This article is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal advice. Use of this site and its content does not establish an attorney-client relationship. For more information about hiring an attorney in North Carolina, call The Law Offices of Alesia M. Vick at (919) 217-8425.

When is a lawyer necessary? And, can hiring a lawyer really help? The answer is simply, "It depends..." The initial consultation is one of the most important ways to determine if you need an attorney to handle your legal matter. In some matters such as medical malpractice and personal injury, the initial consultation may be FREE of charge. These matters are what attorneys term "contingency matters". In such cases, the lawyer or law firm collects its fees only if the client receives a settlement or is awarded a judgment. Know what it will cost before you schedule your first appointment. For non-contingency legal matters, consultation fees can range between $150 ~ $500 per hour. These fees are generally determined by several factors - experience, competition, and location. A law firm with its office in Raleigh, North Carolina may charge double the fees of a Knightdale law firm. If finances are an issue, Legal Aid of North Carolina may be able to help locate a lawyer to work pro bono or free of charge.