Usually when you hire an attorney, it’s to avoid being soaked financially by an ex-spouse, former business partner or adversary who wants to sue you for all you have. But just as it takes money to make money, sometimes you have to spend money to save your money. But what do you do when you need a lawyer to protect your assets and know that paying for one is out of the question?
Look to legal aid societies. Legal aid societies are nonprofit organizations found in almost every corner of the country that provide free legal services to low-income people. This is certainly worth exploring, but the problem for many households is that the individual or couple makes too much money to qualify for help.
Visit a law school. You could also consider hiring an up-and-coming law student to give you advice. Generally, students in law school clinics are certified to practice law under a faculty member who is a practicing attorney; says Martha Mannix, a clinical associate professor and director of clinical programs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. She adds that student practice rules vary by state, so what you can actually do depends on where you live. Many law school clinics represent low-income individuals too, and so once again, you may make too much money to qualify. But maybe not.
Contact your county or state bar association. Mannix suggests giving this a shot. Once you find someone who will listen to you, ask if there are any ongoing projects for pro bono legal help or reduced-fee help, she suggests.
At Contreras Law Firm we have different options to full representation, check out this video for more information. You can also schedule a free consultation or send a text to 619-648-9652.
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