Where To Find Divorce Lawyers
Assuming you have not already, chances are that sometime in your lifetime you will have to employ a lawyer. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here is a listing of responses to frequent and fundamental questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney at law in the county where the case occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is essential as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the county courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.
2. QUESTION: How can I make sure my lawyer is working on my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer contract should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients - up front, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what events have occurred by your attorney and the other party/counsel. In addition feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, knowing you'll likely be billed for these interactions.
3. QUESTION: Exactly how do I pick an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complex. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are out there to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can add a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Research the attorney's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a physician, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal guidance immediately. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as quickly as possible is recommended.
5. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.
6. QUESTION: What kind of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in a few precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle 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 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 or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialized area.
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