The phrase refers to finding a authorized skilled specializing in instances involving accidents inflicted by canines in proximity to at least one’s present location. A person would possibly make use of this search time period following an incident the place they sustained a wound from a canine and require authorized help to pursue compensation for medical bills, misplaced wages, or different damages. For instance, an individual bitten whereas strolling of their neighborhood might seek for such knowledgeable to discover their authorized choices.
Figuring out a professional authorized consultant in shut geographical proximity provides a number of benefits. It permits for handy in-person consultations, facilitates simpler doc alternate, and doubtlessly ensures a lawyer acquainted with native ordinances and court docket procedures associated to animal management and legal responsibility. Traditionally, the pursuit of authorized recourse after a canine chew has been a posh course of, necessitating the engagement of attorneys well-versed in each private harm legislation and particular state or municipal rules regarding animal possession and duty.
The next sections will delve into the components to contemplate when deciding on acceptable authorized counsel, the standard steps concerned in a canine chew declare, and the assets out there to assist people navigate this difficult state of affairs, specializing in easy methods to discover the appropriate skilled to signify their pursuits.
1. Expertise
Expertise serves as a cornerstone when searching for certified authorized illustration in canine chew instances. The phrase “finest canine chew legal professional close to me” inherently implies a seek for competence, and expertise is a main indicator of such competence. An legal professional’s years in observe, the amount of comparable instances dealt with, and the outcomes achieved straight correlate with their skill to navigate the complexities of canine chew legislation. For instance, an legal professional who has efficiently litigated quite a few instances involving particular breeds recognized for aggression possesses a demonstrable benefit over one with restricted publicity to such eventualities. The causal hyperlink between expertise and profitable case decision is clear; seasoned attorneys are higher outfitted to anticipate defenses, negotiate settlements, and current compelling arguments in court docket.
The significance of expertise extends past mere case quantity. It encompasses a deep understanding of related statutes, precedents, and native court docket procedures. An skilled legal professional is prone to have cultivated relationships with professional witnesses, similar to animal behaviorists or medical professionals, whose testimony can considerably strengthen a declare. Moreover, skilled counsel understands the nuances of insurance coverage firm ways and may successfully counter their methods to reduce payouts. Contemplate a state of affairs the place an inexperienced legal professional accepts a low settlement supply with out totally assessing the long-term medical wants of the shopper; an skilled legal professional would acknowledge and tackle such potential pitfalls.
In abstract, when evaluating potential authorized illustration in a canine chew incident, expertise needs to be a paramount consideration. It provides a tangible measure of an legal professional’s capabilities and their potential to attain a positive final result. Whereas different components, similar to specialization and status, are additionally vital, expertise supplies a essential basis for efficient authorized advocacy. Ignoring this side might result in suboptimal illustration and an unfavorable decision of the case.
2. Specialization
The seek for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me” necessitates an intensive consideration of authorized specialization. A common observe lawyer might lack the nuanced understanding of animal management legal guidelines, negligence ideas particular to canine possession, and medical elements of chew accidents essential for optimum case illustration. Specialization, due to this fact, turns into a essential filter in figuring out certified counsel.
-
Particular Information of Canine Chew Legislation
Attorneys specializing in canine chew instances possess in-depth data of related statutes, case legislation, and native ordinances regarding animal legal responsibility. This consists of understanding leash legal guidelines, “one-bite” guidelines, and strict legal responsibility doctrines. As an example, in jurisdictions with strict legal responsibility, the proprietor is liable for damages no matter prior data of the canine’s aggressive tendencies. A specialised legal professional can successfully leverage this data to construct a robust case.
-
Familiarity with Medical Points of Chew Accidents
Canine chew accidents can vary from minor lacerations to extreme trauma requiring in depth medical therapy, together with cosmetic surgery and psychological counseling. A specialised legal professional is acquainted with the potential long-term medical penalties and may precisely assess the worth of the declare to account for future medical bills, ache, and struggling. This data additionally facilitates the engagement of acceptable medical consultants to assist the case.
-
Expertise in Negotiating with Insurance coverage Corporations
Insurance coverage firms typically make use of ways to reduce payouts in canine chew claims. A specialised legal professional has expertise negotiating with these firms and understands their methods. They will successfully advocate for his or her shopper’s pursuits and be certain that the settlement adequately compensates for all damages. This consists of realizing when to reject an insufficient supply and proceed to litigation.
