In the case you haven’t by now, probably sometime in a lifetime you’ll need to hire an attorney. With the help of my interview with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, here is a number of responses to common along with fundamental questions.
1. QUESTION: Precisely how do I select an attorney?
ANSWER: Legal troubles are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as complex. To protect your legal rights and remedies, the ideal practice is to study your area of need and research what attorneys are out there to help you. A referral from somebody you know and respect can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an law firm but really should not be the exclusive reason counsel is picked. Research the lawyer’s background of training, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be strengthening but may also restrict or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be considered with exactly the same degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a medical doctor, accountant, financial expert or therapist.
2. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and similar documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit call for responses that involve exact deadlines; missing those deadlines could compromise your defense, limit or avoid your recovery. Some concerns by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that enable you to think about the legal issues and possible resolution before a lawsuit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel as quickly as possible is advised.
3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the matter 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 concerns involved. Mediators are to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to stay impartial amongst the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically 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 just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What kind of lawyer do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other businesses, lawyers may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer you services in a few precise 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 extremely technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to go over your specific issue, determine if he/she is prepared to handle such matters or inform you of the necessity to seek advice from another in a specialized area.
5. QUESTION: Do I have to hire an attorney at law in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other counties and other states, based upon on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county in which the matter is being litigated is crucial as that lawyer will have a level of comfort with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing counsel) and judges. One thing to consider in retaining legal counsel away from area wherein the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others give you a lowered rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
6. QUESTION: How may I make sure my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer keeps track of his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – once a month, quarterly, etc. You may even keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you are wise to periodically review the docket and see what activities have transpired by your counsel and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in contact with your attorney at intervals to determine the status of the matter, knowing you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.
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