subject: Common Areas Of Law Practice [print this page] Just like doctors specialize in certain areas of expertise like neurosurgery or optometry, lawyers across the country often specialize in certain types of law. Just because you were injured in a car accident and your cousin is a lawyer, doesn't mean you should hire him to represent you. Not unless your cousin specializes in personal injury law, that is. There are many areas of practice that an attorney can choose to specialize in. Personal injury law, criminal defense, immigration law, and family law are four areas of practice that are common areas of expertise and experience. An attorney who is specializes in one or two areas of practice are often more knowledgeable in that specific area as they gain consistent experience in their field.
Personal Injury Law
Lawyers who practice personal injury law cover many different types of accidents and injuries. People who have been injured, either physically or psychologically, resulting from wrongdoing or negligence of another person or company can seek the help of a personal injury lawyer. These injuries might be the result of an automobile accident, defective products, work injuries, medical malpractice or mistake, as well as slip and fall accidents.
Criminal Defense
Criminal defense attorneys are hired to represent someone who has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor. A criminal defense lawyer specializes in dealing with the issues surrounding the search of a client or property, the apprehension of a client, or the arrest of a client. Experienced criminal defense lawyers are highly sought after to assist clients in navigating the difficult legal red tape of the court system.
Immigration Law
Because the government policies regarding immigration can be complicated, strict, and difficult to navigate, it is common for immigrants to hire an immigration attorney to help them wade through the necessary laws and paperwork. Immigration lawyers must be experienced in all the necessary procedures for helping immigrants obtain asylum or helping them become citizens of the country.
Family Law
Family law deals with all the kinds of legal situations that might arise when handling certain family situations or domestic situations like divorce, prenuptial agreements, domestic partnership, property distribution, domestic violence, alimony, child and spousal support, etc. Family law is one of the busiest areas of law practice and issues of family law are constantly going through the court systems. Some municipalities are so busy with family law cases that they have courts dedicated to dealing with family law cases exclusively.
