Referrals are always the best source

Referrals are always the best source: if a friend or relative was pleased with an attorney, you should make that attorney your first call. Whether calling by referral, or after an on-line search, here are the questions you should be asking:

			1. How much of your practice is real estate, and how much experience do you have? Lita Smith-Mines has been focusing on real estate since 1982, has taught real estate law, and regularly attends real estate seminars. Over 90% of the matters in her office are residential real estate.
			2. What is your policy on returning phone calls? Absent quite unusual circumstances, all calls are answered within one business day. Evening and weekend responses may often be possible. It is not advisable to hire an attorney who regularly spends time in court, as his or her office time is necessarily limited.
			3. Is your fee fixed or is there "a range"? Lita Smith-Mines charges a fixed fee for services that is not dependent on the price of the house. Beware of attorneys who charge "from" a certain price, or those who state that your final bill will depend on the amount of work done.
			4. Is the fee put in writing? Lita Smith-Mines provides a written statement of the fee in her introductory letter. A Retainer is then presented to all clients to sign to indicate acceptance and agreement to the fee. It is your right to insist on such a statement: it is never advisable to enter into a relationship with an attorney without a clear cut understanding of the fee.
			5. Who will I be dealing with throughout the transaction? You have the right to deal with the attorney you hire. Lita Smith-Mines is the only attorney responsible for all aspects of your transaction.
			6. This is all new to me. What will you do to make it easier? Lita Smith-Mines knows that this is an exciting but very stressful time. Besides devoting as much time as necessary to answer your questions, she regularly sends out detailed letters helping you to understand what is happening, and what to expect.
			Click here for information on how to reach LITA SMITH-MINES, P.C.

		NOTICE: This web site and all information contained herein are for general purposes only and should not be relied upon as complete and/or specifically tailored to an individual transaction. Lita Smith-Mines is not responsible for the contents/accuracy of any links to/from this site, and this web site is neither a substitute for legal counsel nor a solicitation: you are urged to personally consult with an attorney of your own choosing.
		©2011 Lita Smith-Mines, P.C.