-
Understanding of Animal Conduct and Skilled Testimony
In some instances, understanding the canine’s habits and the circumstances resulting in the chew is essential. A specialised legal professional may go with animal habits consultants to research the incident and decide the proprietor’s negligence. This experience may be significantly helpful in instances the place the canine’s historical past or coaching is related to establishing legal responsibility.
In conclusion, specialization in canine chew legislation considerably enhances the chance of securing competent and efficient authorized illustration. Whereas proximity is an element, prioritizing an legal professional’s specialised data and expertise can result in a extra favorable final result in a canine chew declare. The time period “finest canine chew legal professional close to me” ought to, due to this fact, be interpreted as “finest specialised canine chew legal professional close to me.”
3. Status
Within the context of figuring out the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me,” status serves as a essential indicator of competence, moral requirements, and shopper satisfaction. It’s a synthesis of previous efficiency {and professional} conduct, providing helpful perception into an legal professional’s seemingly effectiveness in dealing with a selected case.
-
On-line Opinions and Rankings
On-line platforms present a readily accessible supply of knowledge relating to an legal professional’s status. Opinions and scores from earlier purchasers supply direct suggestions on their experiences, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. Persistently constructive critiques, significantly these mentioning profitable case outcomes and shopper communication, recommend a good legal professional. Conversely, a excessive quantity of adverse critiques ought to immediate additional investigation.
-
Skilled Recognition and Awards
Recognition from authorized organizations, similar to inclusion in lists of top-rated legal professionals or receipt {of professional} awards, can validate an legal professional’s status. These accolades typically replicate peer critiques, unbiased evaluations of authorized expertise, and contributions to the authorized group. Whereas not the only real determinant, skilled recognition serves as an goal measure of an legal professional’s standing inside their discipline.
-
Bar Affiliation Standing and Disciplinary Historical past
An legal professional’s standing with the native bar affiliation and their disciplinary historical past present essential perception into their moral conduct. A clear report with no disciplinary actions demonstrates adherence to skilled requirements. Conversely, any historical past of disciplinary actions, similar to suspensions or reprimands, raises considerations about their trustworthiness and moral habits. Publicly out there data from the bar affiliation can reveal such disciplinary issues.
-
Referrals from Different Professionals
Referrals from different attorneys, medical professionals, or trusted advisors signify a helpful endorsement. These referrals typically stem from direct expertise working with the legal professional or data of their experience {and professional} integrity. Suggestions from established professionals inside the group carry vital weight, suggesting a excessive stage of respect and confidence within the legal professional’s skills.
Finally, an intensive evaluation of status, encompassing on-line critiques, skilled recognition, bar affiliation standing, and referrals, supplies a multifaceted understanding of an legal professional’s capabilities and character. Within the pursuit of the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me,” prioritizing these with demonstrable constructive reputations will increase the chance of securing competent, moral, and efficient authorized illustration.
4. Proximity
Proximity, inside the context of looking for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me,” represents greater than mere geographical comfort. It embodies a posh interaction of things influencing communication, accessibility, and familiarity with native authorized landscapes. Its relevance extends past ease of journey to embody deeper issues pertinent to efficient authorized illustration.
-
Ease of Communication and Session
Proximity facilitates simpler and extra frequent in-person consultations. These conferences are essential for establishing rapport, discussing case particulars, and reviewing paperwork. Common face-to-face interactions can improve understanding and foster a stronger attorney-client relationship. As an example, discussing complicated medical reviews associated to chew accidents is usually more practical in particular person than through telephone or e mail. The implications of enhanced communication are extra profound understanding of the nuances, and belief.
-
Accessibility and Responsiveness
A close-by legal professional is usually extra accessible and attentive to pressing wants. Fast entry is crucial when coping with time-sensitive issues similar to submitting deadlines or gathering proof. An legal professional positioned shut by can extra simply go to the scene of the incident or meet with native witnesses, resulting in a extra thorough investigation. In flip, the impact ensures responsiveness, and complete authorized assist throughout essential moments.
