Alternative Dispute Resolution Lawyers | Gadsden Office | Serving Altoona, AL
140 South 9th Street, PO Box 388, Gadsden, AL 35901
Lead Counsel independently verifies Alternative Dispute Resolution attorneys in Altoona and checks their standing with Alabama bar associations.
Our Verification Process and CriteriaAlternative dispute resolution (ADR) is a process by which the parties can resolve their situation without going to court. The process typically involves several methods including arbitration, mediation, early neutral evaluation, collaborative law, and conciliation.
It is not necessary to have legal counsel for ADR proceedings, but it is a good idea to consult with an Altoona lawyer who is experienced in these forms of negotiation to protect your rights. The lawyer can advise you how to avoid potential misunderstandings and act as an advisor.
An attorney can often resolve your particular legal issue faster and better than trying to do it alone. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, while avoiding costly mistakes or procedural errors. You should seek out an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of law most relevant to your issue.
The goal of an initial consultation is to find an attorney you are comfortable working with and someone who can help you understand your options under the law. Seek to understand the relevant legal experience the attorney brings to your case. While it is not realistic to expect an attorney to resolve your legal issue during an initial consultation, you should gain a level of comfort with his/her ability to do so. A good consultation can clarify issues, raise pertinent questions and considerations for your case, and help you make an informed decision towards resolving your legal issue.
In general, how much an attorney costs will often depend on these four factors: billing method and pricing structure, type of legal work performed, law firm prestige, and attorney experience. Depending on the legal issue you are facing, an attorney may bill you by the hour, settle on a flat fee, or enter into a contingency fee agreement. The type of legal work you need help with will also play a role in cost incurred.
Pro se – This Latin term refers to representing yourself in court instead of hiring professional legal counsel. Pro se representation can occur in either criminal or civil cases.
Statute – Refers to a law created by a legislative body. For example, the laws enacted by Congress are statutes.
Subject matter jurisdiction – Requirement that a particular court have authority to hear the claim based on the specific type of issue brought to the court. For example, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court only has subject matter jurisdiction over bankruptcy filings, therefore it does not have the authority to render binding judgment over other types of cases, such as divorce.