Parental Kidnapping

What to do if you fear Parental Kidnapping:

If you are afraid that the other parent will take your children away without your consent, you need to take action immediately. You should meet with an attorney to see if you might be able to ask the judge to issue an emergency temporary restraining order. This type of court order will ensure that you have recourse if the other parent takes the child without your consent. The order may include that the other parent cannot take the children out of the state, or that the other parent may only have supervised visitation.

If you are in the middle of a custody case, and you fear that the other parent may take your child to another country, you may be able to ask the judge to seize the child's passport. If there is no ongoing case, you may be forced to file the earlier mentioned temporary restraining order, if you qualify, and ask the judge to hold the child's passport as part of that case.

If the child does not have a passport but you fear the other parent may apply for one for the child, the State Department has a program called the Children's Passport Issuance Alert Program. The program is explained as follows:

"The Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program (CPIAP) is one of the Department’s most important tools for preventing international parental child abduction. The program allows parents to register their U.S. citizen children under the age of 18 in the Department’s Passport Lookout System. If a passport application is submitted for a child who is registered in CPIAP, the Department contacts and alerts the parent or parents. The passport lookout system gives all U.S. passport agencies as well as U.S. embassies and consulates abroad an alert on a child’s name if a parent or guardian registers an objection to passport issuance for his or her child. This procedure provides parents advance warning of possible plans for international travel with the child."See the State Department's Child Abduction Prevention page for more information.

You should take note, that if your child has dual citizenship, then s/he may be able to travel out of the country on the passport issued by the foreign country. The State Department cannot regulate passports from a different country, so you may want to contact that country's embassy or consulate to ask if they have a similar program. You will find contact information for embassies and consulates at www.travel.state.gov under Country Specific Information on the top right-hand corner of the screen.

If you or someone you know is going through a situation involving the potential for child abduction and simply want to implement the necessary precautions, contact an attorney today. Don't wait until it's too late!

Memorial Day Weekend

Happy Memorial Day weekend, everyone!  We will never forget those who have fallen fighting for our freedom.

Remember, this weekend is particularly notorious for law enforcement being out in full force.  Know your rights and your responsibilities.  Everyone have a safe and wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

A Warm Welcome

Justin Jones Law would like to extend a very warm welcome to the newest member of our law firm team, Mr. Erich Jerscheid. Mr. Jerscheid is a law student at Mississippi College School of Law and will be joining us as a Law Clerk. We are honored to have him as a part of our team. Welcome aboard!

Check out our new website!

Hello Everyone!

I hope you all are having a wonderful week so far! Just a quick update to let you all know our new law firm website is up & running. We've made the website much more convenient for you to utilize and navigate. Go have a look!

You may access our website by clicking here.

Beware of the Inexperienced Attorney

Unfortunately, the economy has forced many attorneys to take on clients with cases in areas of law they would otherwise not have ever considered. Often times, they are attempting an area of law vastly different from what they typically practice. Although the ethical rules do not prohibit an attorney from taking cases in practice areas that are not familiar to them, a wise decision when seeking legal representation is to hire an attorney that practices in the area of law of your problem.

Legal scenarios are as unique as everyone’s lives, and it takes time to develop the experience and expertise to properly address the nuances of each case. There is no one defining characteristic of a good attorney, and great attorneys come from all walks of life.

Making sure your attorney has the necessary experience to handle your case is more important now than ever since there are so many attorneys in the field. Mistakes can be devastating, and are easily avoided by choosing the right attorney for your particular case. A good attorney has dedicated themselves to the field, and has the track record and reputation to prove their skills to be successful.

Good attorneys can think on their feet, asses the uniqueness of each situation, and come up with a legally sound strategy that protects your children, your assets, and your future as best as possible, while simultaneously ensuring that you comply with the law.

Justin Jones Law is dedicated to serving your needs, and assessing your personal situation to provide you with the most effective and best legal representation. For a free consultation or case evaluation, call our legal team today at 601-499-5292, or visit our website www.JustinJonesLaw.com

Black Farmers Settlement - Video - WAPT Jackson

Justin Jones Law is currently representing individuals in the Black Farmers Settlement litigation. If you or someone you know may have a claim, or questions about your rights, please give us a call at 601-499-5292 for a free case evaluation.

You may watch the video below provided by WAPT, and also click on the link below that will guide you to the webpage with more information regarding the Black Farmers Settlement.

