2. Lawyers You and the Law 9/22/06

3. Most lawyers… Do not go to court Give advice, draft legal opinions, negotiate settlements

4. Trial Lawyers Lawyers who do go to court Litigators

5. When do you need a lawyer? Preventative – key advice Other situations: –Buying/selling home –Organizing a business

6. –Divorce or adoption –Will –Signing a large contract –Accidents –Criminal charges –Victims of discrimination

7. Other Sources of Advice… –Doctors –Teachers, –Clergy –Accountants –Relatives

8. If in doubt… Call the Bar Asociation - Montgomery Bar Association – 610-279-9660

9. How to find a lawyer ReferralYellow Pages Legal directory Martindale-Hubble Law Directory Advertisements

10. What if you can’t pay? Civil Case – Legal Aid – 610-275-5400 Criminal Case – Public Defender – 610-278-3295

11. Fees Hourly – divorce, will, house settlement, criminal Contingency – injury case, typically 20-40%

12. Retainer as down payment – especially in criminal cases, divorce case Client usually charged court costs and legal expenses – filing fees, postage, phone, copying fees Fee agreement frequently written

13. Relationship with Lawyer She advises, you decide Give him full information Lawyer must act ethically Lawyers who act unethically can be sued or disbarred