If you have not before now, probably sometime in your own lifetime you’ll need to hire a lawyer. With the help of my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here is a number of answers to popular as well as worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time 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.

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 experience in the county in which the matter will be litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel away from area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others give you a decreased 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 process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, attorneys may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several specific 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 extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any attorney can discuss your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the need to speak with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How can I be certain my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide 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 taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you’ll likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal problems are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the best practice would be to research your area of need and research what attorneys are accessible to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but shouldn’t be the exclusive reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer’s background of training, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the pick of a physician, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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