“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
– Benjamin Franklin
Money is the main reason people don’t get legal help. I get calls from people all the time saying either ‘I spent all my savings on a lawyer and my case isn’t finished yet’ or ‘I can’t afford to hire a lawyer’. What I find truly alarming is when people who don’t have much in the way of income or property spend what money they do have fighting about it. Spending money wisely is the key.
I have come to see that those who represent themselves in dealing with their family law matters come out of the process (whether negotiation, mediation, litigation) far more knowledgeable about the issues, the law, and the process. It makes sense because the person who is self-represented is the one making the arguments, explaining why their proposal makes the most sense, preparing the documents, doing the talking for themselves.
Becoming more knowledgeable is what helps move things to resolution (whether through agreement or trial). Investing in your knowledge is critical to your success.
If you cannot afford to hire a lawyer on a full retainer, then figure out the best way to get the most for your money. You may want to pay a lawyer to do a piece of the work for you on a limited scope basis. This can be a smart way to use your money when you don’t have the time, energy, or knowledge to deal with that specific piece. Or you may decide the best use of your money is on a legal coach who can help when and how you need it over the course of a period of time. You can work with a lawyer to determine how to get best return on the investment of your legal dollar.
Spending money on the right lawyer, in the right way and at the right time, is an investment in knowledge. It pays off in the short- and long-term.
Check back next week, ‘N’ is for …