<< Pittsburgh Lawyers
How and When to Choose an Attorney
Advice from the Allegheny County Bar Association
Many people believe they need an attorney's services only to solve a problem or to get out of a difficult situation. But the best time to see an attorney is often before you find yourself in legal trouble. Eliminating potential problems and taking preventive action can save you time, money and worry. Here are some circumstances that may require professional legal assistance:
- Buying or selling real estate
- Signing a lease or contract with major financial provisions
- Marriage, divorce or adoption
- When a lawsuit is brought against you, or you want to bring a lawsuit
- If you are arrested or charged with a crime
- Starting a business
- Planning for the distribution of your property upon your death, including a will
- Preparing a living will
- When you have been injured, either on the job or in an accident, or as result of another person's negligence, or because of a defective or unsafe product
There are many sources that you can use to locate and select an attorney. See the Online Legal Resource Guide and the list below.
- Legal directories, such as the Martindale-Hubble Law Directory, can be found in many public libraries. Such directories contain biographical information on attorneys in each state.
- Recommendations from friends, family members and co-workers can be helpful, particularly if they have had a legal question similar to yours.
- The Lawyer Referral Service, operated by the Allegheny County Bar Association. You will be referred to an attorney who can help you, and you will receive a 30-minute consultation for about $30. Then you can decide if you want to retain the lawyer. Call 412/261-5555.
- Neighborhood Legal Services Association offers free legal assistance, in civil matters only, to individuals who meet federal poverty guidelines. Call 412/255-6700.
- The Public Defenders Office, funded by Allegheny County, offers free legal assistance in criminal matters only to individuals who meet certain income guidelines.
- The Pro Bono Center, sponsored by the Allegheny County Bar Association, provides attorneys to help meet the needs of individuals in Allegheny County who meet certain income guidelines. Call 412/402-6677.
Source: The Allegheny County Bar Association. For more information go to www.acba.org.