In the instance that you haven’t before now, probably sometime in your life you’ll have to seek the services of an attorney at law. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a number of responses to typical along with imperative 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 related documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal guidance right away. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit call for responses that involve exact deadlines; missing out on those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce 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 probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer as quickly as possible 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 will be litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining an attorney away from area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or maintain a billable rate for all work carried out. Clarify that question with each attorney consulted.
3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed site with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or some of the issues involved. Mediators are 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 inspire settlement and resolution. Generally the parties share the fee of the mediation equally but other arrangements can be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What kind of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, provide general legal needs or offer you services in a few unique areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to talk about your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialised area.
5. QUESTION: How am I able to be sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a confirmation 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 occasionally review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you will likely be charged for these interactions.
6. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal problems are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as perplexing. To protect your rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to investigate your area of need and research what legal professionals are available to work with you. A recommendation from someone you know and admire can add a personal element to the plan to hire an attorney but should not be the singular reason counsel is selected. Research the attorney’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with exactly 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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