FAQs
EVERYDAY LAW PLAN
Everyday Law Plan™ FAQs
What is the Everyday Law Plan™?
The Everyday Law Plan™ is a subscription-based legal service offered by Labor Advocate Law Firm, PLLC, a Texas-based law firm. It provides clients with access to complimentary limited scope legal services, such as monthly consultations and basic document assistance, for a flat monthly fee. Unlike insurance products or automated platforms like LegalZoom, you become a real client of our law firm, receiving personalized legal advice from licensed Texas attorneys.
What services are included in the Everyday Law Plan™?
The plan includes:
One 30-minute consultation per month (phone, video, or in-person, at our discretion) for general legal advice.
Complimentary preparation or review of basic legal documents (e.g., simple wills, powers of attorney, affidavits, or demand letters) using standard templates.
Representation for one Class C Misdemeanor (including traffic tickets) per year for individual plans, or two per year for family plans, within our coverage areas (subject to a separate retainer agreement).
Additional services are available for separate fees as outlined in our fee schedule.
What makes the Everyday Law Plan™ different from LegalZoom or legal insurance?
Unlike LegalZoom or similar platforms, which provide automated document services, or legal insurance, which may limit you to a network of attorneys, the Everyday Law Plan™ makes you a real client of Labor Advocate Law Firm, PLLC. You receive direct access to our licensed Texas attorneys for consultations and services, ensuring personalized legal guidance from a trusted law firm.
Who is eligible to join the Everyday Law Plan™?
The plan is available to individuals and, for family plans, their immediate family members (spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18 living in the same household). All services are limited to issues governed by Texas law, and eligibility for specific services, like traffic ticket representation, is subject to our review and coverage areas.
What is the scope of the attorney-client relationship under this plan?
The Everyday Law Plan™ establishes a limited scope attorney-client relationship, meaning we provide general legal advice, basic document assistance, and limited representation (e.g., for Class C Misdemeanors) as outlined in the agreement. We do not provide full representation, litigation, or services outside this scope unless a separate retainer agreement is signed.
What are the limitations of the Everyday Law Plan™?
Services are limited to general advice and basic documents; complex matters require additional fees or a separate agreement.
Representation for Class C Misdemeanors is limited to one (individual plan) or two (family plan) cases per year within our coverage areas.
The plan does not cover litigation, administrative proceedings, felonies, Class A or B misdemeanors, appeals, expunctions, or court-related fees (e.g., fines, court costs).
Consultations and services are subject to attorney availability and conflict-of-interest checks.
The Labor Advocate Law Firm is only licensed in the state of Texas and any documents or services will be limited to the state of Texas.
How does the monthly consultation work?
You are entitled to one 30-minute consultation per month, which can be scheduled via our online portal or by contacting one of our intake specialists. The consultation is for general legal advice based on the information you provide. Unused consultations do not roll over to the next month.
What types of documents are covered under the plan?
The plan includes complimentary preparation or review of basic legal documents, such as simple wills, powers of attorney, affidavits, or demand letters, using our standard templates. Complex or customized documents are not covered and may require additional fees.
How does the traffic ticket and Class C Misdemeanor representation work?
The plan covers representation for one (individual plan) or two (family plan) Class C Misdemeanor cases, including traffic tickets, per year within our coverage areas (Harris, Montgomery, Galveston, Fort Bend, and Brazoria Counties). You must provide at least 72 hours’ notice before the court date, sign a separate retainer agreement, and appear in court unless otherwise notified. Coverage does not include fines, court costs, or more serious charges like felonies or Class A/B misdemeanors.
What are the coverage areas and tiers for Class C Misdemeanor representation?
We offer three tiers of coverage, depending on the jurisdiction:
Tier One (In-Person): Full representation in Harris, Montgomery, Galveston, Fort Bend, and Brazoria Counties, subject to attorney availability.
Tier Two (Off-Docket): Assistance in resolving cases through agreements with prosecutors, where permitted.
Tier Three (Counsel and Advice): Legal advice to help you represent yourself if in-person or off-docket representation isn’t available. Tier Three advice counts toward your monthly consultation.
What are the costs associated with the Everyday Law Plan™?
Monthly Subscription Fee: A flat fee (see our fee schedule) is charged on the 1st of each month to reserve firm resources.
