What You Should Do To Find Out About Divorce Lawyers Before You re Left Behind

Assuming you haven't already, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you will need to seek the services of an attorney at law. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, listed here is a listing of answers to very common as well as fundamental questions.


1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise 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 suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring a lawyer outside the area wherein the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what 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 decided on mediator to try and solve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is typically required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several unique 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 most matters. Some areas of law are extremely complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any attorney should be able to talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the need to speak with another in a specialized area.


5. QUESTION: How can I be certain my attorney is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation 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 periodically review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other sectors, 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 investigate your area of need and research what attorneys are available to work with you. A referral from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an law firm but shouldn't be the only reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with exactly the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a physician, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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