel while my immigration case is pending?
Travel can harm some cases unless you have the right document, like Advance Parole. Leaving without it may cancel your application. Ask a lawyer before you book. Keep copies of filings, notices, and approvals in your travel folder to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Will bankruptcy erase all my debt?
Not all debts go away. Student loans, support, some taxes, and recent luxury charges can remain. List every creditor and amount. A means test helps decide between Chapter 7 and 13. Speak to a lawyer to pick the right chapter for your budget and goals.
Will I lose my car if I file bankruptcy?
Many people keep a car using exemptions or by staying current on payments. In Chapter 7, equity limits matter. In Chapter 13, you may restructure payments. Write down loan details and value before you file. A short consult helps you choose the safer approach.
What happens to my credit after bankruptcy?
Scores often dip, then can improve with on‑time payments and low balances. Get a free report three months after discharge to spot errors. Use one secured card and pay in full monthly. Keep older accounts open if possible. Track progress every quarter.
When should I report a work injury?
Report it as soon as you can, in writing if possible. Short deadlines apply in many states. See the approved doctor list if your state uses one. Keep a log of pain, limits, and missed hours. Save every medical note and mileage for visits.
Do I have to go to the company doctor?
Some states let the employer pick the first doctor; others give you a list or let you choose. Ask for the rule in writing. You can often change providers later. Keep copies of referrals, restrictions, and work notes to avoid payroll or scheduling issues.
What is an IME and how do I prepare?
An IME is a one‑time exam paid by the insurer. Bring a friend if allowed. Be honest and brief. Do not exaggerate or downplay pain. Note the start and end times. Write a summary right after. Share concerns with your lawyer if something felt off.
What is a low‑ball insurance offer and how do I reply?
A low offer ignores medical care, missed work, or future costs. Ask for a written breakdown. Send a short counter with records and a fair range. Set a reply date. Keep the tone calm. Save emails and letters so your file tells a clear story.
How do I appeal a claim denial?
Read the denial letter and the policy section cited. Fix missing documents, then send a short appeal with records. Ask for written reasons and timelines. Track delivery. If nothing moves, escalate to a supervisor or your state insurance department and keep copies.
Where can I complain about an insurance company?
Your state’s insurance department handles complaints. We list links on pages that cover appeals and denials. Have your policy number, claim number, dates, and copies ready. Keep your notes short and clear. You should also continue talking with the carrier while the review is pending.