-
Familiarity with Native Courts and Procedures
Attorneys practising within the native space are sometimes extra acquainted with the particular procedures and nuances of the native courts. This data can present a definite benefit in navigating the authorized system, as they’re acquainted with native judges, court docket employees, and prevailing authorized precedents. For instance, an legal professional acquainted with the native animal management ordinances is best positioned to argue a case successfully. This supplies native insights, and environment friendly navigation of the authorized system.
-
Understanding of Native Neighborhood and Surroundings
An legal professional embedded in the area people is extra prone to perceive the group’s values, attitudes, and demographics, which might affect jury perceptions and case outcomes. They might even be extra acquainted with related native assets, similar to medical specialists or animal habits consultants. The impact is enhanced cultural consciousness, and a extra persuasive presentation of the case to the native jury.
In conclusion, whereas components similar to expertise and specialization stay paramount, proximity performs a big function in shaping the effectiveness of authorized illustration. A close-by legal professional provides benefits in communication, accessibility, native authorized data, and group understanding, all contributing to a extra environment friendly and doubtlessly profitable final result. Subsequently, proximity is just not merely a comfort, however a strategic consideration within the seek for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.”
5. Communication
Efficient communication kinds a essential cornerstone within the attorney-client relationship, significantly when searching for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” The flexibility of the legal professional to obviously articulate authorized methods, potential outcomes, and the complexities of canine chew legislation straight impacts the shopper’s understanding and confidence within the illustration. Conversely, the shopper’s capability to convey particulars of the incident, medical historical past, and private influence is crucial for the legal professional to construct a compelling case. As an example, a shopper struggling to speak the psychological trauma ensuing from a extreme canine chew might profit from an legal professional who proactively elicits such data by way of empathetic and clear questioning. This, in flip, allows the legal professional to successfully current the emotional damages to a jury or insurance coverage adjuster.
The frequency and modalities of communication are additionally vital. A responsive legal professional who promptly returns calls, solutions emails, and supplies common updates on the case progress fosters belief and reduces shopper anxiousness. That is significantly essential in canine chew instances, the place purchasers could also be coping with bodily ache, emotional misery, and monetary considerations associated to medical payments and misplaced wages. Contemplate a state of affairs the place an legal professional fails to speak for prolonged intervals, leaving the shopper unsure concerning the standing of their case and their authorized choices; this could result in mistrust and in the end undermine the attorney-client relationship. Conversely, proactive communication builds a robust basis for a collaborative and profitable authorized partnership.
In conclusion, the standard and frequency of communication should not merely ancillary elements of authorized illustration however are integral elements of securing the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” Clear, empathetic, and responsive communication empowers purchasers to actively take part of their case, fosters belief and confidence, and in the end contributes to a extra favorable final result. Neglecting this important factor can considerably hinder the legal professional’s skill to successfully signify the shopper’s pursuits and obtain justice. The legal professional’s communication talent is a direct reflection of their dedication to the shopper’s well-being and the pursuit of a simply decision.
6. Charges
The consideration of authorized charges is inextricably linked to the pursuit of the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” An legal professional’s charge construction straight influences entry to authorized illustration and the final word monetary final result of a canine chew declare. Understanding these charge preparations is essential for people searching for competent authorized counsel with out incurring undue monetary burden. As an example, a contingency charge association, the place the legal professional receives a proportion of the settlement or award, aligns the legal professional’s monetary pursuits with the shopper’s success. This construction may be significantly helpful for people who can’t afford upfront authorized prices, because it permits them to pursue a declare with out incurring speedy bills. The correlation between reasonably priced charges and entry to high quality authorized illustration is clear: affordable charge buildings allow a broader vary of people to hunt justice following a canine chew incident.
Nevertheless, the bottom charge doesn’t routinely equate to the “finest” legal professional. A considerably lowered charge might point out an absence of expertise, assets, or dedication to the case. Attorneys who supply considerably decrease charges than their friends could also be reducing corners in investigation, professional witness session, or trial preparation, in the end compromising the shopper’s possibilities of success. Conversely, excessively excessive charges can erode the shopper’s monetary restoration, even when the legal professional achieves a positive settlement. Subsequently, a cautious analysis of the legal professional’s charge construction, alongside their expertise, specialization, and status, is crucial. Sensible software dictates that people ought to inquire about all potential prices, together with submitting charges, professional witness charges, and different bills, to make sure transparency and keep away from surprising monetary burdens. A transparent and well-defined charge settlement protects each the legal professional and the shopper, fostering a reliable and productive working relationship.
