Why Have A Divorce Lawyer

If perhaps you haven't already, chances are that sometime in your own life you will have to hire a lawyer. With the help of my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here's a number of responses to frequent along with imperative questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I want to hire an attorney in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is important as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney away from area in which 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 carried out. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.

2. QUESTION: How may I be certain my lawyer is working on my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - up front, quarterly, etc. You may even track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. In addition feel at ease getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.

3. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal topics are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complex. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the best practice is to research your area of need and research what lawyers are available to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the decision to hire an attorney but shouldn't be the only reason counsel is chosen. Look into the lawyer's background of training, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek out legal advice now. Documents filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve specific deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" time period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is recommended.

5. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the case present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the problems involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

6. QUESTION: What kind of legal professional do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, attorneys may specialize in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in a few unique areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any lawyer can go over your particular issue, determine if he or she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialised area.

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