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TV LAWYERS VS. LOCAL LAWYERS

"Have Briefcase, Will Travel"

You're watching Gunsmoke on late night TV.  A well dressed lawyer suddenly appears on a slick TV ad.  He promises to help you get your "much deserved" Social Security disability.  You are presented an 800 number to call.  You don't know where that call will be answered, or by whom.  It almost certainly won't be answered by the guy on TV--who was probably a paid actor pretending to be a lawyer.  The real lawyers may be in New York, Texas, Florida or Hawaii. Who knows?

Things you need to know about some TV lawyers:

1.  These lawyers may not be local.  While some local lawyers do advertise on TV, many national firms from out of state also advertise on TV.  

2.  When you call a toll free number, you don't know where the call is going or where it will be answered.  Probably, it goes to a national call center which takes thousands of calls each day.

3.  You may never speak to the real lawyer.  Your paperwork may be handled entirely by a clerical worker, a call center employee or at best a paralegal.  

4.  If you are getting ready for a Social Security disability hearing before a judge, it's very likely you will not meet your lawyer until a few minutes before the hearing starts. This makes it  a very non-personal relationship where everything has been handled over the phone or by mail.  No personal service.

5.  If your attorney is a "remote" representative (working from an office thousands of miles away) -- you may not be able to call and speak to the lawyer and he/she may not return your phone calls personally.  

I dare say this is not the kind of arrangement most people want.  Most people want a local attorney or advocate who lives in or near their hometown--someone you can visit at their office, speak to on the phone--or get your call returned promptly.  If this is what you expect, I encourage you to obtain representation locally--in or near your hometown.  If you want personal service--where you can meet with your representative as you prepare you case--call a local advocate or attorney.

The Forsythe Firm is located in Huntsville, across from Bridge Street.  We have been in the same location for almost 2 decades.  We offer full service representation:  meaning, you can meet with us, call us, or ask questions any time.  When we appear at your hearing we will be a familiar face whom you know and have worked with.  You will always be able to speak to the professional who is working your case.  

 I'm not saying that all TV lawyers are bad.  But they may not be the personal, close advisor that you want and need.  

 

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