Man, this forum has been so quiet compared to some years ago.
Hell is most definitely a different time zone, since it is a different plane/universe.
How long it takes for someone to re-incarnate depends on the acts they committed and how long it takes for them to pay their karmic debs in Hell.

I'd also like to add that after death, you get a chance to have an attorney as well.

There is no escaping of your karmic repercussions, but if you have committed misdeeds and charges are laid against you, you would like a defense attorney, right?

This job is fulfilled by family/friends/relatives of the deceased; Which is why we burn joss paper and incense, offer candle lights and food/drinks, etc.

Praying for the deceased can definitely help them in the afterlife.