Divorce Lawyers - An In Depth Anaylsis On What Works And What Doesn t

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If perhaps you have not already, chances are that sometime in your own life you will want to seek the services of an attorney. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, below is a group of answers to basic as well as important questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney in the county where the problem 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 essential as that attorney will have a comfort level with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring a lawyer outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don't charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.

2. QUESTION: How will I make certain my lawyer is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - once a month, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you're wise to often review the docket and see what events have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the matter, understanding you will likely be charged for these communications.

3. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal difficulties are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to research your area of need and research what attorneys are available to work with you. A recommendation from someone you know and regard can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but really should not be the only reason counsel is chosen. Look into the lawyer's background of training, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to find legal advice immediately. Documents filed in court that begin a lawsuit call for responses that involve particular deadlines; missing those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit 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 suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is recommended.

5. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or some of the issues involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge 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 before a trial is held.

6. QUESTION: What type of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in a few specific areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker's compensation. Any lawyer should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialized area.

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