You may need a lawyer if… You have a complicated case or a case that may become complicated (but keep in mind you may not always realize a case is or could be complicated without talking to a lawyer). You want legal advice.
Q. How do I find the right lawyer?
Certified lawyer referral services or your local bar association
Table of Contents
- Going to LawhelpCalifornia.org to find more information on a State Bar-certified lawyer referral service;
- Calling the State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Services Directory at 1-866-442-2529 (toll free in California) or 1-415-538-2250 (from outside California); or.
Q. How do you know if a lawyer is good or not?
5 Signs of a Good Lawyer
- Cautiously Optimistic. Most cases aren’t slam-dunks, and it is important that your lawyer doesn’t make promises regarding the outcome of your case and should not be overconfident no matter how seasoned he or she is.
- Great Listener.
- Objective.
- Honest About Fees Upfront.
- Trust Your Gut.
Q. Is hiring a lawyer worth it?
If you’re charged with a crime If you can’t afford a lawyer, a public defender will usually be appointed to you. However, it is in your best interest to retain a lawyer — and a good one, if possible. You don’t want to end up in jail long-term, and hiring a lawyer might also help you avoid paying a serious fine.
Q. Can you drop a case against someone?
First, it’s important to understand that criminal charges are not filed in court by “victims.” The government files criminal cases, including assault or domestic violence charges. Second, a person cannot drop a criminal court case against someone. This doesn’t mean you cannot get the charges dropped.
Q. What is the difference between dropped and dismissed?
When a case is “dropped,” it means that the prosecutor has decided to cancel the charges against you. When a case is “dismissed,” it means that the judge found legal errors with the charge and, as a matter of law, must stop the charges against you.
Q. Can you sue after charges are dropped?
If a prosecutor files such a case and the charges are dismissed, the defendant can sue for malicious prosecution and seek financial damages. The law that allows a malicious prosecution suit is aimed at preventing and addressing abuse of the legal process.
Q. What if someone sues me and I have no money?
Even if you do not have the money to pay the debt, always go to court when you are told to go. A creditor or debt collector can win a lawsuit against you even if you are penniless. The lawsuit is not based on whether you can pay—it is based on whether you owe the specific debt amount to that particular plaintiff.
