Many professionals will tell you that it’s wise to hire the services of a lawyer, even if you don’t need one at the present moment. You can never be too sure when the services of an attorney will come in handy. There are some unexpected situations that can arise when you’ll be thankful that you had the foresight to be prepared and hired a lawyer.
For instance, you may suddenly be arrested for a crime you allegedly committed. Or you may be injured due to someone else’s actions. Or maybe you want to get a divorce. These are all situations you hope do not happen, but sometimes have no control over. It’s always best to be prepared for the worse. Having a person who understands the ins and outs of the legal system in your case is critical. The most appropriate professionals are attorneys.
However, there comes a time when you can’t afford those legal fees. Some people opt to keep quiet and suffer in silence. Other file cases but along the way fail to sustain all expenses involved. Don’t be like them. You don’t have to lose hope just because you can’t afford a lawyer at present. Below, see what to do when you can’t afford lawyer fees:
1. Consulting community legal clinics
Legal clinics are non-profit legal organizations that provide legal services to low-income communities. So, you need to research and know your local clinic. In case you need its services, you must check on your eligibility first. Clients are either eligible or not based on the level of income and assets they have in their names. These legal clinics won’t serve clients that capable of hiring an attorney.
2. Using court-appointed attorneys
Going to court without a car crash attorney or any other law firm in Kent or elsewhere can be risky. This is because you may lack the kind of experience required to handle court cases. It makes it even worse when your case turns out to be complex and demanding. However, there are cases where courts will provide you with their attorneys free of charge. You may have wanted to hire someone other a public defender, but having them represent you is much better than going to court on your own. That’s like fighting a war without a gun.
3. Visit a law school
Getting an upcoming, young and talented law school student to take on your case can also spare you the trouble of hiring an expensive lawyer. Often, practicing law school students work under an experienced attorney. Much like the other two options above, they also restrict people based on their incomes and resources. Therefore, you may have to prove that you deserve a chance to get free legal services from them.
Otherwise, it’s only justifiable for low-income individuals to consider the options above. This is a great relief for them; way better than having no legal representation at all. However, it’s essential that you hire an own attorney when you can afford to do so. This ensures you get the best possible verdict especially for cases of high stakes.
