Assuming you haven’t previously, probably sometime in a lifetime you’ll need to retain the services of an attorney. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, this is a list of answers to typical and imperative questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to find legal guidance without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that allow you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter will be litigated is essential as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining a lawyer outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed site with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and resolve all or some of the issues involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation evenly but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is generally required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in a few unique areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any attorney can discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How am I able to be sure my attorney is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you’ll likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to study your area of need and research what law firms are around to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and respect can add a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but shouldn’t be the sole reason counsel is selected. Research the lawyer’s background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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