Where To Find Divorce Lawyers
In the instance that you have not previously, chances are that sometime in your own lifetime you'll need to hire legal counsel. With the help of my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a group of answers to common along with worthwhile questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter is being litigated is important as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the county courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One matter in retaining an attorney outside the area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some lawyers don't charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Talk about that question with each lawyer consulted.
2. QUESTION: How may I be certain my lawyer is resolving my case?
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 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 occurred by your attorney and the other party/counsel. Also feel comfortable contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be billed for these communications.
3. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as perplexing. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice is to investigate your area of need and research what law firms are around to help you. A recommendation from somebody you know and regard can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an law firm but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer's background of training, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a physician, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal advice immediately. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that allow you to think about the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is advised.
5. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators should 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 structure of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in 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 industries, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several unique areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any lawyer should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialized area.
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