When you employ an attorney, it’s usually a legal battle to protect yourself from a former spouse draining your finances. It could also be a former business partner or adversary who wants to sue you. But what do you do if you need a lawyer to defend your assets but can’t afford to hire one?
If you cannot afford legal representation in a criminal case, the court will assign one for you. To obtain legal counsel in a civil matter, which is a disagreement between two private parties, you must be resourceful.
Depending on your circumstances, you can use various techniques to obtain free or low-cost legal help. Continue reading to learn more about each option.
Get in Contact With Your City Courthouse
Parties who have to fill out their own uncontested divorce paperwork might get free help from some courts. Still, if you don’t have a lawyer and are being hauled to court for something other than a divorce, a reasonable approach would be to phone the courtroom.
You should simply ask the court what they recommend. You might be surprised about how much aid you can get. After all, you aren’t going to be the only individual who has been unable to afford legal representation.
Make Use of Free Consultations
Some lawyers may provide free consultations through videoconferences or over the phone. Even if it’s only a 15-minute conversation, you could acquire enough information to have a clearer idea of the legal quagmire you’re about to enter.
You might also be able to receive some recommendations for people who can assist you at a low cost. They might even be able to recommend someone who will represent you for free if you can’t afford a lawyer.
Look Into Legal Aid Societies
A legal aid society is a non-profit institution that provides free legal assistance to low-income persons in nearly every region of the country. While this is a worthwhile endeavor, the difficulty for many families is that the person or couple earns too much money to be eligible for assistance.
Even if you have a modest income, you may not be eligible for legal assistance. Yet, it’s worth looking into different legal aid societies as you might fit their criteria.
Inquire at Law Schools
You may also hire an attorney that’s still studying to consult with you. Several law schools include pro bono programs where students can provide free legal assistance to those in need.
If your town has a university with a law department, you might inquire there. Or you could look further afield.
Get a Loan for Settlement
To cope with the stress of the court struggle, you could consider taking out a loan for settlement.
Loans for settlement are a form of advance based on the likelihood of a pending civil lawsuit. Upon receiving your application, the lender will assess the merits of your case and calculate your prospects of success. They’ll also determine the chances of a settlement and the exact amount you’ll get.
Once you get a judgment or a settlement, the lender will only ask you to make payments. After settling the litigation costs and legal fees, they will deduct their portion from your payout.
Fund Your Legal Battle
As you can now see, there are many ways in which you could fund your legal battle. One way or another, you should be able to get the help you need and move on with your life after a legal settlement.
Many thanks for stopping, and good luck! Also, please check out our blog for more helpful tips and advice.