In the instance that you have not by now, probably sometime in your life you’ll have to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, what follows is a number of responses to basic along with important questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to look for legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve particular deadlines; missing those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that enable you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as soon as possible is recommended.

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

3. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in several specific areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any attorney should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to speak with another in a specialised area.

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

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as perplexing. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are around to work with you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can add a personal element to the plan to hire an law firm but should not be the sole reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer’s background of education, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical professional, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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