How To Get A Divorce Lawyer
If you have not already, probably sometime in your life you'll need to hire an attorney. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, this is a variety of answers to popular as well as fundamental questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel away from area wherein the matter takes place is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don't charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work conducted. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.
2. QUESTION: How can I make sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - up front, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you are wise to often review the docket and see what events have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable contacting your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you'll likely be billed for these communications.
3. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal matters are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complex. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to study your area of need and research what legal professionals are out there to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and regard can add a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but shouldn't be the singular reason counsel is chosen. Research the lawyer's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I determine if I need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit require responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that enable you to think about the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as soon as possible is recommended.
5. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed location 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 parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements may 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 just before a trial is held.
6. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in a few precise areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any attorney should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialised area.
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