Major Types of Attorneys
Regardless of your legal problem, there is a lawyer specializing in that particular issue. The legal field is complex and vast, and most attorneys focus on a specific area. Make sure the lawyer you hire has the required expertise to handle the unique situation you may be having. Below is a list of common types of lawyers.
Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injury attorneys work in civil litigation and represent individuals who sustain injuries. The injuries may stem from medical malpractices, car accidents, workplace accidents, or product liability. Personal injury lawyers assist clients in proving the liability of the at-fault party to secure compensation for the plaintiff. Most of these cases get settled out of court.
Bankruptcy Lawyer
Individuals experiencing financial difficulties may consult a bankruptcy attorney to file for bankruptcy. The attorney can advise clients on various types of bankruptcy to consider their eligibility for bankruptcy, and potential alternatives. Bankruptcy lawyers can represent corporate and individual creditors and debtors, bankruptcy trustees, and creditors’ committees. Bankruptcies are classified under Chapter 7 when clients liquidate their assets to pay off their debt, Chapter 11 when clients restructure their debts to meet various obligations, and Chapter 13 when corporates restructure their debts to meet their obligations. Chapter 11 and Chapter 13 debt restructuring does not involve liquidating assets.
Intellectual Property Lawyer
An intellectual property (IP) attorney counsels individuals on various issues such as inventions, tangible or intangible ideas, and other intellectual property. The main areas of legislation that are relevant to this practice include trademark, copyright, and patent. Patent law demands additional licensing and a background in engineering, chemistry, software development, and life sciences. IP lawyers work with their clients to negotiate settlements, license interventions, and defend IP portfolios of businesses or individuals.
Business Lawyer
Numerous regulations and rules govern trade and commerce. Corporate attorneys such as Brad Kern handle various business legal matters to ensure all transactions occur within the federal, state, and local laws. Business lawyers handle various legal issues, including acquisitions, mergers, patents, dissolution or formation of a business, liability disputes, and intellectual property. A corporate lawyer can negotiate contracts, revise legal documents, and conduct legal research.
Estate Planning Lawyer
An estate planning attorney handles issues related to property rights, probate, wills, and trusts. They provide expert legal assistance and advice to ensure proper handling of client assets, tax, and other legal issues. Estate planning attorneys assist clients in evaluating their liabilities and assets to facilitate decision-making. Estate planning lawyers must pursue additional certifications such as Accredited Estate Planner (AEP), Chartered Trust and Estate Planner (CTEP), and Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA).
Immigration Lawyer
Gaining citizenship can be intimidating at times. Immigration attorneys are crucial in guiding families or individuals who want to work, live, or study in the US. Immigration lawyers can assist asylum seekers and refugees in navigating the requirements of residing in the US. Employees and employers participating in work-visa programs can hire immigration attorneys to secure legal work status. Immigration lawyers work in multiple settings, from government agencies to firms specializing in immigration law or non-profit organizations.
Various types of attorneys are available today. Hire a lawyer with tons of experience in the specific area of interest to ensure better outcomes.
