What You Don t Know About Divorce Lawyers

In case you have not previously, probably sometime in a lifetime you'll need to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here's a listing of answers to common and worthwhile questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal guidance immediately. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that enable you to think about the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer at the earliest opportunity is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers don't charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: What exactly 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 selected mediator to try and resolve all or some of the issues involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the charge 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 just about every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you 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 associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any attorney can go over your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.


5. QUESTION: How am I able to make sure my lawyer is handling my issues?
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 - monthly, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you're wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer 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.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as perplexing. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to study your area of need and research what attorneys are accessible to assist you. A referral from someone you know and admire can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but really should not be the sole reason counsel is selected. Look into the lawyer's background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but can also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the pick of a doctor, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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