In case you haven’t before now, probably sometime in your own life you’ll have to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a list of answers to common and fundamental questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to seek legal assistance right away. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve particular deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that enable you to think about the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as soon as possible is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is essential as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining an attorney 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 carried out. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what 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 selected mediator to try and resolve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the fee of the mediation evenly but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is usually required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in several precise 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 nearly all matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can discuss your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How may I be sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may even track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you’re wise to periodically review the docket and see what events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the matter, knowing you’ll likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to assist you. A referral from somebody you know and regard can add a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but should not be the sole reason counsel is picked. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the pick of a doctor, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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