What You Don t Know About Divorce Lawyers Could Be Costing More Than You Think
From EjWiki
Assuming you have not already, probably sometime in your own lifetime you'll need to seek the services of legal counsel. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here is a list of responses to frequent and important questions.
1. QUESTION: Do I have 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 knowledge in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is essential 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 outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don't charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
2. QUESTION: How may I be sure my lawyer is working on my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer accounts for his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer contract should include a statement of how the attorney bills his clients - in advancemonthly, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what changes have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be charged for these communications.
3. QUESTION: Exactly how do I pick an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal issues are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complex. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to research your area of need and research what lawyers are available to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but really should not be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Look into the attorney's background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but can also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the pick of a physician, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
4. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek legal guidance now. 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 of time that enable you to consider the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is advised.
5. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire 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 ahead of the conference. Mediation is normally required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
6. QUESTION: What type of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may specialize in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.
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