Where To Find Divorce Lawyers

In the instance that you have not already, chances are that sometime in your life you will need to hire legal counsel. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, below is a selection of responses to popular along with important questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek legal guidance without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit call for responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that enable you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is advised.

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

3. QUESTION: What exactly 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 some of the problems involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge 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 prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, 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 a few unique areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any lawyer should be able to discuss your particular issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialized area.


5. QUESTION: How can I be sure my attorney is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation 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 accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to occasionally review the docket and see what events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It's also advisable to feel at ease getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal difficulties are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to study your area of need and research what law firms are out there to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and respect can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an attorney but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Look into the attorney's background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the pick of a physician, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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