One-Time Setup Fee: A non-refundable administrative fee is required upon signing up.
Additional services, such as extra consultations, jury trial fees, or motions for continuance, incur separate fees per our fee schedule. Court fines and costs are not covered.
Can the subscription fee change?
Yes, we may adjust the subscription fee or other charges with 30 days’ written notice. You can cancel your subscription before the changes take effect if you do not agree to the new terms. Continued participation after the notice period indicates acceptance of the updated fees.
What happens if I miss a payment?
If you miss a monthly payment, complimentary services will be suspended until payment is received, and you may need to pay a new setup fee. Two consecutive missed payments may result in permanent suspension of services.
How can I cancel my subscription?
You can cancel the Everyday Law Plan™ at any time by providing written notice to Labor Advocate Law Firm, PLLC. You remain responsible for any unpaid fees accrued up to the cancellation date.
What if I have a complaint or issue with the firm?
We are committed to ethical practice and client satisfaction. If you have a concern, please contact us directly to resolve it. If you’re still unsatisfied, you can reach the State Bar of Texas Grievance Information Helpline at 1-800-932-1900 or submit a grievance online at www.texasbar.com/grievance.
CLASS C MISDEMEANOR DEFENSE
If I have to attend a court hearing, how long does court last?
If you have to attend a court hearing, expect to be there for a few hours as some courts move cases quickly while others take longer. For example, if your case is on an 8:00 a.m. docket, it will usually be resolved or rescheduled by noon, though sometimes it can go into the afternoon. Always let your attorney know if you have time limits, and they will try to handle your case as quickly as possible.
What do I need to bring to court on a traffic ticket case?
Bring any paperwork related to your ticket, like proof of insurance, vehicle registration fixes, a picture of your front license plate or fixed brake light, or toll payment records, to support your case. If helpful, bring pictures and diagrams. If you think something might help your case, bring it with you.
How many times will I have to go to court on traffic ticket case?
We try to keep court visits minimal, but sometimes cases must be rescheduled. You will discuss all options with your lawyer if this happens.
What do I wear to court?
Wear business or business-casual clothes to court. Shirts should have sleeves. Avoid shorts and hats.
When I go to court on my traffic ticket case, will I have to speak to anyone other than my attorney?
No. After you check into court, your attorney will speak for you unless you both decide otherwise.
I missed my court date on my ticket. Now what?
If you miss your court date, you risk additional charges and a possible arrest warrant. Our services end if you miss court, but you can contact us to see if you can be rehired. Fee to rehire is listed on the fee schedule.
I can’t attend court setting. What do I do?
If you can’t attend a court date, contact us immediately. We can file a motion for continuance and the court will decide whether or not it will allow the case to be rescheduled. Some courts require several days’ notice. Last-minute requests often require proof of emergency. Fee for drafting and filing a motion for continuance is listed on the fee schedule.
I hold a commercial drivers license and I got a traffic ticket. Can you represent me?
Yes. If you hold a commercial driver’s license, we can represent you for traffic tickets.
TEXAS WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING
What is a will, and why do I need one?
A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets (e.g., property, money, personal belongings) distributed after your death, as governed by the Texas Estates Code. It also allows you to name an executor to manage your estate and, if applicable, guardians for minor children. Under the Everyday Law Plan™, our Texas attorneys can prepare or review a simple will using standard templates during your monthly consultation, ensuring your wishes are documented under Texas law. Without a will, Texas intestacy laws determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your preferences.
What makes a will valid in Texas?
For a will to be valid in Texas, it must meet the requirements of Texas Estates Code § 251.051: it must be in writing, signed by the testator (you, the person making the will), and witnessed by at least two credible witnesses over 14 years old who sign the will in your presence. Alternatively, a holographic (handwritten) will, entirely in your handwriting and signed by you, may be valid without witnesses. During your Everyday Law Plan™ consultation, our attorneys can provide general advice to ensure your simple will complies with these rules, though we do not provide probate representation under the plan.
What is a power of attorney, and how can LALF help?
A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes someone (your “agent”) to act on your behalf for financial, medical, or other decisions, as outlined in Texas Estates Code Chapter 751 (durable powers) and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 166 (medical powers). The Everyday Law Plan™ includes complimentary preparation or review of basic powers of attorney using our standard templates. Our Texas attorneys can guide you during your monthly consultation to ensure these documents meet your needs under Texas law, but complex or customized documents may require additional fees.
