Assuming you have not previously, chances are that sometime in your lifetime you’ll need to retain a lawyer. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here’s a selection of responses to very common as well as worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to find legal advice right away. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit call for responses that involve particular deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that enable you to take into account the legal issues and probable resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as quickly as possible is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney 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 knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney away from area wherein the matter takes place is cost of journey time. Some attorneys do not charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each lawyer 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 selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to inspire 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 typically required in every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, 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; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How can I make sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – once a month, 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 periodically review the docket and see what events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel at ease contacting your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as complex. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the best practice would be to investigate your area of need and research what legal professionals are out there to assist you. A referral from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but should not be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Look into the lawyer’s background of training, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with exactly the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.

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