Crista Marichalar, P.C.

I believe that each client should educate themselves to the best of their ability. However, clients also need to understand that the internet and friends are not always an ideal resource for education unless they are relying on state specific documents. What is valid in California may not be valid in Texas. Clients should speak with their attorney and obtain legal education through them. Attorneys have practiced the law and have received extensive training.

Clients should trust their lawyer's advice over anything on the internet. With the advent of the internet, clients are increasingly more aware of legal issues. While there are some good and informative self-help websites, clients need to be cautious before drawing any conclusions concerning their particular legal matter before consulting with an experienced attorney. Each case is unique. Potential clients should never consider comparisons or advice from non-lawyers re-iterating "similar" cases or results. That said, I am always happy to discuss matters with an educated client.

This will be considered on a case by case basis. Again, clients should be wary of obtaining forms or templates and merely inserting their personal information. My preference is to draft personalized documents for my clients. I would not accept pleadings or other documents prepared by a client to be used in any litigation.