Lawyers, also called attorneys, act as both advocates and advisors in our society. As advocates, they represent one of the parties in criminal and civil trials by presenting evidence and arguing in court to support their client. As advisors, lawyers counsel their clients concerning their legal rights and obligations and suggest particular courses of action in business and personal matters. Whether acting as an advocate or an advisor, all attorneys research the intent of laws and judicial decisions and apply the law to the specific circumstances faced by their client.

The more detailed aspects of a lawyer’s job depend upon his or her field of specialization and position. Although all lawyers are licensed to represent parties in court, some appear in court more frequently than others. Trial lawyers, who specialize in trial work, must be able to think quickly and speak with ease and authority. In addition, familiarity with courtroom rules and strategy is particularly important in trial work. Still, trial lawyers spend the majority of their time outside the courtroom, conducting research, interviewing clients and witnesses, and handling other details in preparation for a trial.

There are many types of legal issues that might require an attorney's help. You may consider hiring a lawyer if you have suffered an injury, been wrongfully terminated at work, are thinking about starting a business, or have been accused of committing a crime. Lawyers can help with legal problems after they come up -- after a car accident, for example -- but in other instances, consulting a lawyer before a legal issue arises can help you anticipate and prevent serious legal problems.

If you are seriously considering hiring an attorney, once you locate an lawyer you are comfortable with, do an extensive interview process and do not be afraid to ask the tough questions. How long have they been practicing? What is their success rate? What type of experience they have with your type of cases? What are their hourly fees? Some lawyers may even negotiate their prices, while others have a strict policy on never negotiating a price.

Attorneys will assess your legal issue and can tell you at the outset whether it is worth your while to obtain legal assistance and/or pursue legal action. If legal action or assistance is necessary, your lawyer will evaluate all aspects of your situation with you, explain your options and what to expect at every step, and will take any action necessary to ensure that your legal rights are fully assessed and protected -- researching the law, interviewing witnesses, collecting records, conferring with expert consultants, planning legal strategy, preparing and filing necessary paperwork, and negotiating with insurers and opposing counsel -- all with an eye toward ensuring the best possible outcome for your legal issue.

Most legal situations (such as those identified above) require the assistance of an experienced lawyer. But in other less serious matters, self representation may also be an option. You may be able to resolve a minor legal dispute by writing letters or negotiating informally, or in a "small claims" court if the dispute has a value less than or equal to a certain amount (perhaps $5,000). Be sure to check with your local court for applicable "small claims" limits.