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What is your retainer fee?
The retainer fee is determined by the issues in the case, a contested versus uncontested matter. The fee will be discussed in your consultation.
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What do I do if I am served with a divorce petition?
If served with an original petition for divorce, you should seek the advice of an attorney immediately, if you do not already have one. You only have 20 days from the date you were served to file an answer to the Court, otherwise your Spouse may obtain a default judgment against you.
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How do I set up a consultation (in person or telephonically)?
Call (407) 425-8878, extension 1, for the firm's scheduling assistant.
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Can I speak to and/or email an attorney before they are hired for advice?
No. All appointments, telephonically or in person, are made through the Scheduling assistant.
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What should I be doing to prepare myself if served or is serving divorce papers?
1. Knowing your assets and liabilities is a start. Make sure you have copies of financial statements (savings, checking, investments, etc.). Have copies of important documents, payroll records, insurance, etc.
2. Determining your monthly expenses (household, children, auto, etc.)
3. Evidence of any issues that are significant to your divorce (domestic violence, child related issues, documents, etc.)
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Is a trial necessary?
90% of cases that our firm represent, settle without a trial. This is accomplished in several ways and if the parities are reasonable.
1. Mediation: Mediation involves a neutral third party, who assists both sides to come to a resolution of the matter. The Court requires the parties to mediate before having the matter be heard. If mediation is successful, the mediator or attorney, will draft an Agreement, the parties sign and it is filed with the Court. If this settles all matters, then a Final Judgment is entered at a final hearing. If mediation is not successful, then we set the matter before the Court.
2. Collaborative Law: A new approach to handling family law matters. The method is that the attorneys for the parties agree to assist in resolving conflict using cooperative problem-solving strategies and without court proceedings. An agreement is signed that states all parties agree to negotiate in good faith and if this attempts fails, the attorneys must withdraw from the case and the clients will have to hire new counsel.
3. Settlement Conferences: Should your case fail at mediation, settlement conferences between the parties and their attorneys will occur during the course of your case and if an agreement is reached, a Settlement Agreement is drafted, signed by the parties, filed with the court and a final hearing is scheduled.
