Top Steamboat Springs, CO Environmental Law Lawyers Near You

Do You Have an Environmental Law Claim?

There are federal and state laws in place to protect the environment, natural resources and wildlife. If you or your company has questions about complying with these laws, an experienced Steamboat Springs environmental law attorney will be able to help you.

Different Environmental Law Issues

Often times, a person won’t know they are in violation of an environmental protection law, but with urban planning regulations, water and air rights and pollution issues, it is easy to be in violation of some sort of environmental law without even knowing it.

Whether the issue be the amount of emissions permitted in a certain location or the storage and disposal of chemicals, the fines and potential criminal ramifications can be huge. An environmental law lawyer can help you or business recognize which laws are applicable to your situation as well as comply with existing laws. They will also be able to create policies that will limit any potential liabilities.

Top Questions to Ask When Hiring an Attorney

• How many years have you been practicing law? How long have you practiced law in the local area?
• How many cases similar to mine have you handled in the past?
• What is the likely outcome for my case?

In legal practice, experience matters. An experienced attorney will likely have handled issues similar to yours many, many times. Therefore, after listening to your situation, the attorney should have a reasonable idea of the time line for a case like yours and the likely resolution.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation

Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

In general, how much an attorney costs will often depend on these four factors: billing method and pricing structure, type of legal work performed, law firm prestige, and attorney experience. Depending on the legal issue you are facing, an attorney may bill you by the hour, settle on a flat fee, or enter into a contingency fee agreement. The type of legal work you need help with will also play a role in cost incurred.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.