In the case you haven’t by now, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you’ll have to seek the services of an attorney. Thanks to my consultation with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a listing of responses to typical along with worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek out legal advice immediately. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that allow you to take into account the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is important as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring an attorney away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential structure of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is usually required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in several unique areas of law. Trial attorneys 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 lawyer should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to consult with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How am I able to be certain my attorney is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – month-to-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 set up, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you’ll likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal issues are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as perplexing. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to study your area of need and research what law firms are out there to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but should not be the singular reason counsel is picked. Research the attorney’s background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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