Winning the lottery is something most people only dream of. However, for the significantly small percentage of people fortunate enough to achieve such aims, they often quickly obtain life-changing amounts of money.
That said, however, this incredible stroke of luck comes with heavy responsibility. Failing to exercise certain legal and financial precautions could result in financial ruin and many other untoward occurrences.
Luckily, these possible perils might be avoided by contacting an experienced lottery lawyer.
Legal and financial professionals firmly urge jackpot winners to contact an experienced lottery attorney soon after or possibly even prior to going public about their winnings. Engaging in such action often reap benefits such as:
1- Avoiding Tax Troubles
When one achieves any type of financial windfall, they enter a new and higher tax bracket. This is because winning the lottery means the lucky individual will enjoy far greater income than they previously earned.
An experienced lottery lawyer can inform sweepstakes winners about the tax liabilities they will incur.
2- Asset Protection
Most people have heard a variation of an old expression claiming that money brings people out of the proverbial woodwork. For many lottery winners, this adage rings true. Individuals like creditors, long-lost family members, friends offering tremendous tales of woe, and countless other people often emerge looking to get a piece of the proverbial pie.
A reputable, well-versed lottery attorney can help protect a jackpot winner’s assets and prevent said subjects from being taken by demanding or, in some cases, unscrupulous persons.
3- Achieving Anonymity
Some lottery winners might opt to remain anonymous. In many cases, winners of large sweepstakes or jackpots receive an appreciable amount of media attention. Said notoriety could increase their chances of garnering unwarranted attention or even becoming crime victims.
Fortunately, the State of Texas enables lottery winners to remain anonymous. Experienced lottery attorneys can help those seeking anonymity go through the proper legal channels necessary to accomplish said goal.
4- Creating A Reputable Professional Network
Oftentimes, lottery winners require the services of skilled subjects other than lawyers. Fortunately, many attorneys boast relationships with financial professionals such as accountants and financial planners.
These individuals build their reputation and earn their living by offering sound advice geared towards ensuring their clients financial futures. Association with such entities protects lottery winners from scammers and other criminal elements.
5- Proper Money Management
Many lottery winners were not wealthy prior to the fortuitous occasion. Therefore, obtaining large sums of money quickly could lead to frivolous spending and a rapid depletion in savings.
Experienced lottery attorneys can help clients establish conservative spending plans and either help them make wise investments or guide them to financial professionals capable of executing said tasks.
6- Peace Of Mind
As joyful as accumulating wealth can be, said event can also be scary. Numerous changes occur and a great degree of uncertainty often sets in. A reputable lottery lawyer can provide a client peace of mind.
After winning the lottery, your first thought might be of how you will spend your money, but instead, your first thought should be of finding a lawyer that will help you make the right decisions on how to best protect your lottery winnings.