She Strengthens

A Rocky Start to 2021: Navigating Unexpected Expenses

This year has gotten off to a tumultuous start for many of us. Instead of a fresh beginning, 2021 feels like an extension of last year’s challenges. My personal experience is a prime example. January kicked off with a legal dispute with my landlord, forcing me to hunt for a new apartment while juggling a busy schedule.

The Uninhabitable Repairs Debacle

Just a few days after Christmas, my landlord informed me that our kitchen would be inaccessible for 6-7 weeks due to mandatory pipe repairs in the building. This meant no running water, no cooking, and a significant COVID risk with multiple construction workers entering our unit daily. My roommate and I wanted out, but our lease didn’t allow for an easy exit. We proposed solutions like rent forgiveness and a credit for food and laundry expenses, but our landlord refused and hired a lawyer instead.

The Financial Fallout

I’ve had to hire a lawyer, incurring an unexpected and costly expense. The rushed move, security deposit on a new place, and stress have all taken a toll on my budget. To make matters worse, I recently started a new job with a significant pay cut, which was necessary for my mental health and career growth. However, these expenses were not part of the plan.

The Silver Lining: Emergency Savings and a Helpful Referral

Fortunately, I had emergency savings to fall back on. I’ve also been able to save some money thanks to a lawyer referral from a friend. The referred law firm charged a lower hourly rate of $300, compared to the typical $500. What’s more, I didn’t need to pay a retainer fee upfront. This has allowed me to retain my money until the services are rendered, which is unusual in this practice.

Lessons Learned: Be Prepared and Know Your Worth

If you ever find yourself in need of a lawyer, I recommend being prepared for every conversation. Know exactly what you want to discuss, have all necessary documents ready, and make the most of your time. I’ve been preparing a file thirty minutes ahead of scheduled calls with my lawyer, which has helped keep our conversations concise and efficient.

Settling Early and Reducing Fees

I’ve also learned the importance of settling early to reduce attorney fees. Prolonging negotiations only increases costs, making it essential to know your worth and be willing to compromise. By cutting short negotiations and working towards a final agreement, I’ve been able to minimize my expenses and regain some control over my budget.

A Rocky Start, But Lessons Learned

This year has already taught me valuable lessons about resilience, budgeting, and the importance of being prepared. While I’m grateful for the emergency savings and helpful referral, I’m looking forward to a quieter, more predictable future.