Guide to Finding Georgia Lawyer

Where do I find a lawyer in Georgia?

Finding a lawyer in Georgia can be difficult, especially if one is not familiar with the jurisdiction. There are a number of ways to find a Georgia lawyer, some more reliable than others. It is important to retain the services of a Georgia lawyer due to the differences in state laws and the ways by which this will affect civil and criminal matters. A Georgia lawyer is your best bet at a favorable outcome when dealing with legal matters in Georgia.

How do laws vary from state-to-state?

Gun control laws are an excellent example of how legislation varies by location. For example, no permit, at all, is required to purchase a gun in Georgia. There are no laws regulating assault rifles and no licenses are required for gun ownership. For open carry of a gun outside of one’s property a Georgia Weapons License or equivalent is required. Unlike many other states, local governments may not impose gun control laws. Any local law that preempts Georgia gun laws can be challenged in court and withdrawn. Georgia lawyers are familiar with these local laws and can help you if you find yourself in trouble with the law due to state or local laws and have your cases tried in that jurisdiction. Concealed carry and other licenses do not always transfer from state to state unless that state has a reciprocity agreement. Georgia recognizes all permits from state that recognize Georgia’s permits. Georgia lawyers are critical in cases where the law varies from state to state.

Why would I need a Georgia lawyer?

As laws vary from state to state, a person that is not sure of the legality of their actions may want to consult a local lawyer. For instance, in difficult custody cases, if the spouse with the child residing in Georgia leaves the state, or a person residing out of state enters Georgia, the other spouse may want to consult with a Minnesota lawyer specializing in family law to determine his or her rights and the custodial rights to the child under Georgia law.

What are organizations of Georgia lawyers?

The State Bar of Georgia is a mandatory governing body for lawyers with a membership of roughly 34,000 active members in good standing. This organization may not refer clients to lawyers, but maintains a voluntary directory for interested members.

This organization also works for the benefit of its members by providing resource and guidance for novice Minnesota lawyers. The Lawyer’s Assistance Program (LAP) helps at risk lawyers dealing with personal and professional problems get help to deal with addictions and stress.

To maintain the credibility of their members, the State Bar of Georgia maintains an alternate dispute resolution services to provide legal fee arbitration. Though this, a client is assured that he or she has some recourse if there is some dissatisfaction with a Georgia lawyer’s service or fees. As the Georgia Bar membership is mandatory, all lawyers are disciplined for unprofessional behaviors are listed, to inform the public of wrongdoing.

The fees for membership are $413 for active members and $294 for inaction members. There are additional section dues for specialist lawyers. These specializations include areas of law such as environmental, military, nonprofit and business, each with variable fees. There are a number of mandatory assessments, such as a mandatory fee to the Clients’ Security Fund to help victims of lawyer malpractice. There is also a suggested fee of $250 to support the Georgia Legal Services program for needy Georgia residents. Georgia Bar Membership provides a number of perks for members in addition to valuable services to improve its member’s practices and professionalism.

How do I know my Georgia lawyer is legitimate?

If you cannot find your attorney among the State Bar Association directory, you should be wary. The lawyer may not be posted in the directory due to privacy issues, but this may also mean that the person offering legal services is not a lawyer. If the attorney does not have evidence admission to the state bar, you should examine his or her credentials. Ensure that the law degree is from an accredited law school and that the Georgia lawyer has evidence of admission to the state bar. If the lawyer does not produce these things, then this is likely not an individual that should be dispensing legal advice.

What are the typical rates of a Georgia lawyer?

It is difficult to predict precise rates for seeking legal advice from a Georgia lawyer. As with all legal services, considerations are usually made for the client’s income and the nature of the case. A typical Georgia lawyer will offer a number of alternate arrangements and payment options that can include working on contingency for accident and negligence cases. For these cases, the lawyer can claim a percentage or lump sum of a settlement won for a client. Some clients may find this preferable to retaining or paying a lawyer by the hour. Additionally, you may be able to receive legal services from Georgia lawyers unbundled or in flat fees. In that way, you pay only for the services you need.

Lawyers in general prefer not to advertise non-flat fees, lest their estimate prove insufficient for lengthy court cases and proceedings. However, most Georgia lawyers will offer free consultations where you will be able to express your concerns about fees and the estimate of how much you can pay and when. There are enough Georgia lawyers and law firms that you can choose from, so feel free to take as many consultations as possible. Be sure to ask about ancillary fees and fees for using office staff and resources. Some law offices will even charge for incoming phone calls. Be sure to have all fees in writing. When dealing with unreasonable or hidden fees from a Georgia lawyer, you may need to contact the local bar association to enter fee dispute resolution.

What are questions to ask Georgia lawyers?

How does my case relate to Georgia state and local laws?

What are your fees and do you have alternate payment plans?

Can I please have all fees in writing?

Are you an active member, in good standing, of the State Bar of Georgia?

Why are you not listed in the directory?

What roles do you play as a member?

What are my chances of winning a settlement or at trial?

Can you refer me to another lawyer if you are unable to take my case?