Are you currently experiencing either a legal problem or trying to achieve something that involves a legal step? It's crucial you speak to a lawyer rather than going DIY or relying on what a friend of a friend's lawyer said. Read on to learn why. 

* 7 min read *

Being an adult has its many perks. You’ll have independence, a wide array of choices, and more opportunities for growth and adventure. However, in the course of your journey, you will be faced with a few challenges which may lead to legal issues- a lawsuit, a divorce, an accident or an unfair treatment in the workplace. 

In fact, 50 out of 100 Australians encounter a legal problem every year. While it is tempting to face these things on your own, it is always the best decision to find a lawyer who’ll help you navigate your way.

Based on a national study, on people with moderate to severe legal problems, 40% tried to solve their problems without seeking legal advice. Out of those who have gone the DIY route, only 6% were satisfied with the outcome. A huge percentage did not get the results they wanted and it is likely that an even bigger percentage gave up on resolving their issue because it all seemed so hard. 

It is also important to note that problems aren’t the only situation that needs legal guidance. Good legal advice is also crucial for getting what you need to be done effectively and with maximum protection of your rights. Such as when starting a business, buying real estate, or getting into an employment contract.

If you are currently experiencing either a problem or trying to achieve something, read on to know why a lawyer consultation is the best next step for you.

1. To Hold Someone Accountable if Things Go Awry

Life is hard. You have to take responsibility for many decisions. For decisions that count, get an expert to make the decision and hold them accountable so if anything goes wrong, it’s not you that’s exposed.

Nothing beats the security of having someone accountable in case your lawyer’s advice turns out to be wrong. While we are certainly not recommending it, it would be good to know that you can sue your lawyer for breach of confidentiality, duty, or privacy. 

When your expectations aren’t met or your case hasn’t been resolved the way due to your lawyer’s negligence, you may file for a professional negligence claim. If proven,  you can be awarded for financial loss, expenses incurred to resolve the problem, legal costs, and other indirect expenses - all covered by their professional indemnity insurance.

In hiring a lawyer, there is nothing to lose. You have the protection of legal advice while having a fallback if that advice fails.

2. To Achieve Your Desired Outcome 

If you’re trying to do something important, it’s worth investing in a lawyer.  They can ensure that you actually achieve your goals while receiving the maximum benefits at minimum risks to you. 

For example, if you want to protect your assets and ensure the welfare of your family in case something happens to you, get a Will drafted by a lawyer. A lawyer can ensure that your Will is valid and that it respects all your wishes.

Another example is purchasing a house. While it is true that you can buy real estate without the help of a lawyer, there are several house-buying “traps” that you might get yourself into if left unguided. A lawyer can scrutinize your contract before settlement. They will make sure that there are no hidden or onerous terms, unfair conditions, or sneaky clauses that may put your dream home in jeopardy.

Also, an example would be if you plan to invest in a business, your lawyer can ensure that the shareholder’s agreement will have the company and your best interests in mind. Having a lawyer advise you on your legal rights and obligations in case of disputes between shareholders will provide you with the outcome that you have envisaged and not a deadlock or something worse down the track.

Having legal expertise to back you up during these crucial times will ensure that you achieve your desired outcome. 

3. To Gain the Full Benefit of Your Entitlements 

Sometimes, through no fault of your own, bad things happen.  Unfortunate events such as slipping and getting hurt inside a grocery store or not getting a well-deserved promotion because of discrimination.  Another example could be losing a huge amount of money because someone gave you negligent financial advice. 

These events are devastating and can change your life in the blink of an eye. You may lose your livelihood, your quality of life may be diminished, and your dreams may seem harder to reach. The best thing to do is dust yourself off and get legal help. 

Many times you are not even aware that you even have a legal entitlement and compensation. That’s where getting legal advice is so important. Don’t miss out on what you may be entitled to just because you don’t know or finding a lawyer seems expensive (because it’s not).

Knowing that you have exercised your rights will allow you to get back on your feet with regained strength, financial security, and renewed confidence.

4. To Avoid a Big Penalty  

Did you know that the penalty per breach of the Australian Consumer Law can be $10,000,000 for corporations and $500,000 for individuals? What about the penalty for tax fraud? Did you know that it can land you in jail? It is considered a serious criminal offence that has a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment. 

It’s easy to make an excuse that lawyers are too expensive, but in many cases, one risk of not getting your legal obligations right can be even more costly. 

Grow your empire without worrying about a financial crisis due to penalties when you have legal guidance. You won’t have to worry about having your reputation on the line and being in the news for all the wrong reasons. 

5. To Simplify Your Circumstances 

Dealing with tough circumstances which lead to legal issues can be exhausting. It can put a toll on your physical and emotional well-being. The full range of emotions from trying to overcome your legal hurdles alone may result in poor decisions or further complications. 

It would be beneficial to find a lawyer who can lead you in the right direction, purely based on the facts. Get clear, actionable options to solve your issue. You’ll discover how much better it feels to be back in the driver’s seat. 

Your lawyer will clarify the legal implications and can provide you with the best approach. You may even realize that your problem isn’t so bad after all. 

6. To Get an Agreement, Decision or Contract that Will Hold Up in Court 

You can get almost anything you want from the internet, and that includes contracts and other legal documents. With the accessibility of online DIY Wills, Contracts, and other legal forms, it may be tempting to just click, fill up, and pay. While this is convenient, doing these legal documents may lead to bigger problems in the future. 

Our laws of intestacy are complex, not to mention contract laws. Your documents may read as though they will achieve your outcome but only an expert lawyer can consider these laws and ensure that they don’t operate and cause an unintended consequence. 

You will have peace of mind knowing that whatever happens you are backed by a legally binding contract or agreement that can protect you in case you go to court. 

7. To Save Money   

It’s about time to debunk the myth that legal advice is always expensive. Having the chance to get legal answers fast can save you from making wrong and often expensive decisions. 

You can save money in the long run if you have all your bases covered. The peace of mind it brings will be priceless. A lawyer can also guide you through agreements so you can be assured that they are properly executed. They carefully pore through details so you can avoid getting fines, penalties, or other financial setbacks caused by legal breaches.

At Essia Law, we provide competitive fixed fees.

8.To Know Your Options and Pick the Best One for You 

The average person makes about 35,000 conscious decisions per day. And when you are a leader of an organisation or a business owner, you are faced with choices that may affect the lives of other people. Having a lawyer to present you with the best options will give you one less thing to worry about. 

You can charter the right course for you or your business when you are equipped with the right options, how much they cost, and all the risks involved. A lawyer can even lay out options you never knew existed which can be a game-changer for your business.

9. To Be Represented

If you are in the middle of a legal issue and the other party has already hired a lawyer, you should also get legal advice as soon as possible. Do not let the other party have the upper hand by leaving your fate to the DIY route. It’s like going into war without ammunition. 

Having a lawyer by your side will level the playing field. You are assured that your rights will be upheld and that you won’t get into an unfair agreement. 

Conclusion

Speaking to a lawyer is often an understated remedy for people’s problems. Some ignore their issues until it’s too late for a solution. Some people try to sort their legal issues on their own. More often than not, they achieve poor outcomes such as exposing themselves to huge financial, legal, and reputational setbacks. 

Some find it all too hard and don’t bother, thus missing out on large sums that could be owed to them. The reasons above show that getting legal advice is all worth it. Life is too short to worry about things beyond your control and scope of expertise. 

Getting professional legal help will be the best decision you can make to protect your relationships, career, and businesses that you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

If you have any questions, we’re here to help every step of the way. Contact us today and get the legal advice you deserve.