We can't say for certain without first learning more about your specific situation. To determine whether you need a lawyer and whether we can help, we begin with a consultation. Our consultations are designed to assess whether we're a good fit for your legal needs. If you think you might need legal assistance, feel free to reach out by phone or email—there's no risk to you. If you've been charged with a crime or served with a lawsuit, it's especially important to speak with a lawyer right away. It's always better to ask early than wait too long.

What kind of attorney do I need?

The type of attorney you need depends on the specific legal issue you're facing. For example, if you need assistance with family law matters such as divorce, child custody, adoption, or child support, you'll want a family law attorney. If you're dealing with criminal charges, a criminal defense attorney would be the right choice. Visit our Practice Areas page to explore the services we offer and find an attorney who specializes in the area that fits your needs.

How do I hire a lawyer?

Feel free to call or email us to get started. After we've spoken with you and conducted a consultation, we'll provide you with a Representation Agreement for your review. This agreement outlines the scope of our services, the duration of the representation, fees, billing details, and payment instructions. Please note that you are not considered a client until the Representation Agreement is signed.

How does a lawyer charge for services?

A lawyer typically charges for services in one of several ways: (1) Flat Fee – A fixed amount charged for specific services, such as drafting a will or handling a simple divorce. (2) Contingency Fee – In some cases, especially personal injury or certain civil cases, the lawyer may take a percentage of the settlement or award if the case is successful. (3) Retainer Fee – A client may pay an upfront fee that acts as a deposit to cover future legal work. During your initial consultation, we'll discuss the fee structure that best fits your case and provide a clear breakdown of costs.

How do I pay my bill?

You can pay your bill in several convenient ways. SW&L Attorneys accepts cash, check, credit cards, and money orders. Payments can be made in person, over the phone, by mail, or online. If you have any questions about how to make a payment or need assistance, feel free to contact us.

Do SW&L Attorneys accept payment plans?

SW&L Attorneys may consider payment plans in certain circumstances. We understand that legal services can be a significant financial commitment and we're open to discussing payment options based on your specific situation. Please reach out to us so we can evaluate your case and explore potential solutions.

Who will work on my case?

The attorney you speak with during your initial consultation will take the lead on your case and serve as your primary point of contact. They may delegate certain tasks to other attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants to ensure your case is handled efficiently and in a timely manner.

How can I help with my own case?

To help us get started, please provide all relevant information and documents related to your case. This helps us understand the issue and build a complete file. It's also important to share what you and others involved know about the case. Stay available and communicate your thoughts, questions, or concerns with your attorney promptly. Working together as a team is key to achieving the most favorable outcome.

Resources

YOUR LEGAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Our experienced team writes all of our articles, offering insights based on real-world cases and common client questions. We handle all content in-house to maintain accuracy and ensure it’s relevant to our practice areas and the legal landscape in the Midwest. Subscribe to our newsletter to obtain helpful legal information delivered directly to your inbox.

Search Blog

YOUR LEGAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Personal Injury

Before You Hire an Injury Attorney, Ask This One Question

By Nathan Severson Will you take my case to trial

March 5, 2026

Guardianships

Guardianships in North Dakota: What Families Really Need to Know

By: Jesse Maier Most people don’t wake up one morning

February 25, 2026

Criminal Defense

Twelve Angry Men Jury Size and Juror Requirements

Contributor: Adam Justinger Introduction Most people picture a jury the

February 20, 2026

Civil/Commercial Litigation

Crossing State Lines for Evidence: Navigating Interstate Discovery in Civil Cases

Obtaining evidence from another state can be a daunting task

February 12, 2026

Uncategorized

CanYou File a Case if You are Partially At Fault

INTRODUCTION You’re driving home after a long day. It’s late

February 9, 2026

Business Law

North Dakota vs. Minnesota LLCs: Which State Should Fargo-Moorhead Businesses Choose?

Comparing North Dakota and Minnesota LLCs for Fargo-Moorhead businesses. Formation costs, asset protection, annual compliance, and cross-border requirements.
Author: Adam Wogsland

February 4, 2026

Personal Injury

Legal Perspectives on Electric Micromobility in North Dakota

For Christmas this past year, my husband was gifted a Onewheel, bringing him back to his skateboarding days. What in the world is a Onewheel, you might ask? Is it a unicycle? A wheelbarrow?

January 22, 2026

Family Law

Preparing for Your First Family Law Attorney Meeting

If you’re considering hiring a family law attorney, you may be wondering what the consultation process looks like and how to prepare. At SW&L Attorneys, we aim to make this first step as simple, informative, and stress-free as possible. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect from start to finish.

January 15, 2026