In the instance that you haven’t previously, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you’ll have to employ legal counsel. With the help of my consultation with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, what follows is a group of responses to typical along with imperative questions.
1. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal subjects are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as perplexing. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to investigate your area of need and research what law firms are available to work with you. A recommendation from somebody you know and admire can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an attorney but shouldn’t be the sole reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but can also limit or negate your recovery. Hiring a legal professional should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that given to the selection of a doctor, accountant, financial advisor or therapist.
2. QUESTION: How do I know if I will need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have been recently served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek out legal advice right away. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit require responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” time period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is advised.
3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the concerns involved. Mediators should be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial in between the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the charge 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 just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What type of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, 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 unique areas of law. Trial attorneys deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce cases, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are extremely specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can talk about your particular issue, determine if he or she is prepared to take care of such matters or advise you of the need to consult with another in a specialized area.
5. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is important as that attorney will have a comfort level with the community courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining an attorney away from area wherein the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each lawyer consulted.
6. QUESTION: How can I be sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may also track 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 events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. You should also feel at ease getting in contact with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you’ll likely be charged for these communications.
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