What is the difference between a durable and medical power of attorney?
A durable power of attorney (Texas Estates Code § 751) allows your agent to manage your financial and legal affairs, such as paying bills or selling property, and remains effective even if you become incapacitated. A medical power of attorney (Texas Health and Safety Code § 166.152) authorizes your agent to make healthcare decisions if you’re unable to do so. The Everyday Law Plan™ covers preparation or review of basic versions of both using standard templates, with general guidance from our attorneys. Complex scenarios may require a separate agreement.
Can LALF help me name a guardian for my children in my will?
Yes, under the Everyday Law Plan™, our attorneys can assist you in including a provision in your simple will to name a guardian for your minor children, as permitted by Texas Estates Code § 1104. A guardian is someone who would care for your children if you pass away. During your monthly 30-minute consultation, we can provide general advice on selecting a guardian and ensuring the provision complies with Texas law. This service is limited to standard templates, and complex guardianship issues may require additional services.
What happens if I die without a will in Texas?
If you die without a will (intestate), Texas intestacy laws (Texas Estates Code Chapter 201) determine how your assets are distributed, typically to your closest relatives (e.g., spouse, children, or parents) based on a statutory formula. This may not reflect your wishes. The Everyday Law Plan™ helps you avoid this by offering complimentary preparation or review of a simple will, with guidance from our Texas attorneys to ensure your assets are distributed as you intend, within the plan’s limited scope.
Can LALF assist with updating or reviewing an existing will?
Yes, the Everyday Law Plan™ includes complimentary review of an existing simple will to ensure it aligns with Texas law and your current wishes. Our attorneys can provide general advice during your monthly consultation or use our standard templates to prepare an updated simple will. However, complex revisions or amendments (e.g., codicils for significant changes) may incur additional fees, and we do not provide representation in probate or litigation under the plan.
What kind of will preparation is included in the Everyday Law Plan™?
The Everyday Law Plan™ includes complimentary preparation or review of a simple will using Labor Advocate Law Firm’s standard templates. This service provides general guidance to help you outline your wishes for distributing your assets under Texas law. Complex wills, such as those involving trusts or intricate estate planning, are not covered and may require additional fees or a separate retainer agreement. As a real client of our Texas law firm, you’ll receive personalized advice from our attorneys during your monthly consultation to ensure your simple will meets Texas requirements, such as being signed by you and two witnesses.
Can LALF help me understand Texas requirements for a valid will?
Yes, during your monthly 30-minute consultation, our attorneys can provide general legal advice about Texas will requirements. Under Texas Estates Code § 251.051, a will must be in writing, signed by the testator (you), and witnessed by at least two credible witnesses over 14 years old who sign in your presence. We can guide you on these requirements and review your simple will for compliance, but we do not provide filing or representation in probate proceedings under the Everyday Law Plan™.
Does the Everyday Law Plan™ include powers of attorney for estate planning?
Yes, the plan covers complimentary preparation or review of basic powers of attorney (e.g., durable or medical powers of attorney) using our standard templates. These documents allow you to appoint someone to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf, as permitted under Texas Estates Code Chapter 751 (for durable powers) and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 166 (for medical powers). Our attorneys can discuss these during your monthly consultation, but complex or customized powers of attorney may incur additional fees.
What are the limitations of estate planning services under the Everyday Law Plan™?
The Everyday Law Plan™ is limited to general advice and assistance with basic documents like simple wills and powers of attorney. It does not include complex estate planning (e.g., trusts, tax planning, or special needs planning), probate representation, or litigation. If you need these services, we can provide referrals to specialists, and you may need a separate retainer agreement for additional work. As a real client of LALF, you’ll benefit from our Texas attorneys’ guidance within the plan’s scope.
Can LALF advise me on how to avoid probate in Texas?
During your monthly consultation, our attorneys can provide general information about avoiding probate in Texas, such as using beneficiary designations for bank accounts or life insurance, joint tenancy with right of survivorship, or simple transfer-on-death deeds for real property (allowed under Texas Estates Code § 114). However, the Everyday Law Plan™ does not include preparing complex probate-avoidance tools like trusts or representing you in probate court. We can guide you on basic strategies and refer you to specialists for advanced planning if needed.
