In the case you haven’t previously, chances are that sometime in a lifetime you’ll need to seek the services of an attorney. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, this is a variety of responses to popular and worthwhile questions.
1. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal dilemmas are as vast as those in other industries, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and usually are just as perplexing. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the very best practice is to investigate your area of need and research what attorneys are around to assist 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 only reason counsel is chosen. Research the attorney’s background of training, experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged 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 degree of thought and consideration as that directed at the choice of a physician, accountant, financial specialist or therapist.
2. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a legal professional?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to seek out legal advice immediately. Papers filed in court that begin a lawsuit call for responses that involve specific deadlines; skipping those deadlines could damage your defense, reduce or avoid your recovery. Some issues by statute involve a “pre-suit” period that enable you to consider the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer at the earliest opportunity is recommended.
3. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed place with their counsel (if retained) and a chosen mediator to try and resolve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial between the parties and their lawyer, and continue maintaining the confidential structure of the conference to inspire settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the fee of the mediation evenly but other arrangements might be made if all parties are in agreement ahead of the conference. Mediation is normally required in just about every case filed in court and just before a trial is held.
4. QUESTION: What type of attorney do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other sectors, lawyers may specialise in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or offer services in a few unique areas of law. Trial attorneys handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are very technical, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, like worker’s compensation. Any lawyer should be able to go over your particular issue, determine if he/she is prepared to take care of such matters or inform you of the need to consult with another in a specialised area.
5. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney at law in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many attorneys practice in other counties and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county in which the matter is being litigated is important as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining legal counsel outside the area in which the matter takes place is cost of travel time. Some attorneys don’t charge for travel, others offer a lowered rate or maintain a billable rate for all work conducted. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.
6. QUESTION: How am I able to be certain my lawyer is handling my problems?
ANSWER: Every good lawyer monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer arrangement should include a affirmation of how the attorney bills his clients – monthly, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that provide on-line accessibility to case dockets. If the county has that set up, you’re wise to periodically review the docket and see what events have transpired by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel comfortable getting in touch with your lawyer at intervals to ascertain the status of the matter, understanding you’ll likely be billed for these communications.
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