Video: Black Farmers To Get Settlement - Video - WAPT Jackson

Click here for the webpage with more information regarding Black Farmers Settlement.

Sneak Preview of the New Firm

Hallway leading into waiting/ rest area with filing room in the background
More seating area in an office
The Main Office of Attorney Justin Jones
Decor and, Law Clerk, Lindsay Bethea's Certified Notary Public Accreditation
Candelabra in the hallway outside of the kitchen area
Waiting/ Rest Area
Attorney Justin Jones hard at work, while his Law Clerk snaps photos.

Foyer

These pictures are just a sneak preview into the new firm location. We now have four spacious offices, a foyer/rest area, a conference room, kitchen area & restroom, and the determination to make your law firm experience comfortable, pleasurable, and one of a kind. As always, we guarantee quality representation and genuine concern. We are on a constant quest for improvement, expertise, and meeting your personal needs at Justin Jones Law.

Justin Jones Law: New Firm Location

We have now reached our 1 year law firm anniversary, and are finally settled into our new location.  The new firm is much more spacious, convenient, and designed with you, our clientele, in mind. Justin Jones Law offers the boutique law firm experience, and it is our goal to provide you with comfort and reassurance while we pay careful attention to your case.  Our offices may be expanding, but our motto remains to provide you with the quality representation and genuine concern you deserve.  

 612 Highway 51, Suite B, Ridgeland, MS 39157

www.JustinJonesLaw.com

601-499-LAW2

The new firm is in the Allegrezza Piano shopping center on Highway 51 in Ridgeland, MS next to Protea Dekor, Blue Boutique, and Crawdaddy's. Please call us today to set up your free consultation at 601-499-5292., or visit our website at www.JustinJonesLaw.com  

Child Support: What Parents Need to Know

Cases involving money, divorce, and children can be the most painful and emotional of all. Child support cases involve all three of these issues and therefore the table is set for an emotionally charged proceeding. Parents involved in a child support case, whether as a custodial parent or a non-custodial parent, should be aware of laws to protect yourself and prepare for any potential changes in your situation. Knowing the laws and the responsibilities of each party can help alleviate and avoid potential conflicts. Paying child support is a very serious responsibility and the courts do not take the responsibility lightly. Unwillingness to pay child support can result in a wage withholding order against your salary and even land you in jail. It is important to note that a parent’s responsibility to pay child support is to the child and does not extend to the not to the ex-spouse or other parent. Therefore, a change in marital status by either party or the birth of additional children in a subsequent marriage may not affect the original obligation. In addition, a custodial parent cannot deny visitation to the other parent for any reason, including late support payments. In Mississippi, child support responsibilities usually end when the child turns 21 years of age, gets married, enters the military, or becomes self-supporting. In some instances, when the child reaches the age of 18 and forgoes full-time enrollment in school, cohabits with another person without the approval of the paying parent or is incarcerated for more than 2 years the court can decide to suspend the parents child support obligation. All of the described scenarios encompass what is known as emancipation. A paying parent can also seek a reduction in their child support payments if their salary decreases or there is an inability to pay. Conversely, the court may order an increase in child support payments if the salary increases substantially. Although the presumption favoring the mother has eroded and the case law of Mississippi has placed the father on a level plating field, most divorce courts award custody of any children to the mother. As the custodial parent, the mother has the legal responsibility to assure that all the father’s child support payments benefit the child, not herself. It is important to note that any and all modifications to a child support arrangement must take place through the courts and not by a verbal agreement between the parties. A mother may ask the courts for additional support money from the father as the child ages, to adjust for inflation, or because of a child’s increased medical expenses. While awareness of the finer points of the law are important, a mother and father should remember above all else that each has a moral and legal responsibility to their child. The law recognizes that just as both mother and father were involved in the creation of the child, both parents, should actively participate in the support and care of that child. You should always seek advice from an experienced Mississippi Family Law Attorney that specializes in Child Support and Child Custody.

Happy New Year!

Wishing everyone happiness, prosperity, and many blessings in 2012.

Remember that law enforcement is out in full force on holidays.

Drink responsibly and make sure to use a sober driver.

What To Do: When You Have a Run-In with Police

Especially during the holidays we see the presence of police increase, as well as arrests, and run-ins with law enforcement. This post serves to provide tips for interacting with police, understanding your rights, and what to do when faced with an arrest or possible arrest.

