If you’ve got a problem – get advice – doing nothing is usually the worst option.
When should you use a solicitor?
Actually, more often than you think – he is there to stop you from getting into difficulty and to negotiate your way out if you go to him too late.
He is the one person you should be able to trust to be totally on your side and totally independent.
To get the best advice, ask around. You wouldn’t choose a plumber without checking first with family and friends to see who they recommend and why. The same applies to solicitors and other professionals. Choose carefully – ask around.
Sue or be sued – “He who alleges must prove,” so gather your evidence together & start preparing your case. You’ll save time and money if you do. Write down everything you can remember about the case and the people involved.
Talk to your solicitor before talking to anyone else. Most solicitors will give you a free half hour consultation – use it wisely – solicitors charge for their time.
“If you tell the truth you will have nothing to remember.” Never lie, the smallest untruth can catch you out, discredit all that you say and destroy your case.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, make it a rule never to sign anything you don’t fully understand.
If something seems too good to be true, then it almost certainly is.
In almost everything you do, it helps to think and plan ahead and this is particularly true in relation to business. If you don't have a plan you are really planning to fail.
If you are involved in an accident or someone makes a claim against you, never ever admit liability. Whilst it may seem polite or natural to say, “I’m sorry,” - please don’t. This may sound and indeed be very un-British but there is a good reason for the advice. Admitting liability could break the terms of your insurance policy and leave you to face the claim on your own, without any insurance cover at all. Seek advice as soon as possible.
LIFE IS NO PICNIC
PLAN AHEAD
WHEN THINGS GO WRONG
CALL YOUR SOLICITOR - BEFORE TALKING TO ANYONE ELSE
MOST SOLICITORS DO NOT CHARGE FOR A PRELIMINARY CONSULTATION