Want To Know More About Divorce Lawyers

In case you haven't already, probably sometime in a lifetime you will have to hire legal counsel. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, what follows is a number of answers to common as well as important questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to look for legal guidance immediately. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing 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 think about the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based 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 level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining a lawyer outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers don't charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the problems involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is usually required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialize in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any attorney should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialised area.


5. QUESTION: How am I able to be certain my attorney is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients - once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you're wise to routinely 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 contact with your lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal matters are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to study your area of need and research what law firms are around to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but should not be the only reason counsel is picked. Research the attorney's background of education, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical professional, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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