In case you have not by now, chances are that sometime in your own life you’ll have to retain an attorney at law. With the help of my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, this is a variety of responses to basic along with imperative questions.
1. QUESTION: How do I know if I require a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have already been served with a Summons and related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to look for legal guidance without delay. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that allow you to consider the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit 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 issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers or attorneys practice in other counties and other states, depending on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein 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 thing to consider in hiring an attorney outside the area wherein the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others give you a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
3. QUESTION: What exactly 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 decided on mediator to try and solve all or a number 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 counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the charge 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 attorney at law do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, attorneys may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in a few unique 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 extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any attorney should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to consult with another in a specialised area.
5. QUESTION: How can I make sure my lawyer is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that supply 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 transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel at ease getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be charged for these communications.
6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are generally just as complicated. To safeguard your legal rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to research your area of need and research what lawyers are available to assist you. A recommendation from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but shouldn’t be the only reason counsel is picked. Research the attorney’s background of education, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but can also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the exact same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a medical doctor, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
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