Where To Find Divorce Lawyers

If you haven't before now, probably sometime in your lifetime you will need to seek the services of a lawyer. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a group of answers to frequent and imperative questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to seek legal guidance right away. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that enable you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer at the earliest opportunity is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based upon 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 comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining an attorney outside the 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.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is normally required in just about every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide 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 associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any lawyer should be able to go over your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialized area.


5. QUESTION: How am I able to make sure my attorney is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement 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 established, you are wise to occasionally review the docket and see what events have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you'll likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal issues are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to study your area of need and research what lawyers are around to work with you. A recommendation from someone you know and regard can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but really should not be the exclusive reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer's background of education, 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 legal professional should be contemplated with the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a medical doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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