Lawyers are Not Robots
Over the weekend, I settled in for a movie marathon with my husband and our feline companions. As I watched, a common trope emerged: characters facing a crisis would dramatically declare, “I’m calling my lawyer!” – often at odd hours or on weekends, with the expectation of immediate legal counsel. Its like Hollywood thinks lawyers aren’t human. I know for a fact lawyers are not robots.
While this makes for compelling drama, it’s far from the reality of how legal services work, especially in Illinois. As a divorce attorney, I want to shed light on why Hollywood’s portrayal of on-demand lawyers is often inaccurate and potentially misleading.
Myth vs. Reality: Lawyers are not Robots
Myth: Lawyers are licensed to practice law anywhere and can answer any legal question. Reality: Attorneys are licensed by the state, meaning they’ve passed the bar exam and are qualified to practice law only in that state. An Illinois lawyer may know little to nothing about the laws in New York, for example.
Myth: Lawyers are experts in every area of law. Reality: Attorneys typically specialize in specific practice areas. A divorce lawyer may not be able to answer complex questions about tax law or criminal defense. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney who focuses on the specific legal issue you’re facing.
Myth: Lawyers are available 24/7 to answer calls and provide instant solutions. Reality: Lawyers, like everyone else, have personal lives and need time for rest and relaxation. While some attorneys offer emergency services, they often come at a premium cost. Additionally, most legal issues can’t be resolved overnight, especially when courts are closed.
Myth: Anyone can call any lawyer and expect immediate representation and free advice. Reality: A lawyer-client relationship is formed only after a mutual agreement and often involves a signed contract and payment. Attorneys are not obligated to take on every case or provide free advice to non-clients.
The Truth About My Practice
I’m a solo attorney in Illinois who focuses exclusively on uncontested divorces. This means I help couples who have already reached an agreement on the terms of their divorce to navigate the legal paperwork and finalize the process. I don’t represent clients in contested court cases where a judge must decide issues like property division or parenting time allocation.
My approach is different from many other attorneys. I offer flat-fee pricing for most of my services, providing transparency and predictability for my clients. I keep regular business hours and strive to provide timely and effective assistance within those hours.
Need Help with Your Uncontested Divorce in Illinois?
If you’re considering an uncontested divorce and need assistance with the legal aspects, I invite you to reach out. You can visit my website at www.flatfeedivorcesolutions.com or call my office at 618-726-2671 to learn more about how I can help you achieve a smooth and amicable divorce process.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and should not be taken as legal advice. If you need legal advice about your specific situation, please consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction.