Whatever your situation, it helps to understand the legal issue you’re facing and what kind of advice you might need.
Spending time understanding what you are dealing with can help you weigh up your options and how much it will cost.
For some legal matters, such as buying a house, you will need a lawyer’s help. For others, you may be able to do some, if not all, of the work yourself.
Our buyer’s guide brings together information to help you make an informed choice when looking for help with a legal problem.
Legal issues for individuals can include:
Applying for probate
The harsh reality is that when someone dies, as well as the emotional challenges, there will inevitably be legal matters to take care of. Much will depend on whether the deceased left a will or died ‘intestate’. In either case, professional support can help executors deal with probate and administer the estate.
Challenging legal costs
Regulated lawyers have to be upfront and clear about their charges. Sometimes, however, the final bill may come in higher than you were expecting. Is it possible to challenge your legal costs?
Claiming asylum
Asylum claims are complicated, and strict timescales and procedures apply. You should check if you qualify for free legal advice if you have little or no money to pay for an adviser.
Coming to the UK
If you do not have a British passport and you want to come to the UK, you will need to apply for permission from the Home Office. You will need to show you meet all of the eligibility requirements under the visa category you are applying under.
Courts system
The courts’ role in the legal system is to resolve a legal issue. But different issues are dealt with by different types of courts – from criminal and family courts to employment and arbitration tribunals. Each type of court also has its own procedures, costs, people and powers. It helps to understand which type of court will handle your legal issue and what the procedure will be.
Debt problems
Debt issues invariably lead to legal issues. If you are facing legal action from creditors or a court judgment being made against you, advice can help you understand your options to resolve your debt.
Emigrating to another country
Every country has its own immigration rules. If you are planning to move to a different country, you will need to check if you would qualify and what kind of visa or permission you will need before you travel.
Employment law & workplace issues
Whether you’re an employee, a worker or an employer, the law affords you certain work-related rights and protections, with numerous ways to resolve workplace disputes.
Family and children law
Family cases are complicated, involving emotional as well as legal and financial considerations. There are many different ways to deal with family legal issues. Understanding all of your options will be critical given what is at stake for you and your family.
Housing matters
Property-related legal issues are commonplace. Whether you rent, own or are buying a house, you are likely to need legal advice during the course of your ownership or tenancy.
Human rights breaches
Every person across the world has basic rights and freedoms, from birth until death. Human rights protect you in your everyday life regardless of who you are, where you live and how you live your life.
Making a claim against someone
The law is there to help if you have been injured and it was someone else’s fault, or if you are owned money. By making a claim against someone, you can get the outcome you deserve, whether that’s compensation, a debt repaid or an apology.
Negligent advice
If you are concerned about the advice or service you have received from a professional adviser, such as a lawyer or an accountant, and you have been unable to resolve the issue with them directly, you can make a formal complaint to their industry Ombudsman and regulator.
Protecting your IP
The law offers several ways to protect your intellectual property and prevent copying or unauthorised use of your ideas. Securing the right type of protection at the right time can help to safeguard your commercial interests from unwanted exploitation.
Use of legal documents
Across all areas of law, legal documents are relied on as records of rights and responsibilities. From wills, contracts and tenancy agreements to licences and permits, every type of legal document has a specific purpose and must be prepared in a specific way to be legally compliant, effective and fit for purpose.
Writing a will
No one wants to think of the worst, but if you die without a will, or without an up to date will, it’s likely your wishes will not be carried out. This can be devastating for your loved ones who will already be suffering the trauma of loss.
You’ve been arrested
If you’ve been arrested, you will be entitled to free legal advice and representation. You can ask for your own solicitor or you can ask for the police station’s duty solicitor for free legal advice.
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Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