In abstract, authorized charges are a central consideration within the seek for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” Whereas affordability is vital, it shouldn’t be the only real determinant. A balanced method that considers the legal professional’s charge construction at the side of their experience, status, and communication expertise is crucial for securing competent authorized illustration and maximizing the monetary restoration in a canine chew declare. Challenges come up when people prioritize value over competence, doubtlessly resulting in suboptimal outcomes. The important thing perception is that knowledgeable decision-making, based mostly on a complete analysis of all related components, ensures entry to high quality authorized illustration with out undue monetary pressure.
7. Sources
The provision of adequate assets straight influences an legal professional’s capability to successfully signify purchasers in canine chew instances, thus enjoying a vital function in figuring out the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” An legal professional’s useful resource pool encompasses monetary capital, professional networks, investigative assist, and technological infrastructure. Sufficient monetary backing permits for thorough case investigation, together with securing professional witness testimony from medical professionals or animal behaviorists. A strong community of consultants supplies specialised data essential for establishing legal responsibility and quantifying damages. Funding in superior expertise, similar to authorized analysis databases and case administration software program, streamlines the authorized course of and enhances effectivity. As an example, an legal professional missing the monetary assets to seek the advice of with a veterinary professional might battle to show {that a} canine’s aggressive habits stemmed from improper coaching. Sources should not merely ancillary; they’re instrumental in constructing a compelling case and attaining favorable outcomes.
The size and complexity of a canine chew case typically dictate the assets required. Circumstances involving extreme accidents, a number of defendants, or novel authorized points demand extra in depth investigation and professional evaluation. An legal professional with restricted assets could also be pressured to compromise on these essential elements, doubtlessly jeopardizing the shopper’s possibilities of success. Contemplate a state of affairs the place an legal professional can’t afford to rent knowledgeable investigator to assemble proof from the scene of the incident or interview potential witnesses. This deficiency might end result within the lack of essential data that might in any other case strengthen the case. In distinction, an legal professional with entry to those assets can conduct a extra complete investigation, uncover essential proof, and construct a extra persuasive authorized argument. Correct resourcing may be the distinction between successful and shedding a case, particularly when going through well-funded insurance coverage firms. The understanding ensures the highest quality within the course of.
In conclusion, assets are a pivotal part in evaluating the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” The legal professional’s monetary power, professional community, investigative capabilities, and technological infrastructure straight influence their skill to successfully signify purchasers and safe favorable outcomes. People searching for authorized illustration ought to inquire concerning the legal professional’s assets and contemplate this issue alongside expertise, specialization, and status. Selecting an legal professional with enough assets ensures that the case is dealt with completely and professionally, maximizing the potential for a profitable decision. The absence of such assets can current vital challenges and doubtlessly compromise the shopper’s finest pursuits. So, deciding on an legal professional with a transparent and convincing set of these assets is vital.
8. Case Analysis
When searching for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me,” an intensive case analysis is a elementary preliminary step. This evaluation determines the viability of a possible authorized declare and guides subsequent strategic choices. The legal professional’s skill to conduct a complete case analysis is a key indicator of their competence and suitability for illustration.
-
Preliminary Evaluation of Legal responsibility
The preliminary case analysis focuses on establishing legal responsibility. This includes analyzing the circumstances of the canine chew incident to find out whether or not the canine proprietor was negligent or violated any relevant legal guidelines, similar to leash legal guidelines. For instance, if a canine was unleashed in a prohibited space and bit somebody, this will likely set up negligence on the a part of the proprietor. The legal professional’s experience in related statutes and case legislation is essential on this dedication, which straight influences the choice to pursue authorized motion.
-
Analysis of Damages
A complete case analysis consists of an evaluation of the damages incurred by the sufferer. This encompasses medical bills, misplaced wages, ache and struggling, and potential long-term penalties similar to scarring or emotional trauma. The legal professional should precisely quantify these damages to find out the potential worth of the declare. As an example, an in depth assessment of medical data and session with medical consultants could also be essential to assess the extent of the accidents and related prices. Correct harm evaluation is crucial for negotiating a good settlement or pursuing litigation.
