In the case you haven't already, probably sometime in your own lifetime you will have to retain the services of a lawyer. Thanks to my interview with Tampa Lawyer Christina Mesa, here's a number of responses to very common and worthwhile questions.

1. QUESTION: Do I need to hire an attorney in the county where the problem occurs?
ANSWER: No. Many lawyers practice in other jurisdictions and other states, based on their licensure for the latter. Having experience in the county wherein the matter will be litigated is crucial as that attorney will have a comfort level with the neighborhood courthouse personnel, lawyers (likely opposing lawyer) and judges. One matter in retaining an attorney outside the area in which the matter occurs is cost of journey time. Some lawyers do not charge for travel, others offer a decreased rate or preserve a billable rate for all work carried out. Talk about that question with each lawyer consulted.

2. QUESTION: How may I be certain my lawyer is working on my issues?
ANSWER: Every good attorney accounts for his time (fees) and expenses (costs). Your retainer agreement should include a affirmation of how the lawyer bills his clients - month-to-month, quarterly, etc. You may also keep track of your case in some jurisidictions that supply on-line access to case dockets. If the county has that available, you're wise to periodically review the docket and see what events have taken place by your attorney and the other party/counsel. In addition feel at ease contacting your lawyer at intervals to learn the status of the issue, understanding you will likely be billed for these interactions.

3. QUESTION: Exactly how do I select an attorney at law?
ANSWER: Legal matters are as vast as those in other sectors, such as medicine, construction, finance, etc. and can be just as complicated. To safeguard your rights and remedies, the best practice is to research your area of need and research what law firms are around to work with you. A referral from somebody you know and respect can add a personal element to the consideration to hire an attorney but shouldn't be the exclusive reason counsel is selected. Look into the lawyer's background of training, expertise and area(s) of practice. Asking basic questions should be encouraged in this process. Self-help can be empowering but may also reduce or negate your recovery. Hiring a law firm should be contemplated with the exact same level of thought and consideration as that directed at the selection of a medical doctor, accountant, financial consultant or therapist.

4. QUESTION: How do I know if I need a lawyer?
ANSWER: If you have been served with a Summons and comparable documents (Complaint, Petition, Motion), you really should endeavor to look for legal assistance immediately. Papers filed in court that start a lawsuit necessitate responses that involve specific deadlines; missing those deadlines could damage your defense, restrict or avoid your recovery. Some matters by statute involve a "pre-suit" period that allow you to take into account the legal issues and possible resolution before a suit is filed. Similarly, seeking legal counsel immediately is advised.

5. QUESTION: Precisely what is mediation?
ANSWER: Mediation is a process whereby the parties to the case present at an agreed site with their counsel (if retained) and a selected mediator to try and resolve all or a number of the issues involved. Mediators need to be unrelated to all parties and the litigation at issue, are to remain impartial amongst the parties and their counsel, and continue maintaining the confidential aspect of the conference to recommend settlement and resolution. Typically the parties share the charge of the mediation evenly 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 before a trial is held.

6. QUESTION: What kind 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, offer general legal needs or offer services in several precise areas of law. Trial lawyers handle cases involving lawsuits; family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody/visitation, child support, alimony and related matters; general practitioners handle nearly all matters. Some areas of law are very complex, like bankruptcy or taxation; others are delineated by statute, such as worker's compensation. Any attorney can go over your particular issue, determine if he or she is qualified to handle such matters or advise you of the need to seek advice from another in a specialized area.

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