If you haven’t before now, probably sometime in your own lifetime you will have to hire a lawyer. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here’s a listing of responses to typical along with worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is important as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the county courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining an attorney away from area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain 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 contract should include a statement of how the lawyer bills his clients – in advancemonthly, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that available, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your attorney and the other party/counsel. In addition feel at ease getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.

3. QUESTION: How do I pick an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as complex. To protect your rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to help you. A referral from someone you know and respect can add a personal element to the plan to hire an law firm but really should not be the sole reason counsel is selected. Look into the attorney’s background of training, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with 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 lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to seek legal guidance immediately. Documents filed in court that begin a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that allow you to think about the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as quickly as possible is advised.

5. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may 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 before a trial is held.

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

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