Unbiased Report Exposes The Unanswered Questions On Divorce Lawyers

Assuming you have not before now, chances are that sometime in your life you will have to retain the services of an attorney. Thanks to my consultation with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a number of responses to frequent as well as important questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to find legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some concerns 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 immediately is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney at law in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a comfort level with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney outside the area wherein the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don't charge for travel, others offer a lowered rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

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


5. QUESTION: How am I able to be sure my attorney is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - monthly, 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 are wise to occasionally review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. It's also advisable to feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complicated. To protect your rights and remedies, the best practice would be to study your area of need and research what attorneys are around to help you. A referral from someone you know and regard can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but should not be the sole reason counsel is selected. Research the attorney's background of education, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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