What You Don t Know About Divorce Lawyers

In case you have not before now, probably sometime in your lifetime you'll have to retain a lawyer. With the help of my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here's a group of responses to typical along with imperative questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal assistance right away. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that enable you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law 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 knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider 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 conducted. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge of the mediation evenly but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in a few precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or inform you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialized area.


5. QUESTION: How am I able to be sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you are wise to occasionally review the docket and see what events have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal problems are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what legal professionals are around to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but shouldn't be the singular reason counsel is chosen. Research the attorney's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with exactly the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a medical doctor, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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