Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thervo.
How much does a lawyer cost?
A lawyer costs$150 to $400 per hour, depending on their location, field, and experience level. Some lawyers charge a $500 to $5,000 retainer fee, which is essentially a down payment based on their hourly rate. Other lawyers charge a flat fee for basic services, including:
Filing for bankruptcy
Immigration cases
Trademarks or patents
Writing a prenup
An uncontested divorce without a custody arrangement
What does a lawyer do?
A lawyer gives legal advice and completes paperwork on behalf of clients. Lawyers who have passed the bar exam can represent their clients in court and advocate on their behalf. These services save their clients the time and stress it would take to complete legal work on their own.
Specific responsibilities of a lawyer include:
Advising clients
Organizing and filing paperwork
Conducting relevant research
Negotiating settlements
Communicating with clients, witnesses, and colleagues
Does it cost money to ask a lawyer a question?
Most lawyers offer free consultations before taking on your case. This allows you to ask questions and helps them decide how long the case might take and whether you're likely to win. However, once you hire a lawyer, you will be billed for phone calls, questions, and emails.
What education is needed to become a lawyer?
A person must get a bachelor's degree and a juris doctor degree (J.D.) from an accredited law school to become a lawyer. Law school takes 3 years, or 7 years including a bachelor's degree. They must also pass the bar exam in order to represent clients in court.
What's the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?
The terms "lawyer" and "attorney" are usually used interchangeably, but they are technically different. A lawyer is someone who graduated from law school and can give legal advice but may or may not have passed the bar exam.
An attorney is a person who passed the bar exam and is now qualified to represent clients in court. All attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys.
How to I choose a lawyer?
When choosing a lawyer near you, follow these steps:
Decide which type of lawyer you need for your case.
Compare reviews from lawyers on Thervo and Google.
Get 3+ estimates from lawyers near you.
Verify their credentials and whether they've passed the bar exam.
Choose a lawyer who fits your budget and makes you feel comfortable.
Choose a lawyer that's conveniently located if possible.
Get an estimate and contract in writing before any casework begins.
What questions should I ask lawyers?
Ask the following questions to find the best lawyer possible:
How long have you been practicing law?
When did you pass the bar?
Do you give free consultations to potential clients?
Are you able to take on my case now?
What are your rates? Do you charge by the hour or have a retainer fee?
How many cases like mine have you won?
Will you give me a written estimate and contract?
Reviews for Tampa lawyers
Recent success stories from people in the Tampa area.
Thomas Q.
Me and my family were involved in a pretty bad accident. This law firm helped us getting through bad times. They are the best at what they do. Would definitely recommend, you won’t be disappointed!!
Bengal Law: Florida Accident Lawyers and Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC
Brian K.
Donna is extremely professional and did an amazing job for me every step of the way, including getting a favorable outcome in my very stressful divorce. She did an excellent job of communicating and making sure we were on the same page, which helped to ease the stress of going through a divorce. I have recommended her to others and they have thanked me for the recommendation after also having a great experience with her.
D J Buchholz, P.A.
Olvera
Estoy muy agradecida con la abogada Monica Da Silva que me ayudo con mi divorcio, todo salió bien y justo.
All Family Law Group, P.A.
Rachel S.
Mr. Foote was very attentive and took time to answer my questions. At the end of our call I was informed of my rights and certainly much more calm.
Foote Law Firm
Aiesha M.
They really took good care of me. Communicated frequently during the week and answered all my concerns. They got me more than I expected!
Spetsas Buist Accident Injury Lawyers, PLLC
Walt M.
Very detail oriented and punctual. Able to think outside the box.
Florida Small Business Consultants Inc/ Lake County Tax Pro
Kira B.
I get to start the next chapter of my life now. Thank you, Christine!
--Christine was so refreshing and comforting to work with. She really cares, and it is evident in all she does and in every interaction with her. She is also about resolving problems to get everything done so you can move on with your life, instead of prolonging the exhausting fight for her own interests like other lawyers do. She also keeps the control in your hands, but guides you and helps you step by step.
It was so nice to find her during a time when everything felt so out of control and I was so stressed, overwhelmed and not knowing what to do. I would definitely recommend working with her and already have sent some of my friends to her because I know she is the help they need.
The Law Office of Christine Diorio, P.A.
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