The Law Offices of Steven M. DuBreuil, PLLC is an experienced, dedicated law firm located in Sandy, Utah. We work hard to provide a balance by making sure that the state plays by the rules. If they want to punish you, mar your record or take away your freedom, they’ll have to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Often, when we’re involved, they cannot do so.
I am Steven M. DuBreuil, a Salt Lake City criminal defense attorney who is dedicated to protecting the rights of the accused. I represent good people who find themselves in bad situations. I listen to them; guide them through the legal process and work diligently to achieve a positive resolution to their problem.
Innocent people are arrested every day; most face excessive charges. You can get arrested on one person’s word, on flawed evidence or by police officers who fail to follow the letter of the law. I represent clients for a reasonable fee and payment plans are available.
Never assume that your case is beyond hope. And never plead guilty without first speaking to a criminal defense lawyer. I can review your case, explain your options and protect your legal rights.
The on-demand economy continues to expand its reach. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are perhaps the most visible examples, the concept has crept into more and more industries, including the legal profession.
On-demand services make it easier than ever for businesses and consumers to find the right lawyer for the job and quickly complete common legal tasks or receive tailored advice, without office visits, opaque fee structures or pricey retainers. While it’s easy to understand why consumers love the on-demand economy, many solo practitioners or small legal firms aren’t as clear on how this new trend works and its potential benefits for licensed attorneys.
Here are the basics.
On-Demand Legal Platforms: How Do They Work?
On-demand legal platforms provide a range of products, information and services for clients and attorneys alike.
Generally, most of these platforms promise a fixed (or at least transparent) and often more affordable rates than traditional law firms.
Clients choose from a set menu of legal counsel, documents and services, and order with a few clicks via web or smartphone app. The work and related communication is delivered electronically, generally with no in-person visits.
Although on-demand legal services can be used for a multitude of legal needs, they are often used for smaller standalone business needs and documents, such as business formation, agreements, patents and trademarks.
Popular Platforms and Types
There are now dozens of on-demand legal platforms, covering nearly every legal service and industry imaginable.
Some, like LegalZoom and LawGo cover a broad range of both personal and business legal needs.
Others like Priori Legal and UpCounsel are marketed specifically for business clients, with specific offerings for small businesses and startups.
Other platforms serve even more specific verticals or needs, such as Bridge.us (immigration) Fixed (parking tickets), or Shake (legally binding contracts and agreements).
Some platforms market around location or flat-rate billing. For instance, Avvo offers 15 minutes of legal advice from a top-reviewed lawyer for a flat $39. LawNearMe harness the local search trend by helping clients find a qualified lawyer in their area.
Lastly, some apps like MyCase are marketed for lawyers, to help them find clients, manage their case load or practice and more. There’s even an app called CourtDial that can connect you with any courtroom in the country in a flash, should you, say, run late to a hearing.
What’s In It For You?
The benefit to clients is obvious. Quick, affordable, no-hassle legal services. But what about for you? Is it worth trying an on-demand legal platform? And if so, how do you get started?
If your case load doesn’t hover near capacity or you’re interested in freelancing, some of the aforementioned apps accept applications from qualified attorneys. You can join an existing platform and gain clients and additional revenue streams, even from home.
However, you may not realize there are many other ways on-demand legal apps can help you. From accessing vast document libraries to checking the citations in legal briefs, there’s an app for that. Even for those who prefer their stately brownstone office and face to face meetings, on-demand apps can help make work days more accurate, informed and efficient.