What is family law?

Family law is concerned with legal issues involving divorce, child custody, and child support. Maryland family law is complex, and requires a deep level of understanding in order to get the results you want.

Why do I need a lawyer?

A lawyer is there to ensure all of your rights are protected. They exist to represent you in court, as well as during mediation. An attorney will guide you through the legal process and answer any questions you have about your case. Your lawyer helps to get results as close to your ideal end goal as possible. You need a lawyer to make sure you have someone that represents you that understands how the law works and how to speak in correct legal terms.

What is a retainer?

A retainer is a fee paid in advance for legal services, so that the attorney can begin to work on your legal issues. The money is held in a special account, and the time spent working on your case is billed against the retainer, as well as any filing fees, fees for copies of records, and other expenses that might apply, depending on your case. Sometimes, the retainer is not enough to cover the litigation from beginning to end and you will be asked for additional money, and sometimes it is more than enough, and a refund is provided.

What is a flat fee?

A flat fee is a fee charged by an attorney for a specific representation. For example, if you need to be represented in court for driving under the influence, you might be charged a flat fee for that trial.

How do I know if I’m choosing the right attorney for my legal situation?

When you first speak with an attorney, there are several important things to keep in mind. You Attorney should focus on family law as a major portion of his practice. He or she should be able to answer each and every question about family law, even if you may not like the answer. Furthermore, you must feel comfortable sharing details of your life with the lawyer. James Thomas returns ALL client calls within 24 hours. Your attorney should do likewise. Your ideal lawyer will be in constant communication and devote their time to giving you the best results possible.