Why Everybody Is Talking About Divorce Lawyers...The Simple Truth Revealed

In the instance that you have not by now, chances are that sometime in your own life you will need to hire a lawyer. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here's a selection of responses to common and imperative questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek out legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit call for responses that involve exact deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that allow you to consider the legal issues and probable 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 in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is essential as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining a lawyer outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed site with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on 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 stay impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements might 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 type of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in a few unique 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; some are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any attorney can discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is prepared 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 certain my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients - once a month, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you're wise to occasionally review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice is to research your area of need and research what lawyers are accessible to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and respect can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an attorney but should not be the sole reason counsel is selected. Research the lawyer's background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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