Litigators: How Freelance Attorneys Can Help You
A freelancer can help a litigator at every stage of the litigation process, from assessing the viability of claims, to writing motions, to taking on appeals.
First, you may want some help before you ever take on a file. A freelancer can help you dig into some facts or do a bit of legal research so you can tell whether a claim or defense is viable.
Once you’ve decided to take on the case, a freelancer can help with pleadings by drafting a complaint or answer for you.
Next comes the hard process of discovery. A freelancer may be able to review existing documents, and help you develop or respond to discovery requests.
And of course, motion practice is a freelancer strength. This can include doing some or all of the legal research needed, marshalling factual support, and drafting the motions themselves, depending on your needs.
Finally, if you end up in trial, a freelancer can continue to be your partner and support. A freelancer can prepare motions in limine as well as jury instructions. For court trials, a freelancer can prepare trial briefs, proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law, and proposed orders, along with post-trial motions.
In addition, a freelancer can do the research and drafting needed for strong appellate briefs, as much as you want, offer a fresh look at facts and the law, or even take over an appeal entirely, as some freelancers specialize in appeals.
As you head into your next matter, think through where you can use help and what you can spin off. An experienced freelancer can help at every step of the litigation process.
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Great post Karen! Freelancers can be an extra set of eyes or an extra set of hands when you need them most. As a freelancer who also has a solo practice I’m intrigued at the idea of having someone check out questions I might have when evaluating a prospective case – would love to hear more about that!
Deciding whether to take on a new case is a big step. You want to be sure you’ve assessed well your likelihood of success. A freelancer can look into an area of law that may be new to you. And think about how it would apply to the facts. The outlook can always change as a case develops. But it’s good to take a careful look first. A freelancer can help with that.