Your Rights in a Nutshell:

• You have the right to remain silent. If you wish to exercise that right, you need to say soclearly, and out loud.
• You have the right to refuse to consent to a search of yourself, your car, or your home.
• If you are not under arrest, you have the right to calmly & quietly leave.
• You have the right to an attorney if you are arrested. Ask for one immediately.

Tips to Follow:

• Stay calm and be polite.
• Do not interfere with or obstruct the police.
• Do not lie or give false documents.
• Prepare yourself and your family in case you are arrested.
• Remember the details of the encounter.
• File a written complaint if you feel your rights have been violated.
• Contact an Attorney immediately. I cannot stress this enough. Time is of the essence.

If Police Stop You For Questioning:

You should remain calm, and do not run from or try to evade the police. Do not argue, resist or obstruct the police, even if you are innocent or feel that the police are violating your rights. Keep your hands where police can see them. This is a safety precaution and also shows cooperation and respect of the police.

You should ask if you are free to leave. If the officer says yes, you should calmly and silently walk away. If you are under arrest, you have a right to know why. You have the right to remain silentand cannot be punished for refusing to answer questions. If you wish to remain silent, tell the officer out loud and make sure that it is clear and understood. Do not offer any excuses or reasons as to why you would like to exercise your right to remain silent. You do not have to consent to a search of yourself or your belongings, but police may "pat down" your clothing if they suspect a weapon. Do not physically resist, but know that you have the right to refuse consent for any further search.

If you do consent to search of any type, it can and will affect you later in court. It is in your best interests to refuse consent to any search without a warrant.

If Your Are Stopped In Your Car:

You should stop the car in a safe place as quickly as possible. Turn off the car, turn on the internal light, open the window part way and place your hands on the wheel. Be prepared to show police your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance. If an officer asks to look inside your car, you have the right to refuse to consent to the search. But if police believe your car contains evidence of a crime, your car can be searched without your consent.

Both drivers and passengers have the right to remain silent. If you are a passenger, you can ask if you are free to leave. If the officer says yes, sit silently or calmly leave. Even if the officer says no you are not free to leave, you still have the right to remain silent.

If The Police Come To Your Home:

If the police come to your home, you do not have to let them in unless they have a warrant. You should immediately ask to see the warrant for inspection. Ask the officer to slip the warrant under the door or hold it up to the window so you can inspect it. A search warrant allows police to enter the address listed on the warrant, but officers can only search the areas specified on the warrant and for the items listed. An arrest warrant allows police to enter the home of the person listed on the warrant if they believe the person is inside. Even if officers have a warrant, you have the right to remain silent.

If you choose to speak to the officers, you should step outside and close the door behind you, not inviting them inside. Please remember, it is always in your best interest to exercise your right to remain silent, ask for an attorney, and refuse consent to any search without a warrant.

If You Are Arrested:

Although it may be difficult in a confrontational type situation, remember how important it is to remain calm, polite, and as cooperative as possible. Your responses, demeanor, and actions will only help the police build a case against you, even if they never had one.

Never resist an arrest, even if you believe it is unfair. This could lead to more charges against you and more problems overall. Clearly tell the officers that you choose to exercise your right to remain silent, and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not offer any explanations or excuses. If you can't afford an attorney, you will be provided one. Do not say anything, sign anything, or make any decisions without your attorney present. You have the right to make a phone call. The police cannot listen if you call an attorney.

An arrest can happen unexpectedly, so prepare yourself and your family in case of an arrest.Memorize phone numbers of your family and your attorney. Make emergency plans if you have children or take medication in the event of an unexpected arrest.

Remember, police misconduct cannot be challenged on the street. Never physically resist officers or threaten to file a complaint. This will only add to the situation and provoke the officers. You should always remain calm and cooperative. Being in control of yourself and being respective of the police can only help your case.

Write down everything you remember, including officers' badge and patrol car numbers, which agency the officers were from, and any other details. Get contact information for witnesses. If you are injured you should immediately seek medical attention, and take photographs of your injuries. File a written complaint with the agency's internal affairs division or civilian complaint board. It is imperative to contact an qualified and experienced attorney immediately so that you may receive legal advice and expertise catered to your specific situation.

*This information is not intended as legal advice. State laws may vary.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Wishing you all peace, love, and joy this holiday season.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from all of us at Justin Jones Law!

Exciting News!

Exciting news, all!

