Shocking Information About Divorce Lawyers Exposed
In the case you haven't already, chances are that sometime in your own life you'll need to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, what follows is a listing of answers to very common along with important questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other jurisdictions and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring an attorney away from area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others give you a lowered rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.
2. QUESTION: How may I make certain my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a statement of how the attorney bills his clients - once a month, quarterly, etc. You can also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the issue, understanding you'll likely be charged for these communications.
3. QUESTION: Just how do I pick an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the best practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what law firms are out there to help you. A recommendation from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but really should not be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Look into the lawyer's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I determine if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that enable you to think about the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is recommended.
5. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the issues involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining 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 ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.
6. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may specialize in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker's compensation. Any attorney can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to speak with another in a specialized area.
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