Legal Advice: Protecting Your Rights

1. When to Seek Legal Help

Consult an attorney if you face:

• ✅ Criminal Charges (arrest, fines, or jail risk)
• ✅ Major Financial Decisions (contracts over $10K, business disputes)
• ✅ Family Law Issues (divorce, child custody, adoption)
• ✅ Injury Claims (workplace accidents, medical malpractice)
• ✅ Housing Problems (eviction, discrimination, deed disputes)

🚨 Emergency Situations: Call a lawyer immediately if:

• Police question you as a suspect
• You receive a court summons
• Your rights are being violated (e.g., workplace harassment)

2. Finding Affordable Legal Help

Option	Best For	Cost Range
Pro Bono Clinics	Low-income individuals	Free
Legal Aid Societies	Tenants, domestic violence cases	Free/low-cost
Contingency Lawyers	Injury/accident claims	Paid only if you win
Online Services	Wills, basic contracts	$50–$500

📌 Tip: State bar associations offer referral services for verified attorneys.

3. Your Rights During Police Interactions

• You can remain silent (say: “I invoke my Fifth Amendment right”)
• Refuse searches without a warrant (say: “I do not consent to a search”)
• Request a lawyer before answering questions (“I want an attorney”)

⚠️ Never:

• ✖️ Lie to officers
• ✖️ Physically resist
• ✖️ Sign documents without legal review

4. Documenting Evidence

Keep records for legal disputes:

• Timeline of key events with dates
• Photos/Videos of injuries, property damage
• Witness statements (names + contact info)
• All communications (save emails/texts)

🔐 Storage: Use cloud backups (e.g., Google Drive) to prevent loss.

5. Common Legal Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Verbal Agreements – Always get contracts in writing.
• ❌ Ignoring Court Deadlines – Missing filings can forfeit your case.
• ❌ Posting About Your Case Online – Social media posts can be used against you.
• ❌ Self-Representation in Complex Cases – Tax/immigration laws require expertise.

6. Free Legal Resources

• USA.gov/legal-aid – National directory
• LawHelp.org – State-specific guidance
• Nolo.com – DIY legal forms and books

Need help with a specific issue? Describe your situation for tailored advice!