An attorney (also called a lawyer) is a licensed professional who is legally qualified to represent individuals, businesses, or government entities in legal matters. In the U.S., attorneys provide services such as legal advice, contract drafting, court representation, dispute resolution, and advocacy.
⚖️ Types of Attorneys (by Practice Area)
Depending on your legal needs, you may work with a specialized attorney. Here are the most common types:
1. Criminal Defense Attorney
- Defends individuals or organizations accused of crimes
- Can handle anything from misdemeanors to serious felonies
- May be public defenders (appointed) or private attorneys
2. Personal Injury Attorney
- Helps clients recover compensation for injuries from:
- Car accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Usually works on contingency (no fee unless you win)
3. Family Law Attorney
- Handles legal issues involving:
- Divorce
- Child custody/support
- Adoption
- Prenuptial agreements
4. Immigration Attorney
- Assists with:
- Visas and green cards
- Citizenship and naturalization
- Deportation defense
- Asylum cases
5. Real Estate Attorney
- Reviews property transactions:
- Closings
- Title searches
- Zoning issues
- Disputes between buyers/sellers
6. Business/Corporate Attorney
- Advises companies on:
- Contracts and compliance
- Mergers/acquisitions
- Intellectual property
- Employment law
7. Estate Planning Attorney
- Helps manage your assets before and after death:
- Wills and trusts
- Powers of attorney
- Probate process
8. Bankruptcy Attorney
- Guides individuals or businesses through:
- Chapter 7 (liquidation)
- Chapter 13 (repayment plan)
- Debt relief and creditor negotiations
🧑⚖️ When You Might Need an Attorney
You should consider hiring an attorney if:
- You’re facing criminal charges or a lawsuit
- You’re involved in a legal dispute
- You’re making a major legal transaction (buying property, forming a business)
- You need help understanding your legal rights or obligations
📄 What an Attorney Can Do for You
| Legal Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Legal Advice | Clarifies your rights and options |
| Contract Review | Ensures documents are legal and fair |
| Court Representation | Argues your case in court |
| Negotiation | Works to settle disputes outside court |
| Filing Paperwork | Drafts and submits legal documents correctly |
💰 Attorney Fees
| Fee Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $150–$500+/hr depending on expertise and location |
| Flat Fee | Fixed cost for a service (e.g., will drafting) |
| Contingency | No payment unless you win (common in personal injury) |
| Retainer | Advance payment held in a trust account and used as work is done |
📍 How to Find an Attorney
- Referrals from friends or family
- Online directories (e.g., Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, Justia)
- State bar associations (official lawyer referral services)
- Legal aid organizations (for low-income individuals)
✅ Tips for Choosing the Right Attorney
- Look for specialization in your legal issue
- Check state bar license and disciplinary history
- Ask about fees and payment structure upfront
- Read online reviews and ask for client references
- Meet for a consultation to see if they’re a good fit