In the event that you haven’t previously, probably sometime in your life you will want to employ an attorney at law. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here’s a list of responses to popular as well as fundamental questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to find legal guidance without delay. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that enable you to consider the legal issues and potential resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers 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 crucial as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a lowered rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements might 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 type of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialize in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How may I be certain my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that offer on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you’re wise to routinely 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 contact with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal matters are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are accessible to work with you. A referral from someone you know and respect can add a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but should not be the only reason counsel is selected. Research the lawyer’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the pick of a physician, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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