-
Evaluation of Out there Insurance coverage Protection
The case analysis additionally includes figuring out and assessing out there insurance coverage protection. This may occasionally embrace the canine proprietor’s house owner’s insurance coverage coverage or different related insurance coverage insurance policies. The legal professional should decide the coverage limits and any potential exclusions that will influence the declare. For instance, some insurance policies might exclude protection for sure canine breeds or for incidents occurring off the proprietor’s property. Understanding the out there insurance coverage protection is essential for figuring out the monetary feasibility of pursuing the declare and maximizing potential restoration.
-
Strategic Planning and Steering
Based mostly on the preliminary evaluation of legal responsibility, damages, and insurance coverage protection, the legal professional supplies strategic steering to the shopper. This consists of outlining the potential authorized choices, explaining the dangers and advantages of every possibility, and growing a plan of motion. As an example, the legal professional might advocate making an attempt to barter a settlement with the insurance coverage firm earlier than pursuing litigation. Clear and knowledgeable steering empowers the shopper to make knowledgeable choices and actively take part within the authorized course of.
In conclusion, a complete case analysis is an indispensable step in figuring out the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” The legal professional’s skill to completely assess legal responsibility, damages, insurance coverage protection, and supply strategic steering straight influences the viability and potential success of the declare. People searching for authorized illustration ought to prioritize attorneys who reveal a dedication to conducting a rigorous and informative case analysis.
9. Trial File
An legal professional’s trial report is an important determinant when searching for the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me.” A demonstrable historical past of success in court docket signifies an legal professional’s proficiency in litigation, a essential talent ought to settlement negotiations fail. A constructive trial report is just not merely a group of victories; it displays a complete understanding of authorized technique, proof presentation, and courtroom process. As an example, an legal professional with a historical past of securing favorable verdicts in canine chew instances demonstrates a functionality to successfully persuade a jury of the canine proprietor’s legal responsibility and the sufferer’s damages. The sensible consequence of a robust trial report is elevated leverage throughout settlement negotiations, because the opposing social gathering acknowledges the legal professional’s willingness and talent to litigate the case efficiently.
The absence of a considerable trial report doesn’t routinely disqualify an legal professional, however it warrants cautious consideration. Some attorneys might concentrate on pre-trial settlements, attaining favorable outcomes for his or her purchasers with out resorting to litigation. Nevertheless, an absence of trial expertise might point out a restricted skill to deal with complicated or contentious instances that require courtroom advocacy. Subsequently, when evaluating the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me,” potential purchasers ought to inquire concerning the legal professional’s expertise in each settlement negotiations and courtroom trials. A balanced method, combining negotiation expertise with litigation experience, is usually the simplest technique for maximizing the possibilities of a positive final result. Authorized representatives can discuss with their profitable instances that contain related circumstances, or related accidents with increased awards for comparability.
In abstract, an legal professional’s trial report is a big think about assessing their suitability to deal with a canine chew case. A confirmed observe report of success in court docket demonstrates competence in litigation and enhances negotiating energy. Whereas settlement expertise are helpful, the power to successfully advocate for a shopper in a courtroom is crucial, significantly when settlement is just not attainable. Contemplating an legal professional’s trial report, at the side of different components similar to expertise, specialization, and status, supplies a complete foundation for choosing the “finest canine chew legal professional close to me” and maximizing the potential for a constructive decision.
Incessantly Requested Questions Relating to Canine Chew Attorneys
The next addresses widespread inquiries relating to the choice and retention of authorized counsel specializing in canine chew instances.
Query 1: What constitutes a canine chew harm necessitating authorized illustration?
A canine chew leading to vital medical bills, everlasting scarring, disfigurement, emotional trauma, or misplaced wages warrants consideration of authorized counsel. Minor accidents might not justify the expense of authorized illustration.
Query 2: How does one confirm an legal professional’s specialization in canine chew instances?
An legal professional’s web site, skilled profile, and shopper testimonials typically point out specialization. Direct inquiry relating to the proportion of their observe devoted to canine chew instances and profitable outcomes can be advisable.
