Assuming you have not already, probably sometime in your own life you’ll need to employ a lawyer. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, below is a number of responses to very common and worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to find legal assistance right away. 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 matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that enable you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer at the earliest opportunity is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney 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 experience in the county in which the matter will be litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in hiring an attorney away from area wherein the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work conducted. Clarify that question with each lawyer consulted.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed location with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead 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 attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in a few unique areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any attorney can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How am I able to make sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you’re wise to periodically review the docket and see what events have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, 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 industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and might be just as complicated. To protect your rights and remedies, the best practice would be to study your area of need and research what lawyers are accessible to help you. A referral from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but shouldn’t be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Research the lawyer’s background of training, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but can also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be considered with the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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