Common Practice Areas, Explained
Lawyers tend to focus on specific areas of law, and hiring one who works in the right area is the key to getting efficient, good-value help. Here is a plain-English tour of the practice areas New York consumers ask about most, so you know what kind of lawyer to look for and can compare specialists rather than generalists.
Family Law
Covers divorce, child custody and support, spousal maintenance, and related matters. Costs vary enormously depending on whether the case is contested. Uncontested matters are often handled at lower, more predictable fees, so it is worth asking each lawyer how they price both scenarios.
Personal Injury
Handles claims for injuries caused by accidents, such as car crashes or slip-and-fall incidents. These cases are commonly taken on a contingency basis, meaning the lawyer is paid a percentage of any recovery and typically nothing if you do not win. Compare the percentages and ask what costs come out of your share.
Estate Planning and Probate
Includes wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and the court process of settling an estate after someone dies. Many basic estate documents are offered at flat fees, which makes comparison shopping straightforward for budget-minded consumers.
Real Estate and Housing
Spans buying and selling property, leases, and landlord-tenant disputes. In New York, many real estate closings involve attorneys, and housing matters range from simple lease questions to contested proceedings. Fees may be flat for routine closings and hourly for disputes.
Employment Law
Deals with workplace issues such as wrongful termination, discrimination, wage disputes, and contracts. Some employment matters are handled on contingency, others hourly, so ask how a given lawyer structures fees for your situation.
Criminal Defense
Represents people accused of crimes, from minor offenses to serious charges. If you cannot afford a lawyer for a criminal matter, you may be entitled to a public defender. Otherwise, compare experience with your specific charge and the local court.
Business and Contracts
Covers forming a business, drafting and reviewing agreements, and resolving commercial disputes. Many routine business tasks can be quoted as flat fees, which helps small business owners budget.
Immigration
Handles visas, green cards, citizenship, and related processes. Because immigration is federal, these lawyers serve clients across New York and beyond.
How to Use This List
Once you know which area fits your problem, look specifically for lawyers who concentrate there, then compare a few of them on experience and fees. A focused practitioner usually works faster and more confidently than a generalist. To turn this into action, pair this page with our questions to ask and hiring checklist.