by Lorenza

Created on: March 12, 2009

A large majority of people have no idea what to do in the case of a lawsuit or criminal charges being filed against them. They often think they absolutely must get some legal advice, but there is one thing they don't know about the lawyers out there who offer their services.

Lawyers are just people who took specified courses at a college or university and then passed the extensive Bar examination for the particular state in which they have chosen to practice. Having initials after your name doesn't mean you know everything, and any lawyer you hire to take your case will have to do some intensive reading of case law and code books in order to find the appropriate way to help you with your situation. There are often reasons why not getting a lawyer is the best avenue to take, and the least expensive. Too many people put their fate in the hands of lawyers, paying ridiculous sums of money thinking that this person with a Juris Doctorate after his or her name is truly more educated and aware of how to proceed in any given situation. This is simply not true.

The most important piece of do-it-youself legal advice is to educate yourself. Legal information on any subject is available to everyone, either on the internet or at a library. State laws and municipal codes are yours for the asking, and once you have done all the reading and investigation of your case, you will be able to make a more informed decision.

Generally, civil matters such as bankuptcy or foreclosure can be handled without a lawyer, as well as divorce and name changes. There is just the filing of certain papers and making an appearance in court. People who are being foreclosed on can even stop a foreclosure if they can show the judge that they deserve another chance to make things right with their lender.

When it comes to criminal matters, anyone charged with a capital crime has the right to a lawyer, but it has been documented that some Defendants have represented themselves in capital cases. However, those who have taken on their own cases have usually not been able to refute the evidence presented by the prosecution, and most have been found guilty. The most important part of being involved in a legal case is understanding which laws govern the issue at hand, whether it is civil or criminal. In a criminal case, you are innocent until the other side convinces the judge or jury of your total and complete guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Whoever wins in a civil matter is the one with the most evidence in his or her favor. Understanding what the evidence is and how it is presented is of extreme importance, and understanding your rights in a trial is key to your success, whether you are represented by counsel or not.

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