What You Don t Know About Divorce Lawyers
In the case you have not by now, chances are that sometime in your own lifetime you'll need to retain an attorney at law. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here's a group of answers to typical as well as important questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other jurisdictions 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 lawyer will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring legal counsel outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others offer a lowered rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
2. QUESTION: How may I be certain my lawyer is handling my case?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a statement of how the lawyer bills his clients - month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You can also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you're wise to often review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you'll likely be charged for these communications.
3. QUESTION: Precisely how do I pick an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as perplexing. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the very best practice is to study your area of need and research what legal professionals are around to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and regard can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is picked. Research the attorney's background of education, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I determine 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 seek out legal assistance right away. Documents filed in court that begin a lawsuit require responses that involve exact deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a "pre-suit" period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is advised.
5. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the case present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.
6. QUESTION: What type of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several precise areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle almost all 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 go over your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.
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