Plain-English Legal Guides
Short guides to hiring a lawyer, legal fees, what to do after an accident, free consultations and more.
How to choose the right lawyerHow to find and choose a lawyer: where to look, how to check their record, and the 10 questions to ask in your consultation about fees, exp…
How do contingency fees work?Contingency fees explained: typical percentages, gross vs net calculation, case costs, sliding scales and how to negotiate a fair agreement.
What to do after a car accidentA clear checklist for the minutes, days and weeks after a car accident: safety, police, evidence, medical care, insurance calls and when to…
Where to find free or low-cost legal helpFree legal aid, law school clinics, state bar referral services, court self-help centers and other ways to get legal help when money is tig…
Statute of limitations, explainedWhat a statute of limitations is, typical deadlines for injury, contract and other claims, special rules that shorten or extend them, and w…
How small claims court worksHow to use small claims court: dollar limits, sending a demand letter, filing, serving the other side, preparing evidence and collecting a …
Living trust vs willLiving trust vs will: how each works, probate, privacy, costs ($1,000-$3,000+ for a trust plan vs a few hundred for a will), and who needs …
How long does probate take?Probate usually takes about 6 months to 2 years. See the steps, what causes delays, small-estate shortcuts and when to hire a probate lawye…
How much does a divorce lawyer cost?Divorce lawyers typically charge $250-$500+ an hour with a retainer. An uncontested divorce can cost a few thousand dollars; contested divo…
How much does a will cost?A will can cost $0 with a free template, about $50-$200 online, or roughly $300-$1,000+ with a lawyer. Here’s what you get at each price an…