Want To Step Up Your Divorce Lawyer You Need To Read This First

Assuming you haven't already, chances are that sometime in your life you'll have to employ an attorney. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, what follows is a selection of responses to frequent as well as fundamental questions.

1. QUESTION: How can I make certain my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer contract should include a statement of how the attorney bills his clients - in advancemonthly, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that available, you're wise to periodically review the docket and see what events have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. Also feel comfortable getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you'll likely be billed for these interactions.

2. QUESTION: Do I want to hire an attorney at law in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is essential as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the county courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring a lawyer away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers don't charge for travel, others give you a lowered rate or preserve 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 lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek legal advice without delay. Documents filed in court that begin a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a "pre-suit" period of time that enable you to consider the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is advised.

4. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Typically 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 generally required in just about every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

5. QUESTION: What kind of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide 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 complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker's compensation. Any attorney should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialized area.

6. QUESTION: How do I pick an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal topics are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to study your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an attorney but really should not be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Research the attorney's background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the pick of a doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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