Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

attorney location

i live in a small town within 30 miles of a metropolitan area (jacksonville) - but in a different county (baker). my wife is seeking a divorce and has hired an attorney in the town we live in. i'm assuming she will file for divorce here.

i don't know many people here, so i'm having trouble getting a recommendation.

would it be in my best interest to retain an attorney in this county, one who would be more familiar with the local judges and the opposing counsel? or should i look at an attorney ''in the city'' who may be more qualified but not as familiar with the ''goings on'' in this particular small town court system?

is being familiar with the judges and opposing counsel important or since this may not go to court, should i find the most competent attorney i can regardless of location?


Asked on 8/12/07, 11:10 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Thomas Rosenblum Rosenblum Law Offices

Re: attorney location

Hello:

'Read your question. I practice in all of North Fla. I have been in private practice since about 1990. I primarily handle family law, criminal law, probate and debtor/creditor cases. I have handled several cases in Baker. You have to decide whether it is a benefit to hire an atty. from Baker or another county. The main thing to seek in an atty. is whether he/she is competent and returns phone calls. I define competence as being ethical also, but knowing the law in that particular area, having experience in trials, being able to formulate accurate, covincing and intelligent arguments. It doesn't hurt to know the judges and local bar, but if an atty. has been around long enough and is competent, his/her reputation should make up for any negative of being from another county. The law in this area is the same for any atty. no matter where he/she is from. Let me know if you have any questions or need any information about my law firm. Good luck. Tom Rosenblum.

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Answered on 8/13/07, 12:16 pm
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: attorney location

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

I do not know the court system in your area, but it is very possible that the circuit court based in Jacksonville may also serve your area. You should get the most competent attorney you are able to afford and one who you feel comfortable with. It will not matter if the attorney is from Baker or Duval County as most attorneys practice in neighboring counties as a matter of routine.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 8/13/07, 2:17 am


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