Life can take unexpected twists and turns.  We can have all sorts of problems.  Some of them are medical problems.  Some of them are accounting problems.  Some of them are family or relationship problems.

And some of them are legal problems.

But we don’t often find many step-by-step guides on how to solve legal problems.  Why is this?  Well, there are a lot of reasons:  not diagnosing the problem, being misled by the media, or not acting fast enough.

I wanted to provide a sequence of steps that will help you get from start to finish with your legal problem, no matter what type of problem that may be.  Remember, we’re dealing in general principles here.

But by adopting the right mindset, you should be able to apply this sequence of steps to your specific situation.

And you will be successful!  

Step 1:  Identify The Problem

I know, I know.  It sounds so simple.  But you would be surprised at how non-simple this really is.

To solve a problem, you must first acknowledge that a problem exists.  And it is human nature to look for ways of avoiding uncomfortable facts.  It’s only natural.  We all do it.  You shouldn’t blame yourself for it.

Here’s a big component of Step 1:  move quickly!  

Delays only cause more stress.  The faster a problem is identified, the better off you will be.  It really is that simple.

But deep down, if you’re honest with yourself, you’ll know that there is a problem out there.  It may be a problem in bankruptcy, criminal defense, family law, workers’ compensation, or any other area of the law.

And deep down, you know there is a problem.  The key thing is to listen to this voice, and act on it.  Why is this so important?

Time, that’s why.

Legal problems are time-sensitive.  This means that things tend to get worse, not better, the longer you procrastinate.  If a problem can be identified and dealt with quickly, you will:

• Preserve all your options.
• Save yourself a lot of money
• Reduce your overall stress
• Preserve your health

It really is that simple.  So, when you sense that a problem exists, take action.  Even if it turns out that you have no problem, at least you’ll sleep better at night.

Step 2:  Find An Attorney

It all sounds so simple.  Except that it usually isn’t.  Why?  Because sometimes, too many choices can make us procrastinate.

You can find an attorney to help you from a variety of venues:  referral from a friend or family, Google searches, Yellow Pages, or whatever.  It doesn’t really matter.

To first find an attorney, you must communicate your problem in a way that is understandable.  What is a good way to do this?

I like this tip:  describe what your goal is.  

By doing this, you avoid getting into unfocused details.  You avoid getting sidetracked. When you first speak to an attorney, you may be excited or nervous.  A great way to focus this energy is by focusing on your goal.

Focusing on what you are trying to accomplish will clarify things for the attorney you are meeting with.  

Your attorney should have extensive experience in the area of law that concerns your problem.

Attorneys who have actually litigated cases over many years know all of the nuanced issues and problems that can come up.  Their experience is part of their being, their personality.  Draw on this experience, and listen to what they have to say.

And believe me, all sorts of things can and will come up.  Don’t even think about trying to solve a legal problem with the court system without an attorney.  You won’t know what you don’t know.  And that will create even bigger problems.

Step 3:  Participate In Your Own Rescue

Remember that it’s your case.  Your attorney is there to help you solve your problem.  When you are actively engaged in your case, communication is improved.  It’s constant, and it is timely.

And this is so, so critical.

Appear for your court dates.  Get the information that your attorney asks for.  Ask questions.

Because your level of participation is a good indication of your concern.  And when you are concerned, you will be able to communicate all those little nuances that don’t really come across otherwise.

Step 4:  Save Your Paperwork

Seems like common sense, doesn’t it?  Well, maybe it is.  But that doesn’t mean that I shouldn’t mention it.

You already know that in today’s world, records are everywhere.  We need them for all sorts of things.  The legal system is all about records and record-keeping.

So, when you get paperwork in your case, treat it with the importance that it deserves.  Save the things that you get from your attorney and from the court system.

You never know when you will need it later.  And we often see situations where people need legal documents even years after their cases have concluded.

So there you have it.  A step-by-step guide on how to solve your legal issue.  You’ll find that if you just apply these basic tips, you will be far ahead of everyone else.

And this is the greatest feeling in the world.

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