In the event that you haven’t previously, probably sometime in your life you’ll have to hire an attorney at law. Thanks to my discussion with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, this is a number of responses to frequent as well as important questions.
1. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should really endeavor to look for legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve exact deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could compromise your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that enable you to consider 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 have 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 essential as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in hiring a lawyer outside the area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some lawyers don’t charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Clarify 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 place with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and solve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the fee 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 every case filed in court and before a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, attorneys may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in several specific areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any attorney should be able to talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.
5. QUESTION: How am I able to be sure my lawyer is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation of how the attorney 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 established, you’re wise to occasionally 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 getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you will likely be billed for these interactions.
6. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complex. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the best practice would be to study your area of need and research what attorneys are around to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and admire can add a personal element to the plan to hire an lawyer but should not be the singular reason counsel is selected. Look into the attorney’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with the same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.
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