We are approaching our one year law firm anniversary, and with that we are incredibly blessed to be expanding our law firm, both internally and externally. We are excited and pleased to announce that we have moved to a new, larger, more central location on Highway 51 in Ridgeland, MS. Thank you all for your support, and Justin Jones Law will continue to provide you with quality representation and genuine concern.

Visit our website for more information, or call us today to set up your free consultation. 601-499-5292

Child Custody: How Does the Court Decide?

Child Custody: How Does the Court Decide?

All child custody cases bring about tremendous emotional turmoil for the parties involved and most people feel like they have to "win." However, no one wins in these cases and the number one concern should always be with the children and what is in their best interest. The best interest of the children is always the main concern of the court and an outcome that preserves this interest will allays prevail.

Best Interest Factors:

Although the "best interest" standard can be hard to define in some situations, some factors are common in "best interest" analyses in most custody situations:

• Wishes of the child (if old enough to capably express a reasonable preference)
• Mental and physical health of the parents
• Religion and/or cultural considerations
• Need for continuation of stable home environment
• Support and opportunity for interaction with members of extended family of either parent
• Interaction and interrelationship with other members of household
• Adjustment to school and community
• Age and sex of child
• Parental use of excessive discipline or emotional abuse
• Evidence of parental drug, alcohol or sexual abuse.

Child custody has proven to be the most conflicted and serious aspect of any divorce or family law proceeding. When the judge considers custody issues, the resounding question is "What is the best interest of the child?"

Keep in mind that both parents have equal rights to the child, so a judge considers several factors in custody matters. Some of these include the health and sex of the child, the primary caregiver prior to the divorce, parenting skills and willingness to care for the child, the emotional ties between child and parent, and each parent's moral fitness.

Other examples of the considerations the court will consider include, the age of the child, a parent's employment that involves long absences from home, immoral conduct of a parent, and differences between the parents in financial position, religion, personal values, and lifestyles. While any of the foregoing may be a strong reason to base the custody decision, judges must look at the whole picture in determining what is in the best interest of the child.

Often times, child has a preference as to the particular parent hero she would like to reside with and a child age 12 or above may tell the judge his or her preference for custody if the court considers both parents fit. However, the Judge is not bound by the child's preference. The Court recognizes that a child may not know what is in his or her best interest and may be basing their decision on which household is more fun or less strict.

In a custody proceeding a judge awards both physical and legal custody. Physical custody is where the child actually lives. Legal custody gives a parent the decision-making authority concerning the child's health, education and welfare. The judge may grant either or both custody designations to both parents, one parent, or a third party.

If one parent receives physical and legal custody, the judge grants visitation rights to the other parent, unless it is not in the child's best interest. Typically, visitation will only be restricted or supervised in extreme cases or where the child has been subjected to abuse.

A third party receives custody only when the court finds that it is in the best interest of the child because of the parents' abandonment, immorality, mental problems, or other reasons harmful to the child. Grandparents receive no special consideration over other third parties in these cases, but they may petition the court for visitation rights in situations of divorce, termination of parental rights, or the death of one of the parents.

Once ruled, a judge is reluctant to change custodial rights because of the disruptive affect on the child. For the judge to consider a change, the non-custodial parent must prove a significant change in circumstances has had an adverse impact on the child.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact an experienced Mississippi family law attorney.

Divorce: What Are The Basics?

Divorce: What Are The Basic Steps?

Divorce laws will vary by state, but these are the basic steps and procedures one can expect to encounter in Mississippi:

First, you need to research local attorneys that specialize in divorce. Make sure you specifically research divorce attorneys and seek background information. Seeking counsel from an attorney that does not specialize in divorce or family law will prove to be detrimental. Once you have found a qualified Mississippi divorce attorney, you can expect you case to proceed in the following manner, keeping in mind that all cases are different and will never be exactly the same and produce the same outcome as one you have heard about from friends, family or TV.

1. You or your spouse must meet the 6 month residency requirements of the state of Mississippi, meaning you must have lived in Mississippi for at least 6 months.

2. You must have “grounds” (a legally acceptable reason) to end your marriage, in Mississippi there are 12 fault grounds . If you do not have grounds for divorce, then you can file what is called a "Joint Complaint". A Joint Complaint means you and your spouse agree that the two of you should be divorced, and is Mississippi's version of a "no fault" divorce. If the joint complaint route is taken, the court requires a 60 day "reflection period" before the divorce can be finalized.

3. Your attorney will advise you of the best way to proceed, prepare your case, and file the appropriate divorce papers with the court.

