In case you have not before now, probably sometime in your own life you will have to retain legal counsel. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, below is a listing of responses to basic as well as worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to look for legal guidance right away. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage 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 possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as quickly as possible is advised.

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 upon on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter will be litigated is important as that attorney will have a comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel outside the area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer services in a few specific areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any attorney should be able to go over your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How can I make sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility 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 lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and may be just as complex. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what lawyers are out there to work with you. A recommendation from somebody you know and regard can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an law firm but really should not be the sole reason counsel is selected. Research the lawyer’s background of schooling, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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