Where To Find Divorce Lawyers
Assuming you have not before now, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you will want to seek the services of legal counsel. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a variety of answers to popular along with important questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the case occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining a lawyer away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Talk about that question with each lawyer consulted.
2. QUESTION: How may I make sure my attorney is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients - month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you're wise to often review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your attorney and the other party/counsel. In addition feel comfortable getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you'll likely be billed for these communications.
3. QUESTION: How do I pick an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the best practice is to research your area of need and research what attorneys are around to work with you. A referral from someone you know and admire can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is selected. Look into the lawyer's background of education, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek out legal guidance now. Documents filed in court that begin a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a "pre-suit" period that allow you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is advised.
5. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the case present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is usually required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.
6. QUESTION: What type of legal professional do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any lawyer should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the need to speak with another in a specialised area.
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