Assuming you have not already, probably sometime in your lifetime you will need to seek the services of an attorney at law. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here is a group of responses to very common and important questions.

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

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, depending 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 comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or maintain a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process 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 need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually 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 usually required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in a few precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How can I be certain my lawyer is handling my issues?
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 – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease contacting your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and regard can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but should not be the singular reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a medical doctor, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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