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Individual Representation |
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Below we have provided answers to many of the common questions that we are asked about Individual Representation.
If you would like more information please do not hesitate to call us at 508.655.5980 or e-mail us.
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| What is Individual Representation? |
Individual Representation is the best way to describe our relationship with clients that hire us to advocate
for them as their attorney in a family law action, such as a Divorce or Paternity action. When you hire us as
your counsel we consider it our duty to provide more than just litigation skills. At Kelsey & Trask, P.C. we
provide our clients with information, support, and confidence, in addition to our litigation experience.
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What is Family Law? |
Family Law is the area of the legal practice that addresses the legal needs relating to your family relationships.
This includes Adoption, Guardianship (both of adults and minors), Pre-nuptial Agreements,
Divorce, Paternity, 209A Restraining Orders, and Post-Judgment litigation such as Modifications (of custody or support)
and Complaints for Contempt. When disputes arise relating to any of these types of cases, you can choose to hire either
an attorney to represent you individually or a |
| What are the advantages of Individual Representation? |
Hiring an attorney to represent you in your family law case can prevent costly mistakes. If you sign agreements
you do not understand, you will still be stuck with the consequences. For example, in cases that could involve future alimony,
or complicated income or business issues, the choices you make now could create lifetime obligations.
We guide our clients through the court process ensuring they understand the documents and agreements they sign, or the
consequences of seeking the opinion of a Judge at trial.
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| Can we hire one lawyer to represent both of us? |
It is not ethical or practical for a lawyer to represent both parties in a Divorce or similar action.
In fact, Rule 1.7 of the Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct
prohibits a lawyer from representing a client if that representation will be directly adverse to another client unless the lawyer
reasonably believes the representation will not adversely affect the relationship with the other client AND each client consents after consultation.
Although both clients might consent, it is not reasonable to believe that a lawyer can represent two adverse clients at the same time in the
same action and look out for both of their interests.
It is possible to have a lawyer act as a mediator but in that case the lawyer does not represent either party and is not looking out for either of
your individual interests as an advocate would. Instead, the role of a mediator is to assist the two parties in reaching an agreement that they are both
satisfied with, regardless of whether that agreement in the opinion of the mediator might favor one party or the other.
It is also possible to have only one party hire an attorney, but it is important for the other party to
recognize that that attorney is not looking out for their interests too. |
| Can I hire my own counsel if I am participating in Mediation? |
We often counsel clients who are participating in Mediation in order to ensure that they complete the court paperwork
correctly, and that they fully understand the consequences of their agreements. Many mediators will encourage their clients
to consult with an attorney at least once regarding their Separation Agreement to ensure they understand what rights they might
be giving up. It's important to understand that a mediator does not represent either party's interest and is not in a position to tell
you if you might be agreeing to something that is not in your best interest. |
| What are the goals of Individual Representation - Settlement v. Litigation? |
At Kelsey & Trask, P.C. it is our belief that every case can be settled, and we are always considering the various options that
can lead to a mutually agreeable settlement. In many cases the costs of litigation (both emotional and financial) far outweigh the benefits that will
be received by "having your day in court." In much the same way that mediation can give people more power over the process of their divorce, settlement
provides both parties with an opportunity to have a say in how their case is settled. In contrast, when a Judge decides the details of your case your life
is in the hands of a stranger.
Because settlement takes the cooperation of (and often compromise from) both parties, settlement is not always possible.
In those cases when settlement is not an option, we have the experience necessary to appropriately and aggressively litigate your case. |
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