Legal FAQs
Questions. Answers.
If you’re facing a legal issue in North Dakota or Minnesota and aren’t sure where to turn, the right attorney can provide the guidance and support you need to find a solution.
DO I NEED A LAWYER?
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. And even if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to contact us. It’s always better to ask early than wait too long. We’ll let you know if we’re able to assist.
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. To determine which type of attorney can best assist you, we invite you to visit our Practice Areas page, where you can 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, depending on the nature of the case and the agreement made with the client. Common fee structures include:
- Flat Fee – A fixed amount is charged for specific services, such as drafting a will or handling a simple divorce.
- 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.
- 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. We accept 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?
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. Next, stay available and communicate your thoughts, questions, or concerns with your attorney promptly. We have to work together as a team to achieve the most favorable outcome.