If you haven’t already, probably sometime in your own lifetime you’ll have to retain an attorney at law. Thanks to my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a group of answers to basic and imperative questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need 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 attorney will have a level of comfort with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring legal counsel away from area in which the matter takes place is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in 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 charge of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is typically required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, attorneys may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in a few precise areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How am I able to be 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 lawyer bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you’re wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you’ll likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal topics are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as complicated. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to study your area of need and research what law firms are around to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but really should not be the singular reason counsel is picked. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that given to the pick of a physician, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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