Some people facing a legal situation consider representing themselves rather than hiring legal counsel.
Since everyone is guaranteed this right, it can be tempting to give it a try. After all, attorneys are expensive and it could save you thousands of dollars.
There are, however, some good reasons to think twice before taking this route for your personal business. After all, its important to protect your investment properly.
#1. It’s extremely time-consuming
If you are going to represent yourself, be prepared to spend many hours studying the law. The only chance you have to win your case is to become something of an expert in whatever area of law it involves. This can be difficult for anyone with responsibilities such as a job or family.
#2. It may not save you money
The main reason people seek to represent themselves is to save money. However, if you aren’t qualified to represent your small business, there’s a good chance you will lose your case. This can result in having to pay an expensive judgment or having to hire an attorney in the future to appeal the case.
#3. You could make a fatal mistake
The legal system is quite complex. Not only can you make many minor mistakes, you could unwittingly do something that undermines your entire case. This is something experienced legal counsel is unlikely to do.
#4.Your adversary will have an attorney in his corner
Chances are, your opposition in court will be represented by a experienced attorney. This is the equivalent of a novice boxer getting into the ring with a seasoned professional. The odds will be highly stacked against you.
#5. It’s hard for you to be objective
Lawyers are trained to think logically and not let their emotions cloud their reasoning. When you represent yourself, this can be very difficult. You are, therefore, likely to get angry or stressed out in court and make a mistake that could cost you the case.
#6. You risk incurring the judge’s wrath
Judges are busy and have limited patience for business owners who aren’t familiar with the rules of the court and legal terminology. The last thing you want to do is annoy the judge who is presiding over your case. Representing yourself increases the chances that this will happen.
There are good reasons why attorneys study their profession for many years. Firms such as Gittens & Associates (lawyers in Newfoundland) and other firms all over pride themselves on continuing the education of their associates and partners.
Learning the ins and outs of the legal system takes years. When you represent yourself, you are at a distinct disadvantage. Having a qualified attorney greatly improves your chances of success in court.
Image credit here.
Erika Remmington
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