In the instance that you have not before now, chances are that sometime in your lifetime you will have to retain an attorney at law. Thanks to my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a selection of responses to common as well as imperative questions.

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

2. QUESTION: How can I be sure my attorney is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer accounts for his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – up front, quarterly, etc. You can also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to often review the docket and see what activities have occurred by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease contacting your attorney at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be charged for these communications.

3. QUESTION: Just how do I pick an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal problems are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as complex. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to research your area of need and research what lawyers are around to help you. A referral from someone you know and respect can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but really should not be the only reason counsel is chosen. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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

5. QUESTION: What exactly is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the case present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial between the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is usually required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

6. QUESTION: What kind of legal professional do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in several specific areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any attorney can go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to speak with another in a specialised area.

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