In the case you have not by now, chances are that sometime in your own life you will need to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, this is a selection of answers to basic as well as important questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I want to hire an attorney at law in the county where the case 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 is being litigated is important as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining legal counsel away from area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

2. QUESTION: How may I make sure my lawyer is working on my case?
ANSWER: Every good attorney accounts for his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – in advancemonthly, quarterly, etc. You may even track your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what changes have occurred by your counsel and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel at ease getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, understanding you will likely be billed for these communications.

3. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal subjects 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 investigate your area of need and research what lawyers are out there to work with you. A referral from someone you know and admire can add a personal element to the decision to hire an attorney but should not be the exclusive reason counsel is chosen. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering 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 pick of a doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I determine if I require a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to seek legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that allow you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as quickly as possible is advised.

5. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between 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 might be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is typically required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

6. QUESTION: What type of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several unique areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with 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 extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any attorney can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialized area.

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