Just like with some forms of insurance, most people don’t think they need a lawyer — that is, not until they do. However, if you look closely, there are actually many instances in life where you may find yourself seeking legal advice.

Here are five reasons where having a lawyer to advise you can spell the difference between solving a problem and losing out in the end.

1. To ensure the outcome you want is legally binding

Whether you need legal advice or help with drafting a document, such as a will, contract or agreement, having a lawyer to consult means you can be confident that whatever decisions you’ll make will be within the bounds of the law.

So, if your lawyer takes care of creating or scrutinising a legal document for you before you sign on the dotted line, you have the assurance that you’re only doing so after receiving advice from a qualified legal professional.

2. To know your rights and entitlements

There are situations where the one at fault gets away, and the victim misses out on an opportunity to make a proper claim or get compensated for damages.

For example, one could become the victim of fraud or bad financial advice, or experience a work-related accident. Before you accept what the other party is offering as compensation (if at all), consult a lawyer first so they can find out whether the offer is fair or if you’ll be short-changed. Your lawyer will be there to ensure you’re able to exercise your rights and receive entitlements as mandated by the law.

3. To help you save money

While you can always try to DIY your way out of a legal pickle, it’s usually better to speak to a lawyer and get their input on a range of legal matters. With your lawyer’s feedback, you can get rid of onerous obligations in contracts or agreements, avoid ambiguity in legal documents, and resolve problems right away.

If you attempt to ‘take care’ of such things on your own and end up getting in trouble, you’ll find it more difficult and expensive to rectify such problems. Therefore, it’s usually better to get professional legal input at the outset.

4. To avoid getting penalised

Ignorance of the law excuses no one. So, if you end up getting fined or penalised for a blunder or oversight involving your business, for example, you have no legal recourse except to own up and pay up. It doesn’t matter if such an error arose from an honest mistake or your lack of knowledge and understanding of the law.

So, in the conduct of your business, it’s best to seek legal input in all matters, whether it involves leases, employment contracts, taxes, vendor agreements and so on.

5. To have ready legal representation

Having legal representation is crucial, especially when the other party already has one if there’s a disagreement or issue that needs to be settled. Once you have a lawyer, you won’t need to speak for yourself and be fearful of saying something that’ll get you into (more) trouble. You also know your rights will be protected and that you’ll have someone who knows the law inside out fighting for you.

There are many other reasons or scenarios why you need a lawyer to be ready by your side. However, the above reasons pretty much cover the most common ones.

If this article has inspired you to think about your own unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please contact your advice professional.

This information does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any person. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)