Applying for Jobs with a Criminal Record: Know Your Rights
Self Representation Or Retain An Attorney? What You Should Know About Handling Your Family Law Needs
Michelle Garrett
If you live in a large city, there is likely a Self Help Legal Center available to you. Many smaller cities and most counties also have a similar organization set up to help people who wish to handle family law matters without the assistance of an attorney. It is entirely possible to represent yourself in simple matters such as an uncontested divorce or the drafting of a will or power of attorney. However, even though self-representation is possible, it is not always the best choice. If you are undecided about hiring an attorney to help you with your family law needs, the following information will help you make the right choice for you and your family.
Education and Expertise
When you retain an attorney to assist you, you are getting a professional that has at least eight years of intense education in all aspects of the law. Family law attorneys have taken classes that focus on all aspects of family law. Your attorney has passed a very stringent bar exam to be admitted to practice law in your locale. In addition, your attorney likely has many years of experience handling cases similar to yours. As a layman, you don't have this in-depth education and experience, and the legal waters may be difficult for you to navigate. You may not achieve the favorable outcome that an attorney can obtain for you.
Cost
It is much cheaper to represent yourself in legal matters - at least when you count the upfront costs. Generally, you will only be responsible for the court filing fees. This can save you thousands, depending upon the rates attorneys in your area charge. However, you may spend more money representing yourself. You may not get the same favorable outcome that an attorney would achieve for you. This can end up costing you thousands of dollars that you didn't expect. Retaining an attorney can be a much better deal than going it alone.
Convenience
When you represent yourself, you are going to spend many hours researching the proper court filing procedures for your particular issue. When you file paperwork with the court, there are many requirements that must be complied with. If you don't bring the right amount of copies of your documents, the right amount of cash, or you forget some other small detail, you will be turned away at the clerk's office to try again after you complete the requirements. An attorney will take care of everything and relieve you of this burden.
Contact legal professionals like Franklin & Rapp for more help.
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I'll be up front: I have a criminal record. As someone who's spent lots--and lots--of time looking for a job in my life, I've gotten used to being up front with this fact. It's difficult to get hired with this on my record, and frankly, it never gets less scary to have to tell an interviewer about it. But that doesn't mean I'm unemployable. I'm a hard worker who can bring a lot to any company. And I also know what an employer needs to do for me. I know my rights. There's no federal law protecting me from discrimination due to my record, but there are plenty of state laws that make it a little easier for me. If you're looking for a job and you have a criminal record, read through this information. Protect yourself during a job search. Know your rights.