In the case you have not already, probably sometime in a lifetime you will need to seek the services of legal counsel. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here’s a group of answers to common as well as worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal assistance right away. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I have 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 knowledge in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney away from area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements may 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 just before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in several specific areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he/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 sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the matter, knowing you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to research your area of need and research what lawyers are available to help you. A recommendation from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but should not be the only reason counsel is selected. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical professional, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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