Assuming you haven’t by now, probably sometime in your life you will have to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here’s a variety of responses to common along with 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 associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that allow you to take into account the legal issues and potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is advised.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney at law in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is essential as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the community courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining legal counsel outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others offer a lowered 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 issue present at an agreed site with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential structure of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is normally required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, attorneys may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in several specific areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any attorney can discuss your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How may I be certain my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – month-to-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 established, you are wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you will likely be charged for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as perplexing. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to study your area of need and research what lawyers are out there to assist you. A recommendation from someone you know and respect can add a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but shouldn’t be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Look into the lawyer’s background of training, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that given to the pick of a medical professional, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

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