Do You Need A Divorce Lawyer
Assuming you haven't before now, probably sometime in a lifetime you'll have to employ an attorney at law. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a group of answers to common as well as worthwhile questions.
1. QUESTION: How will I make certain my lawyer is handling my case?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer contract should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - once a month, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you're wise to periodically review the docket and see what events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. In addition feel at ease contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you'll likely be charged for these communications.
2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other jurisdictions and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter will be litigated is important as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Talk about that question with each attorney consulted.
3. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to find legal advice right away. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve exact deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that allow you to think about the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is recommended.
4. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and solve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
5. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any lawyer can go over your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.
6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I pick an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal matters are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to investigate your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to help you. A referral from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an attorney but really should not be the sole reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer's background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the pick of a physician, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.
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