In the case you haven’t before now, probably sometime in your own lifetime you’ll have to hire a lawyer. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, what follows is a selection of responses to very common along with imperative 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 should endeavor to look for legal assistance without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that allow you to consider the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys 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 lawyer will have a level of comfort with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers don’t charge for travel, others offer a lowered rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what 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 should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is normally required in just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer services in several 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 associated matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can discuss your specific issue, determine if he/she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the need to speak with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How am I able to make sure my lawyer is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you’re wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel at ease getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, understanding you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as complicated. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what law firms are available to assist you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an law firm but really should not be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with exactly the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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