Knowing your rights is one of the best tools in your arsenal. It doesn’t matter if you’ve recently filed for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or you’ve been accused of a minor offense — this knowledge will help you when appealing in court, searching for an attorney and navigating the legal system in search of a fair trial. Being caught without the basics can put your future at risk and leave you open for a poor conclusion or a high fine. At worst? A misjudged case. The list below will explore the more common accusations in the United States and, additionally, the resources that would best suit you should these come your way.
Drunk Driving
The definition of drunk driving isn’t limited to alcohol. It involves any attempt to operate a vehicle while under the influence of a motor impairing substance — this can range from store-bought beer to over-the-counter medication to illegal drugs. Drunk driving costs the American economy over $200 million every year, according to MADD, and over 30% of car crash fatalities are caused by drunk driving. It’s thought the average drunk driver has driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs 80 times before their first arrest.
A DUI lawyer focuses on cases involving drunk driving and will help you interrogate witnesses and gather personal information to better present your case in court.
Divorce Rates
The best method for a successful divorce filing is applying for the aid of a divorce lawyer. The United States has seen a notable rise in divorce over the past decade and it’s estimated one divorce happens every 36 seconds. Over 40% of all first marriages will end in a divorce, with this figure exceedingly higher with second divorces and third divorces. A divorce can be a smooth process or a difficult one, particularly if you have children or other family members involved.
If you also need to figure out relocation and child custody, a divorce lawyer can ensure no stone is left unturned on your way to a new life.
Bankruptcy Filings
Who applies for bankruptcy? According to statistics, primarily individuals. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is one of the more common forms, giving those in serious debt the ability to not only eliminate their debt, but start over fresh. Not everyone qualifies for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, however, and this is where your bankruptcy lawyer comes into play. When you have assets to relocate and business investments to let go of, it can mean a world of difference having someone else to help shoulder the burden.
Bankruptcy lawyers will be familiar with local laws as well as national requirements, combining their focus with your unique situation to find the most applicable filing.
How To Choose An Attorney
A little knowledge goes a long way. There’s a reason this saying has so much mileage — it can sometimes be the one thing standing in-between success and failure. No single lawyer is perfect for every task. As such, you should take extra care to find an attorney that focuses in a given area to increase your chances of filing for a smooth divorce, paying off a hefty fine or applying for the ideal bankruptcy chapter. This goes beyond simple common sense. An extra set of eyes that’s seen similar cases can spot things you may take for granted and make the entire ordeal easier to deal with.
From a chapter 7 bankruptcy to a drunk driving fine, there’s an attorney to help.