Questions to ask when Hiring an Environmental Lawyer
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Hiring an Environmental Lawyer
Although
liability issues
are entirely manageable, understanding the responsibilities associated with owning a brownfield property is important. The goal is to avoid surprises, legal or financial. Retaining competent legal counsel will help developers understand and manage liability. Many real estate lawyers are familiar with the relevant statutes and provisions, but in some instances it is advisable to retain specific environmental law expertise, either separately or in association with a real estate lawyer.
When you are looking to hire a specialist you need to assure yourself that he or she is sufficiently well versed in the specific area of environmental law and site cleanups to be able to advise you well. Be sure that the lawyers are familiar with the Brownfields legislation and regulations. If not, assure yourself that they can become familiar enough with them.
There are several ways to identify a potential pool of lawyers who may be suitable to work on your project. If other professional advisors are currently working on the project, be they real estate lawyers or environmental consultants, they may know some lawyers with whom they have had good experiences. The
Rhode Island Bar Association
(RIBA) does not offer a referral service for environmental law, but most of the professionals practicing in this area are members of their Environmental Law Committee. You may call them (421-5740) to get a current list of the members of the committee faxed to you.
Questions to ask a Reference (Client , Environmental Consultant or DEM Project Manager)
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Were submittals timely and thorough?
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Did the lawyer work effectively with the client and the DEM Project Manager?
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Did the lawyer explain the law and processes well enough to you, and at the appropriate times so that you felt you were making informed decisions regarding the property?
Questions for Prospective Lawyers
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What other Brownfields projects have they worked on?
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What is your approach to liability protection?
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May I speak with your clients about the site(s)?
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