In our daily lives, we rarely run up against a legal issue in need of professional help – but, unfortunately, when we do, some of us continue to fall prey to some pretty major mistakes.
Read more below.
Top Legal Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Choosing a ‘Bucket Shop’ Conveyancer
Conveyancing is a high-stakes branch of law, and one that most of us will have to call upon at various points in our lives. They are there to see us through situations that would otherwise be incredibly stressful, and could so easily go wrong. Even relatively minor delays or mistakes can – and do – derail entire property chains, and leave clients back at square one.
For this reason, one of the very worst things any of us can do is turn to a conveyancer who has not already proven themselves a respected and valuable part of the local community. Dealing with the stress of moving house is enough, without having to put your faith in a bucket shop conveyancer.
2. Writing Your Own Will
While DIY or ‘homemade’ wills have become a highly popular choice in recent years, they do pose their own pitfalls which, unfortunately, are so rarely spotted until it is too late.
Wills are subject to some strict regulations. They need to be completed to a specific standard, and any clerical errors, or issues with witnessing, can render them invalid. What’s more, sorting through your assets is a complicated process – it would be so easy to miss something important, such as a business interest or unusual asset.
Again, one of the most reliable ways to create this document is to work with a solicitor experienced in wills and trusts. Otherwise, your loved ones may have to turn to contesting a will solicitors after your death.
3. Not Making Business Contracts
The term ‘business contracts’ covers all manner of documents, from employment contracts to non-disclosure and supplier agreements. When you’re dealing with third-parties near-constantly, it can be incredibly tempting to see contracts as just another disruption to the flow of business, and to skip the formalities every once in a while.
However, they are essential to your ability to keep your business safe from some pretty disastrous eventualities and disputes.
4. Not Using a Divorce Lawyer
There is a lot of information out there intended to support people through divorces, without the help of a solicitor. The only trouble is that this advice has to remain generic, which means that the particulars of your situation will never be properly addressed by any ‘DIY’ divorce guide, particularly where children and/or finances aspects are concerned.
So, while it is always tempting to follow the path of least resistance and apply for your divorce without first speaking to a solicitor, it can easily mean that you are unable to address your rights and needs properly.
5. Leaving Legal Matters too Late
Some legal issues are dependent upon relatively quick action. For instance, anyone looking to file a claim under the Inheritance Act must do so within six months of grant of probate being issued, while personal injuries must be claimed within three years of the injury taking place (except in special circumstances).
Even if you are within rights to file a claim, it may be that you have simply left it too long – a frustrating experience for anyone.