If perhaps you have not before now, chances are that sometime in your own life you will have to employ an attorney. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a selection of answers to typical as well as important questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I want to hire an attorney at law in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter is being litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in hiring legal counsel outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

2. QUESTION: How am I able to make sure my attorney is handling my case?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – in advancemonthly, quarterly, etc. You can also track your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that available, you’re wise to periodically review the docket and see what changes have occurred by your counsel and the other party/counsel. In addition feel comfortable contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you’ll likely be billed for these communications.

3. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal difficulties are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are out there to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an law firm but really should not be the only reason counsel is selected. Research the attorney’s background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a physician, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I determine if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to find legal guidance immediately. Documents filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that enable you to think about the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as soon as possible is recommended.

5. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed local with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

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

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