In case you haven’t previously, probably sometime in your own lifetime you’ll have to retain legal counsel. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, below is a group of responses to popular along with fundamental questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek out legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit require responses that involve exact deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that enable you to take into account the legal issues and potential 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 attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is important as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what 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 resolve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually 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 generally required in every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialise in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in a few precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle almost all matters. Some areas of law are extremely complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any attorney can discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How can I be sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you’re wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complicated. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to research your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to help you. A referral from someone you know and regard can add a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but shouldn’t be the singular reason counsel is selected. Look into the attorney’s background of education, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the pick of a medical doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.

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