Q. How Do Lawyers Get Paid?
Matters involving personal injury and wrongful death are handled on a contingency fee basis. No fee is charged unless a recovery is made for the client. In the event of a recovery the attorney's fee is a percentage of the recovery, a percentage limited by The Florida Bar. Costs are advanced by the lawyer and are recaptured from the recovery.

In Criminal and Family matters, attorney's fees may be based upon an hourly rate, a stated flat fee, a contingent hourly fee or a combination of these methods.


Q. How Long Does It Take To Resolve a Claim For Injuries?
The amount of time it takes to resolve a claim for injuries depends upon your injuries. You would never want to resolve the case until you know the full extent of your condition. When you have reached the point where nothing else can be done for you medically, you have reached what is called maximum medical improvement (MMI). That is when cases are typically resolved. It can take anywhere from a few months to several years to reach maximum medical improvement


Q. Why Do I Need An Attorney If The Insurance Company Will Settle?
The settlement may not cover all your damages, and you may forfeit certain rights by settling. Lance P. Richard, P.A. works to protect all of your rights and help you recover what you deserve.


Q. What Should I bring For My First Visit to a Divorce Attorney?
Bring all records that pertain to your divorce case, including financial accounts, real estate, property, living expenses, and proof of each spouse's contribution to the marriage.


Q. Do I Need a Family Lawyer?
The decision to hire a family lawyer is a personal one. However, since many of the issues surrounding divorce, child custody, child support, alimony/spousal support, and property division are complicated, it may be helpful to have the advice of Lance P. Richard, P. A.


Q. Will The Mother Always Get Custody?
No. Florida law requires that the court give equal consideration to the mother and the father. Florida believes it is in the best interest of the child for both parents to have legal custody of the child and that both parents share parenting time with the child.


Q. Am I Entitled to Child Support?
It is the duty of both parents to support their child. The amount of child support is usually determined using the Florida Child Support Guidelines. The net incomes of both parents are taken into consideration in determining the amount of each parent's contribution.


Q. How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Me?
Lance P. Richard, P.A., can help by answering any questions , reviewing your particular situation and protecting your rights immediately. It is impossible to say whether you need legal representation and what you are up against without and initial consultation to discuss the charges.


Q. What is a First Appearance Hearing?
The Florida Constitution requires that when someone is arrested, they must either be given a bond or if they are not given a bond, they must be brought before a Judge within 24 hours of their arrest. This is what is called a "First Appearance" hearing. At this hearing, the Judge will determine the amount of the bond to be set and any other conditions of release.


Q. I've Been Arrested for DUI in Florida. Now what?
DUI is a very serious crime in Florida. DUI is one of the many crimes which can never be sealed or expunged. If you are charged with DUI, you need a lawyer experienced in handling DUI. You need attorney Lance P. Richard, P.A.


Q. What Are The Penalties for a First DUI Offense in Florida?
A first DUI conviction will result in a driver's license revocation of 180 days to 1 year. You may face a fine of up to $2,000, 50 hours of community service, probation for up to 1 year, and up to 9 months in jail. Specific penalties may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and will depend upon your specific blood alcohol concentration, as well as other particulars of your case.


Q. Can I Get My Driver's License Back After a DUI?
If you blew a .08 or higher, your license is suspended for a period of 6 months, if you refused a breath, blood or urine test, your license is suspended for 12 months, or 18 months if you have previously refused. Lance P. Richard, P. A. can fight this suspension, but you only have 10 days.