Assuming you haven’t before now, chances are that sometime in your life you will need to retain legal counsel. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here is a listing of responses to very common as well as important questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I want to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the case occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other jurisdictions and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the county courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One matter in retaining legal counsel outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.

2. QUESTION: How may I make sure my attorney is working on my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – in advancemonthly, quarterly, etc. You can also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you’re wise to periodically review the docket and see what changes have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.

3. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal issues are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complicated. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the best practice is to study your area of need and research what attorneys are accessible to help you. A referral from somebody you know and admire can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but shouldn’t be the only reason counsel is selected. Research 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 can be strengthening but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the pick of a medical doctor, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I determine if I require a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to find legal guidance immediately. Documents filed in court that begin a lawsuit call for responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that allow you to think about the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as quickly as possible is advised.

5. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in just about every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

6. QUESTION: What type of legal professional do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may specialize in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; others 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 prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.

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