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Santa Barbara and Ventura Legal Resources

A quick FAQ to help guide you through the legal maze.

 

While we specialize in Personal Injury, Estate Planning, Real Estate, Business Transactions, General Litigation and Family Law in Santa Barbara County and Ventura County, here are some generally helpful tips that anyone can use. Remember that not all advice fits every situation, and we therefore strongly encourage you to seek the advice of an experienced attorney for information on all your legal questions.

 

Q. Should I have a trust or will?

A. Estate planning is not only for the elderly. Every adult should have an estate plan specifying what should happen to your property when you pass away. While most people prefer not to think too far ahead, death is a reality that is, for most of us, unplanned. It is much better to draw up your own will and testament than to rely on what the law has in store for everyone who did not take the time to do so. If you have a spouse and/or children, it is especially important for you to have a will or trust to ensure they are properly taken care of once you have moved on.

 

Q. When I have a dispute, should I contact an attorney?

A. Act without delay. If you find yourself in a situation wherein you need legal advice, make contacting a skilled, experienced attorney your priority. The sooner you seek legal advice, the easier it will be for your attorney to build a strong case in your favor, whatever the charges or circumstances of your situation. Delay in obtaining legal counsel might lead to some important information being lost or forgotten, or for the other party involved in your dispute to build a stronger case against you. Often times, you also have to allow some time for your attorney to review the case, file paper work and get the proceedings started.

 

Q. How much should I discuss?

A. Be open and honest. Your attorney can only help you insofar as you help him or her understand your case. Keeping details or information from your lawyer not only makes his or her job that much difficult, it is in every case a detriment to your claim or defense. Your lawyer is there to represent you and you therefore need to have enough trust in him or her to divulge everything pertaining to your situation. Remember that their only concern is to ensure you come out of the situation with the best results possible, and as such you should answer honestly and not feel defensive when being questioned.

 

Q. Should I ask questions?

A. Ask questions and make sure you get answers. Your attorney, if skilled, qualified and experienced, should expect you to have many questions about your case, their background, the cost of the proceedings and other aspects of the law. Any lawyer who cannot or will not take the time to answer these questions clearly and openly should not be trusted. You should know exactly what to expect walking in to legal proceedings, from lawyer fees to court procedures. Make sure you are comfortable with your attorney and that they can explain legal lingo to your entire satisfaction before deciding on hiring him or her.