Assuming you haven’t already, probably sometime in your lifetime you will need to hire a lawyer. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here’s a list of responses to very common and imperative questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to seek out legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that allow you to take into account 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 need 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 upon on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter will be litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers don’t charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: What exactly 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 solve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the fee of the mediation evenly but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is typically required in just about every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in several precise areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, 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 prepared to handle such matters or inform you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialized area.

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

6. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas 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 best practice would be to study your area of need and research what attorneys are out there to work with you. A referral from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the plan to hire an law firm but really should not be the only reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer’s background of training, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking important questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with exactly the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a physician, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.

If you have any concerns with regards to where and how to use Tampa Attorneys, you can contact us at our web-page.