Query 3: What data ought to one collect previous to consulting with a canine chew legal professional?
Pertinent data consists of images of the accidents, medical data, police reviews, contact data for witnesses, and particulars relating to the canine’s proprietor and their insurance coverage supplier.
Query 4: What are the standard prices related to retaining a canine chew legal professional?
Many canine chew attorneys function on a contingency charge foundation, that means their charge is a proportion of the settlement or award obtained. Shoppers ought to inquire about this proportion and any related bills, similar to submitting charges or professional witness prices.
Query 5: How lengthy does one must file a canine chew declare?
Statutes of limitations differ by jurisdiction. It’s crucial to seek the advice of with an legal professional promptly to find out the relevant statute of limitations and keep away from forfeiting authorized rights.
Query 6: What recourse is out there if the canine proprietor lacks insurance coverage protection?
Choices might embrace pursuing a declare towards the canine proprietor’s private property or searching for compensation by way of uninsured motorist protection, if relevant. An legal professional can consider these choices based mostly on the particular circumstances of the case.
The previous data supplies a common overview and shouldn’t be thought of authorized recommendation. Consulting with a professional legal professional is crucial for acquiring recommendation tailor-made to particular person circumstances.
The subsequent part will define steps in a typical canine chew declare.
Canine Chew Declare Navigation Suggestions
The next suggestions are offered to help people in navigating the complexities of canine chew claims. The following pointers intention to supply readability and path throughout a difficult authorized course of.
Tip 1: Doc the Incident Completely: Following a canine chew, meticulous documentation is paramount. This consists of taking images of the accidents, the situation of the incident, and the canine concerned. File contact data for any witnesses current. Thorough documentation supplies essential proof for establishing legal responsibility.
Tip 2: Search Instant Medical Consideration: Immediate medical analysis is crucial for each well being and authorized causes. Medical data function goal proof of the extent of accidents and can be utilized to substantiate the declare for damages. Adhere to all medical suggestions and doc all therapy acquired.
Tip 3: Report the Incident to Animal Management: Reporting the canine chew to native animal management authorities ensures that the incident is formally recorded and investigated. Animal management might impound the canine to evaluate its habits and decide if it poses a continued menace to the group.
Tip 4: Keep away from Contact with the Canine Proprietor or Insurance coverage Firm With out Authorized Counsel: Direct communication with the canine proprietor or their insurance coverage firm can jeopardize the declare. Insurance coverage adjusters might try and elicit statements that undermine the sufferer’s case. Chorus from offering any statements or signing any paperwork with out first consulting an legal professional.
Tip 5: Perceive the Statute of Limitations: Every jurisdiction has a selected statute of limitations for submitting private harm claims, together with canine chew instances. Failure to file a lawsuit inside this timeframe will end result within the forfeiture of authorized rights. Seek the advice of with an legal professional to find out the relevant statute of limitations and guarantee compliance.
Tip 6: Protect All Proof: Protect all proof associated to the canine chew incident, together with clothes worn on the time of the incident, medical payments, and any correspondence with the canine proprietor or their insurance coverage firm. Correct proof preservation strengthens the case and maximizes the potential for a positive final result.
The following pointers supply steering within the preliminary levels of a canine chew declare. Authorized counsel can present further help in assessing every people declare.
The next sections will present assets.
Navigating the Path to Justice
This exploration has illuminated the essential components in deciding on acceptable authorized illustration following a canine chew incident. The time period “finest canine chew legal professional close to me” encapsulates a multifaceted seek for competence, expertise, specialization, and native experience. People pursuing such authorized counsel should prioritize a complete analysis encompassing status, assets, communication expertise, and documented trial report. Diligence in these areas ensures knowledgeable decision-making and maximizes the potential for a positive final result.
The pursuit of justice for canine chew victims necessitates a proactive and discerning method. Engagement with certified authorized counsel empowers people to navigate the complexities of canine chew legislation, shield their rights, and search acceptable compensation for accidents sustained. The long-term influence of a canine chew may be vital; due to this fact, securing the very best authorized illustration is an important step in direction of restoration and guaranteeing accountability. Prioritize knowledgeable choices and safe acceptable authorized illustration to safeguard rights and obtain justice.