4. If your spouse disagrees with anything in the divorce papers, then they will have the opportunity to file papers telling their side,which will be considered “contesting the divorce.” If contested, you may have a series of court appearances to sort out the issues. Also, if a certain period of time passes and your spouse does not sign the papers or file any papers of their own, you may be able to proceed with the divorce as an uncontested divorce anyway. (Your lawyer will be able to advise you on how long you have to wait to see if your spouse answers before you can continue with the divorce).

5. If there is property, assets, a pension, debts, or anything else that you need divided, or if you need financial support from your spouse, then these issues may have to be dealt with during the divorce or else you may lose your chance to deal with these issues. The issues may be worked out during settlement negotiations, and incorporated into the divorce decree or in a series of court hearings during the divorce.

6. If there are any children born of the marriage, then child custody, child support and visitation will have to be determined as well.

Divorce and all of the issues that come along with it can be stressful and emotionally draining . If you or someone you know are dealing with divorce, you should seek the advice from a Mississippi attorney who practices family law, so that the burden and stress can be reduced.

Does Your Child Support Order Need To Be Modified?

Child support is commonly known as a court-ordered amount of
money that a non-custodial parent must pay to the other parent to compensate for a certain amount of a child’s expenses. There is no doubt that children are entitled to be supported by their parents in the same way they would have been had the parents not separated. However, the laws of Mississippi are specific regarding how child support obligations are determined and whether or not an increase or decrease in the amount is warranted. Therefore, a lawyer who specializes
in family law will be most helpful in assisting you in seeking a modification of child support.

It's important to know that parties cannot agree between
themselves to alter an existing child support order. Court orders on child
support can be modified only by subsequent court orders. Modifications to child support orders are generally granted where material, significant and unexpected changes in circumstances have occurred. These changes can be brought before the court in an attempt to increase or decrease the child support obligation. It is commonly argued that a change in circumstances has occurred where the paying parent's income has substantially increased. For example, if a parent receives a higher paying job, a substantial promotion, or an inheritance, he or she could be expected to pay a new and higher child support amount. However, this factor alone may not be enough for the court to increase the child support amount. In addition, changes in a child’s expenses, such as high medical or dental expenses not covered by insurance, might necessitate a modification of child support. Expenses related to childcare, summer camps or private schools might also be a basis for seeking higher support levels, especially if private schools or summer camps were part of the family’s lifestyle before the separation or divorce.

Changes in the parenting plan may necessitate a downward modification in child support. For example, if a child goes to live with the non-custodial parent on a long-term basis, the court may find justification in
terminating or significantly reducing the amount of child support. Also, a downward modification may be available if one parent experiences an involuntary loss of employment or becomes disabled. However, it should be noted that voluntarily quitting a job cannot be used to justify a reduction in child support. Similarly, temporary periods of unemployment for parents who are seasonally employed are generally not considered unexpected, especially if the nature of this employment was taken into consideration when the amount of child support was originally determined.

There are many other circumstances and situations that may
justify modification of a child support order. Therefore, it is best to seek
the assistance of a qualified lawyer if you need your current child support
order modified.

Law Call

Do you have questions about Child Custody or Divorce?
 
If you live in the Jackson, MS area be sure to watch and call in with your questions to Law Call on WLBT newschannel 3 at 6:30pm on Saturday, July 23, 2011.  I will be the featured attorney talking live and answering your questions.  The topic for the night will be Child Custody and Divorce.  I'm looking forward to hearing from you and answering your questions!  

Under Arrest? Tips to Follow

When you have been arrested there are are some things you should do. For example, you should remain silent and only answer very basic questions, such as your name and address. You should always ask to speak with an attorney immediately, who can advise you of your rights. There are also many things you shouldn't do. You should never talk to anyone about the incident except your lawyer. What you do or don't do when you've been arrested can have a significant effect on the outcome of your case.

