Paid a lawyer $500 just to tell me I didn't need a lawyer

Thea Taylor · 2026-04-12T07:15:06.14778+00:00

When my ex and I first split, I was sure I needed a lawyer for everything. I booked a one hour meeting with a family law attorney in my town, which cost me $500. She basically said our case was so simple (no kids, no house) that we could file the papers ourselves for under $300. I felt so dumb for not checking that first. Has anyone else had a lawyer give them advice that basically saved them money by telling them to go away? What did you do next?

wren2305mo ago

At least you got honest advice for your money.

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felixlane5mo ago

Man, my buddy had the same thing happen with a small business question. Paid a ton for a consult and the guy was like "you don't need me yet, just go file this one form." Totally get what @paul_ramirez means about learning when you actually need one.

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paul_ramirez5mo ago

Used to think a lawyer was always the first step. That $500 lesson really shifted my view on when you actually need one.

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