If you have not previously, probably sometime in a lifetime you’ll have to retain the services of a lawyer. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, what follows is a variety of responses to frequent along with important questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and associated documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal guidance right away. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that enable you to think about the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is important as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, attorneys (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 lawyers don’t charge for travel, others give you a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is usually required in just about every case filed in court and prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may specialize in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in several unique areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with 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, like worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to go over your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized area.

5. QUESTION: How am I able to be certain my attorney is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – month-to-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’re wise to occasionally review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. You should also feel comfortable getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: How do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complex. To protect your rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to research your area of need and research what attorneys are around to help you. A recommendation from someone you know and respect can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an lawyer but shouldn’t be the only reason counsel is chosen. Look into the lawyer’s background of education, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the same degree of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a medical professional, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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