In the event that you haven’t previously, probably sometime in a lifetime you’ll need to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, what follows is a number of responses to basic as well as imperative questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal guidance without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that allow you to think about the legal issues and potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as soon as possible is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is important as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel outside the area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others give you a lowered rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. 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 decided on mediator to try and solve all or some of the issues involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential structure of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the fee of the mediation evenly but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is typically required in just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How may I make sure my attorney is resolving my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line access 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 comfortable getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the issue, understanding you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what attorneys are available to help you. A referral from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but shouldn’t be the singular reason counsel is picked. Research the attorney’s background of education, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking basic 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 pick of a doctor, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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