In the instance that you haven’t by now, probably sometime in your life you will have to employ an attorney. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, below is a group of responses to basic along with imperative questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek out legal advice right away. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit call for responses that involve exact deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that allow you to think about the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney or lawyer in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining a lawyer away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators are 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 structure of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is normally required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in a few unique areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any attorney should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he or she is prepared 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 sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to occasionally review the docket and see what events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable getting in touch with your attorney at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be billed for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to study your area of need and research what legal professionals are around to help you. A referral from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but really should not be the only reason counsel is chosen. Research the attorney’s background of training, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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