In the event that you have not previously, probably sometime in your lifetime you’ll need to employ legal counsel. Thanks to my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, what follows is a listing of answers to typical as well as worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal guidance right away. Papers filed in court that start 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” time period that enable you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer immediately is recommended.

2. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is essential as that attorney will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in hiring legal counsel away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers don’t charge for travel, others offer a lowered rate or maintain a billable rate for all work performed. Clarify that question with each lawyer 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 selected mediator to try and solve all or some of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the cost of the mediation evenly but other arrangements may be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in just about every case filed in court and before a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What kind of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or provide services in several precise areas of law. Trial lawyers 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 complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialised area.

5. QUESTION: How may I be sure my lawyer is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even track your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that established, you’re wise to routinely review the docket and see what activities have taken place by your counsel and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be charged for these communications.

6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal issues are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complex. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to study your area of need and research what legal professionals are out there to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and regard can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but shouldn’t be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be urged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

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