LALF LAWYER CONSULTATIONS
What topics can I ask my law firm about?
You may ask your lawyer any question you think he or she could help with. However, without sufficient information provided beforehand, the lawyer may be limited. Also, the lawyer may have general knowledge about your question but may not be an expert and may only be able to advise of your rights generally. For the best use of your consultation time, please provide LALF as much information up front as possible.
Can I go over 30 minutes?
No, your subscription plan includes a 30-minute consultation for each legal issue. We keep these sessions focused and on schedule so that all clients receive timely service.
If you’d like more time, no problem—you can always book an additional consultation. Extra sessions are available at the rates listed in our À La Carte Services and Fee Schedule, which you’ll find attached to your Subscription Agreement.
How can I get more than one consultation per month?
Each subscription plan includes one 30-minute consultation per month. Additional consultations are not included in the monthly subscription fee. However, clients may schedule additional consultations as needed, which will be billed separately in accordance with the À La Carte Services and Fee Schedule attached to your Subscription Agreement.
Are the consultations in person, by telephone, or zoom?
Most consultations are held over the phone for your convenience. If your situation requires it—and depending on your attorney’s availability—we may also arrange to meet in person or connect via Zoom.
If I have a consultation with a lawyer, am I “represented” by that lawyer?
Not automatically. Your subscription includes a 30-minute consultation to answer your legal questions and talk through your situation, but this does not mean the firm will represent you in court or provide a defense.
If your matter requires full legal representation, our attorneys will either (1) offer you a separate Representation Agreement if we can take your case, or (2) connect you through our referral program with trusted law firms we partner with. Please note, we cannot guarantee that the referred firms will agree to take your case.
How can I schedule a consultation?
Scheduling is simple! First, you must be a client of the firm and a subscriber to the Everyday Law Plan. Once a client, you can book your 30-minute consultation by using our online scheduling system or by calling our office directly.
Injury cases are different. If you’ve been injured—whether in a car accident, at work, or elsewhere—you don’t need to book in advance, and you don’t need to be on our Everyday Plan. We’re ready to listen right away and get you the fastest help possible, especially in emergencies. Just call us directly at the number listed on our website, and we’ll connect you immediately.
LETTER DRAFTING SERVICES
Why are professional letters important?
In a world of email and text message bombardments, professional letters communicate seriousness and urgency. The way a letter is written and formatted can give credibility to the author. Also, in some situations, email or text messages do not comply with legal notification requirements. TWhether you need to demand repairs from a landlord or assert important legal rights, it is important to know and understand how to put those properly in writing.
What help do I get with letter drafting under the Everyday Law Plan™?
With the Everyday Law Plan™, our attorneys and legal support staff will assist you with the correct formatting, structure, and language to be used in a professional letter. Our attorneys can also inform you of your rights and advise you on how to articulate and assert those rights. The recipient of the letter will get the impression that you are serious, informed, and willing to take next steps to protect your rights or interest.
What are the elements of a professional letter?
A professional letter should be on the “letterhead” of the sender, including an address and other contact information (such as email or phone number) to reach the sender. The letter should include a date, a subject line and a “salutation”. In most professional letters, the salutation will read “Dear Ms. ___” or “Dear Mr. ____” followed by a colon : and not a comma ,. The next element is the body, which should contain an introductory sentence which summarizes or roadmaps the rest of the letter for the reader. Demands, requests, or further instructions will begin and conclude the professional letter. After the message has been communicated, the author will include a sign-off; usually “Sincerely,” followed by a signature. Below the sign-off, the letter should include “CC” with a reference to any persons receiving copies of the letter and “Encl.” if the letter includes enclosures. Clients with access to the Everyday Law Plan™ receive complimentary assistance with all elements of a professional letter.
What does CC, PC, and Encl. mean in a letter?
In simple terms, CC stands for carbon-copy, a reference to the somewhat antiquated method of copying an original letter. This designation is still understood to mean a copy is being sent to the person or organization named. Likewise, EC means electronic copy. It is a newer version of CC indicating a copy is sent by email or other electronic means. Both are acceptable in professional letters. “Encl.” is shorthand for enclosures, meaning another document is being sent in the same envelope as the letter.