Know This Prior To Hiring An Attorney-Top Answers

Know This Prior To Hiring An Attorney-Top Answers

If perhaps you have not by now, probably sometime in your own life you’ll have to hire legal counsel. With the help of my discussion with Tampa Attorney Christina Mesa, below is a group of responses to basic as well as important questions.

1. QUESTION: Just how do I select an attorney or lawyer?
ANSWER: Legal problems are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and are often just as complicated. To protect your rights and remedies, the ideal practice would be to study your area of need and research what attorneys are accessible to work with you. A referral from someone you know and admire can bring a personal element to the consideration to hire an lawyer but really should not be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Research the attorney’s background of schooling, practical experience and area(s) of practice. Asking a lot of questions should be urged in this process. Self-help could be strengthening but can also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a lawyer should be considered with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a physician, 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 seek out legal advice without delay. Papers filed in court that commence a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve particular deadlines; skipping those deadlines could compromise 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 potential resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking a lawyer at the earliest opportunity is advised.

3. QUESTION: Exactly what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a course of action whereby the parties to the issue present at an agreed area with their counsel (if retained) and a decided on mediator to try and solve all or some of the problems involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all participants and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their lawyer, and maintain the confidential nature of the conference to encourage settlement and resolution. Usually the parties share the cost of the mediation equally but other arrangements may 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 prior to a trial is held.

4. QUESTION: What type of law firm do I need?
ANSWER: Again, like other industries, lawyers may concentrate in a specific or more than one area. Similarly, law offices may specialize, offer general legal needs or provide services in a few precise areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law lawyers handle separation and divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and associated matters; general practitioners handle most matters. Some areas of law are extremely complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; some are delineated by statute, as in worker’s compensation. Any attorney can discuss your specific issue, determine if he/she is qualified to take care of such matters or advise you of the necessity to speak with another in a specialized 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 on their licensure for the latter. Having knowledge in the county wherein the matter is being litigated is essential as that lawyer will have a comfort level with the local courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One consideration in retaining an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers don’t charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work performed. Discuss that question with each attorney consulted.

6. QUESTION: How can I make sure my lawyer is handling my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney monitors his time (fees) and expenditures (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a confirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients – month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also track your case in some jurisidictions that offer 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 taken place by your lawyer and the other party/counsel. It’s also advisable to feel at ease contacting your attorney at intervals to learn the status of the issue, knowing you’ll likely be billed for these interactions.

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