THINGS YOU SHOULD DO: Once you have been placed under arrest, there are some beneficial things you can do to ensure your rights are not violated. Some of the things you should do include:

• Remain silent - you do not have to answer any questions the police ask you and anything you say will be used against you in court
• Be polite and respectful towards the police officer(s)
• Remain calm
• Contact your attorney or ask for one and don't say anything until they are present
• Try to remember the badge numbers of any officers you are involved with, as well as their patrol car number(s)
• Make sure that your attorney is present for any questioning
• Make sure that your attorney is present for any lineups or testing (such as drawing a blood sample)
• Let your attorney deal with the police and any prosecutors, especially if they offer you some kind of deal
• If you are injured, be sure to take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible and get medical attention
• Try to find witnesses and get their contact information (name, phone number)

THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT DO: There are also several things you should not do If you are arrested. The following are things that can have negative effects on the outcome of your case:

• Do not say anything about the incident to the police.
• Do not mouth off to the police or do anything to upset them even if they are being rude and confrontational towards you.
• Do not attempt to run from the police-you will likely be caught and it will not look good in court and may result in further charges.
• Do not say anything about the incident to anyone besides your lawyer (this includes cellmates if you are in jail).
• Do not give the police permission to search anything.
• Do not resist arrest , even if you are innocent, resisting arrest can lead to increased charges. In particular, do not touch the officers in any way.
• Do not believe the things the police tell you in order to get you to talk -the police are allowed to lie to you and often times will tell you it will be easier on you if you just tell the truth. It will only make it easier for the police to prove their case.
• If the police come to your home, do not let them in unless they have a warrant and do not go outside. It may be that they need an arrest warrant to arrest you in your home and if you go outside, you may be arrested without a warrant.
• If the police arrest you outside your home, do not allow any officer to go into your home to get clothes, talk to your wife, etc. If you accept, the police will escort you into your home and begin to search it without a warrant. The same applies to your car.

DO YOU NEED A LAWYER? Yes. A qualified Mississippi Criminal Defense Lawyer can inform you of your rights and defenses and represent you in court. The above lists are suggestions of things you should do or not do in order to ensure that your rights are protected. An experienced Mississippi Criminal Lawyer can help protect your rights as well

The Urgency of Retaining an Attorney After a DUI Arrest

The Importance of Retaining an Attorney Immediately After a DUI Arrest:

Regardless of the circumstances, you should always seek the assistance of an attorney immediately after any arrest.  Deadlines and timing are of utmost importance in legal matters and you may lose important legal rights if you do not retain an attorney immediately to advise you.  It is especially important that you retain an attorney immediately after being arrested for a DUI charge. The urgency and need for an experienced Mississippi DUI Attorney is even more acute if the driver has prior DUI convictions. 

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime, which could lead to severe consequences.  The impact of a DUI conviction on your criminal record is serious and may affect the rest of your life. There are harsh penalties in Mississippi for drivers who are convicted. A driver convicted of a DUI could face imprisonment, financial penalties, license suspension, job loss, and vehicle impoundment. You do not have to plead guilty and should contact an attorney to work to eliminate the charges or minimize the consequences in order to protect your future. 

It is imperative that you contact an experienced and reputable Mississipp DUI Attorney immediately after the arrest or it may be too late to implement a successful legal strategy. 

Finding A Qualified And Quality Attorney: The Basics

Finding an Attorney: The Basic Guidelines to Follow

When looking for the right family law attorney, it is crucial to look past the outward presentation to discover which lawyer will actually work towards your best interest. All family law issues bring to the forefront emotions and issues that are like no other. It is important to find an attorney that will be best equipped to handle and face the legal issues your case presents.

One piece of advice would be to research the attorneys in your area that concentrate in the area of law specific to your legal situation. For example, if you have a family law issue you would want o find an attorney that has experience or specializes in that area of law. In addition, find an attorney you feel comfortable talking to and understands your emotions. Take notice how each attorney responds to your questions and whether or not they display genuine concern about your circumstances. Do not be afraid to ask for a way to contact previous clients for information on past experiences with the lawyer. A lawyer that provides good customer service by promptly answering phone calls and emails is an ideal lawyer. Hiring an attorney simply because you know them or a friend used them is most often not a good idea. All attorneys are different and practice or specialize in different areas of the law. A lot of attorneys will take your case simply because they are getting paid, regardless of knowledge or experience in the specific area of the law that you require effective representation. Your attorney should always have your best interests at the forefront. Some red flags that may indicate you should seek more qualified and effective representation include: your attorney does not keep you updated on your case, is not prompt to return phone calls or emails, requests large or unreasonable retainer fees, requests more money without providing adequate explanation of the progression of your case, is reluctant to pursue the best outcome for you even if it means more work for them.

You should never feel like your attorney is not on your side. By doing your homework researching & contacting the attorneys in your area, you will be able to make a more knowledgeable & confident decision that should lead to quality representation and a more pleasant experience.