Shhhh... Listen Do You Hear The Sound Of Divorce Lawyers
From EjWiki
If perhaps you have not before now, probably sometime in your lifetime you'll have to retain the services of a lawyer. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a number of answers to frequent and fundamental questions.
1. QUESTION: How may I be certain my attorney is working on my case?
ANSWER: Every good attorney accounts for his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the attorney 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 occasionally review the docket and see what changes have occurred by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, knowing you'll likely be billed for these interactions.
2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the case occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other jurisdictions and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a comfort level with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining an attorney away from area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don't charge for travel, others give you a lowered rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.
3. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek out legal guidance right away. Documents filed in court that start a lawsuit call for responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period that allow you to think about the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as soon as possible is recommended.
4. QUESTION: What 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 selected mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is normally required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
5. QUESTION: What kind of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in a few unique areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any attorney should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to handle such matters or inform you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialised area.
6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to study your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to help you. A referral from someone you know and admire can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an law firm but shouldn't be the sole reason counsel is picked. Research the attorney's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a physician, accountant, financial expert or therapist.
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