In the case you have not by now, chances are that sometime in your own lifetime you will have to retain an attorney. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, this is a variety of answers to basic along with worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal advice right away. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit call for responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that allow you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is important as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney away from area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is usually required in 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, lawyers may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any attorney can go over your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or inform you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How may I be certain my attorney is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may even track your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what events have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be billed for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Precisely 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 might be just as complex. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what legal professionals are accessible to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but shouldn’t be the exclusive reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer’s background of training, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a physician, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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