What You Don t Know About Divorce Lawyers Could Be Costing More Than You Think

If you haven't by now, probably sometime in a lifetime you'll need to employ an attorney. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here's a list of responses to popular as well as fundamental questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I want to hire an attorney in the county where the case occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter is being litigated is important as that attorney will have a comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring a lawyer away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don't charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Talk about that question with each lawyer consulted.

2. QUESTION: How can I make sure my attorney is working on my case?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the attorney 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 available, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have occurred by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. Also feel at ease getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be charged for these interactions.

3. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as complex. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to study your area of need and research what lawyers are accessible to help you. A referral from somebody you know and regard can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an law firm but really should not be the singular reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer's background of education, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I determine if I need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to find legal assistance now. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that allow you to think about the legal issues and potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is recommended.

5. QUESTION: Precisely 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 selected mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

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

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