Where To Find Divorce Lawyers
In the event that you have not by now, chances are that sometime in your life you'll have to hire an attorney. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, what follows is a list of responses to common and worthwhile questions.
1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to find legal guidance right away. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that enable you to take into account the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is advised.
2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is important as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring legal counsel outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
3. QUESTION: What exactly 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 chosen mediator to try and solve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties 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. Generally the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is typically required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial attorneys handle 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 very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, like worker's compensation. Any lawyer should be able to talk about your particular issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialized area.
5. QUESTION: How may I make sure my lawyer is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - monthly, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you're wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable contacting your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, knowing you'll likely be billed for these interactions.
6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as complicated. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are accessible to help you. A referral from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but shouldn't be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Research the lawyer's background of training, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.
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