A brief guide to Scottsdale law firms
Many different legal situations can lead someone to consider retaining an attorney to represent them. Scottsdale law firms vary widely in their size and the specialized services they offer. While no two cases are the same, here are some general guidelines to follow if you are planning on finding an attorney.
The structure of Scottsdale law firms
Any attorney who does practice law by themselves as a “solo practitioner” is part of a larger business. Scottsdale law firms are owned by attorneys known as “partners,” who all have a share of the business and divide the profits after paying their salaried employees. The most important staff members are “associates,” who are lawyers who work for a fixed salary.
Most Scottsdale law firms employ two types of attorneys:
• Transactional lawyers prepare and review paperwork. They do not appear in court.
• Litigation lawyers argue on behalf of clients in the courtroom.
These categories describe the kind of work Scottsdale law firm attorneys do regardless of their specialized area of practice.
Preventive litigation
If you are the owner of a large business, you may want to consider retaining the services of a transactional lawyer on a routine basis. By reviewing all documents and making sure a workplace is compliance with all applicable laws, Scottsdale law firms give companies the protection of “preventive litigation.” Ensuring that no aspect of a business’ operation is in violation of the law can help avoid criminal or civil charges.
Anyone who is involved in a real estate transaction can benefit from having a contract reviewed by a Scottsdale law firm. Purchasing or leasing property often imposes financial obligations that must be honored. An attorney can ensure a contract gives both parties precisely what they have agreed to.
Criminal law
Criminal charges can result in a severe financial penalty or jail time. Because of their seriousness, any defendant charged with an offense by the police or a government agency is entitled to legal counsel at all times. If you cannot afford the services of a Scottsdale law firm, a judge will appoint an attorney to represent you for free. This lawyer will be present during all stages of the legal process:
• The first courtroom appearance is an arraignment hearing. At this time, the prosecution will formally present the charges against you. If you are offered a plea bargain, a Scottsdale law firm attorney can help you decide whether this is in your best interests, as well as arguing that any bail set should be lessened.
• Should you enter a plea of “not guilty,” a date will be scheduled for a court trial. Scottsdale law firms will prepare a defense, as well as exchanging all evidence with the prosecution. If any of the charges against you on based on evidence that was acquired in a way that involved legal or procedural errors, your case may be dismissed.
• In many cases, Scottsdale law firms will attempt to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution. This can be submitted to a judge for approval at any time before a verdict is returned.
• In the courtroom, an attorney will make the strongest possible case on your behalf.
• If you are found guilty, a lawyer will be present at your sentencing hearing to argue for leniency.
No one of sound mental health is required to make use of legal representation. While you are allowed to represent yourself or disregard the advice of a Scottsdale law firm, it is important to at least consult with an attorney before making any decisions about how to defend yourself.
Civil law
Litigation between two private parties is generally pursued with the intent of receiving financial compensation for such issues as:
• Violation of a landlord-tenant contract
• Underpayment of wages
• Personal injury caused by another person or by a defective product
In nearly all cases, civil litigation will be resolved by Scottsdale law firms representing both parties before the scheduled court date. Extensive negotiations will be undertaken for the purpose of crafting a mutually acceptable financial settlement agreement.
Victims of domestic abuse are required to file a complaint with the public prosecutor’s office. If they do not decide to prosecute, a Scottsdale law firm can help the victim obtain a restraining order or financial compensation in court.
Divorce law
If two spouses agree to divorce, they may be able to cooperate on drafting a written separation agreement detailing how they plan to handle such issues as:
• Alimony payments
• Division of mutually owned property
• Child custody arrangements
• Visitation rights
• Child support payments
Creating a legally binding agreement does not require the assistance of a Scottsdale law firm. However, if two spouses cannot come to terms on their own, they may decide to seek out a neutral third party who can mediate their discussions. This mediator may be a non-attorney specialist in the field or a member of a Scottsdale law firm. If negotiations fail and one or both spouses decide to obtain private legal representation for their family court appearance, this lawyer may not have performed any mediation.
Finding a trustworthy Scottsdale law firm
When you are faced with the necessity of hiring an attorney to represent you, do not rush into a professional relationship. After deciding exactly what kind of assistance you need and what you can afford to pay, ask friends, family members and business associates to refer you to any Scottsdale law firms with specialized experience they have successfully worked with.
You may need to meet with several attorneys before finding someone you feel is trustworthy and competent. Make the most out of initial consultations at all Scottsdale law firms by arriving with all documents that will be relevant to your case. Answer any questions a lawyer has thoroughly, as well as asking them about their background, specialized experience and their firm’s resources. Be sure to obtain a detailed, written estimate of all expenses you can expect to incur throughout the legal process.
