In the instance that you haven’t before now, chances are that sometime in your life you will need to employ a lawyer. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, listed here is a number of responses to frequent along with imperative questions.
1. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal concerns are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and tend to be just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice would be to research your area of need and research what law firms are available to work with you. A recommendation from someone you know and regard can bring a personal element to the decision to hire an law firm but really should not be the sole reason counsel is chosen. Look into the attorney’s background of education, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help could be empowering but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be contemplated with exactly the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.
2. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer or attorney?
ANSWER: If you have recently been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you should endeavor to find legal assistance without delay. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit require responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a “pre-suit” period of time that allow you to think about the legal issues and probable resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel at the earliest opportunity is recommended.
3. QUESTION: What is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and solve all or a number of the problems 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 continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the charge of the mediation equally but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement in advance of the conference. Mediation is generally required in every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What type of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, attorneys may concentrate in a certain or more than one area. Similarly, law firms may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in several unique areas of law. Trial lawyers deal with cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very specialized, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, such as worker’s compensation. Any lawyer can discuss your specific issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the need to speak with another in a specialised area.
5. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the issue occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, attorneys (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel away from area in which the matter occurs is cost of travel time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a reduced rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
6. QUESTION: How can I be certain my attorney is resolving my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may even 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 counsel and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel at ease getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the matter, understanding you’ll likely be charged for these communications.
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