We Mean It: Sometimes You Need a Lawyer
We're an AI-powered dispute tool. We're designed to help with everyday disputes — billing errors, landlord disagreements, service provider conflicts, refunds. But we've seen cases go badly because people stayed in DIY mode too long.
This page is our attempt to be honest about when you've crossed the line.
Signs You Should Talk to a Lawyer
High dollar amounts: If the disputed amount exceeds what a small claims court can handle in your state (typically $3,000-$10,000), you may need real legal representation to recover it effectively.
Legal complexity: Contract disputes involving non-compete clauses, lease termination with penalties, employment-related claims — these have legal nuances that general advice can't address adequately.
The other side has a lawyer: If you're receiving legal correspondence, you should be too. Responding to a lawyer without one puts you at a significant disadvantage.
Statute of limitations is approaching: If you're close to the legal deadline for filing, a lawyer can help you preserve your rights quickly.
Injury or property damage: Anything involving physical harm or significant property loss has liability implications that amateur involvement can make worse.
The company is a large corporation: Big companies have legal departments. If they're deploying lawyers, you need one.
Where to Get Affordable Legal Help
You don't need $500/hour counsel for every situation:
- Legal aid societies — free or low-cost help for qualifying income levels
- Bar association referrals — many offer 30-minute consultations for $50-$150
- Law school clinics — law students under supervision, free or very low cost
- Unbundled legal services — pay a lawyer only to review your documents or give advice, not to represent you in court
What We Can Still Help With
Even when you need a lawyer, we can help you:
- Document the dispute clearly before the consultation
- Organize your timeline and evidence
- Write a demand letter to preserve your position while you find representation
- Understand what kind of lawyer you actually need
The Honest Bottom Line
DIY dispute resolution works great for $50 billing errors and standard landlord repair requests. It stops working when the money is significant, the legal issues are complex, or the other side has real firepower. Know the difference — it saves both time and money.