HOW TO AVOID A CROOKED LAWYER IN PNG

 

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a complex legal system that can be challenging for ordinary citizens to navigate. This is where lawyers come in to provide legal advice and represent clients in court. However, not all lawyers are honest and trustworthy, and some can take advantage of their clients. In this article, I will highlight to you some tips that you can use to avoid crooked lawyers in PNG.

1. Research the Lawyer's Reputation

Before hiring a lawyer, it is essential to do some research on their reputation. Ask friends, family members, or colleagues who have used the lawyer's services before about their experience. You can also check online reviews or ratings on websites such as Google or Facebook. These platforms can give you an insight into the lawyer's reliability and honesty.

2. Check the Lawyer's Credentials

It is vital to verify the lawyer's credentials before hiring them. You can check with the Papua New Guinea Law Society to ensure that the lawyer is licensed to practice in the country. You can also verify their credentials by checking their academic qualifications, professional experience, and any disciplinary actions against them.

3. Discuss Fees and Costs Upfront

Before engaging a lawyer, it is crucial to discuss their fees and costs upfront. A good lawyer will be transparent about their charges and explain how they bill their clients. You should also get a written agreement outlining the lawyer's fees and the services they will provide.

4. Look for Red Flags

There are some red flags that you should look out for when hiring a lawyer. These include a lawyer who promises a guaranteed outcome or tries to pressure you into signing an agreement without reading it thoroughly. You should also be wary of a lawyer who asks for payment upfront without providing any services or insists on handling your case outside the legal system.

5. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, it is essential to trust your instincts when hiring a lawyer. If something seems off or you feel uncomfortable with the lawyer, it is best to look for someone else. You need to work with a lawyer that you feel comfortable with, and you can trust to represent your interests.

Hiring a crooked lawyer can be a nightmare for clients in PNG. However, by doing your research, verifying the lawyer's credentials, discussing fees and costs upfront, looking for red flags, and trusting your instincts, you can avoid such lawyers. A good lawyer will represent your interests, provide legal advice, and help you navigate the complex legal system in PNG.

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