In case you haven’t before now, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you’ll have to retain the services of legal counsel. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here’s a number of answers to frequent as well as important questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to find legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that enable you to think about the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is advised.

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

3. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential structure of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer services in a few precise areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How may I be sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you’re wise to occasionally review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you will likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal matters are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as complex. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to investigate your area of need and research what lawyers are around to work with you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but really should not be the singular reason counsel is chosen. Look into the lawyer’s background of education, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a physician, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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