If you haven’t before now, probably sometime in your own lifetime you will want to seek the services of a lawyer. Thanks to my consultation with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a list of responses to basic and worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to seek legal guidance without delay. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit require responses that involve specific deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that enable you to consider the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is essential as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring a lawyer outside the area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action 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 some of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are extremely complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any attorney should be able to discuss your particular issue, determine if he or she is prepared to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How can I be certain my lawyer is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that established, you’re wise to routinely review the docket and see what events have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you’ll likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as complicated. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to research your area of need and research what lawyers are accessible to help you. A referral from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but should not be the exclusive reason counsel is picked. Look into the lawyer’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 can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.