Shocking Information About Divorce Lawyers Exposed
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In the instance that you haven't already, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you will have to retain legal counsel. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here's a selection of answers to basic and imperative questions.
1. QUESTION: How may I make sure my attorney is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer accounts for his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a statement of how the lawyer bills his clients - up front, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that available, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what changes have taken place by your attorney and the other party/counsel. Also feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be charged for these interactions.
2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the case occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other jurisdictions and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the county courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney outside the area wherein the matter takes place is cost of journey time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.
3. QUESTION: How do I determine if I will need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to look for legal assistance without delay. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit call for responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period that enable you to take into account the legal issues and potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer at the earliest opportunity is recommended.
4. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the case present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or a number of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is typically required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.
5. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in a few specific areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker's compensation. Any attorney should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or inform you of the need to speak with another in a specialized area.
6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal issues are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complicated. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to investigate your area of need and research what lawyers are out there to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and respect can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer's background of schooling, 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 limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a doctor, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.
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