|
At the law firm of Curry, Pearson & Wooten, we understand that finding an enforcement action lawyer is not easy. Therefore, we have compiled a list of questions you should ask any aviation attorney you are thinking of hiring.
Looking for a lawyer to defend you in a matter with the FAA? Make sure you ask these six basic questions:
- Do you have experience handling cases similar to mine? Even if a lawyer advertises that he or she represents your type of case, it doesn’t mean this person has a lot of specialized experience. You need to ensure that the attorney you choose possesses the appropriate experience and skills to properly handle an aviation enforcement matter.
- What is your background? The more experience an attorney has, the better. A pilot's license is great yet the inquiry shouldn't stop there. A lawyer with a unique background relevant to your situation could help your case outcome. For example, if you are under investigation, or being prosecuted, by the FAA, who would you rather have representing you—an attorney who has worked in the aviation industry for the FAA or one who has not? Make sure that the attorney has achieved an "AV" rating from the premier rating service, Martindale Hubbell (www.lawyers.com) or a "Superb" rating on AVVO (www.avvo.com);
- Are you a member of any trial associations or other industry groups related to enforcement action cases? Trial associations and other industry-related groups have strict requirements for membership. A lawyer with membership in such an organization usually has distinguished qualifications and a high level of expertise. At the very least - in your enforcement action case make sure that the attorney you select is a member of the National Transportation Safety Board Bar Association;
- Will I work with you directly or will a staff member handle my case? You should confirm that you will be working directly with the attorney. Many law firms will pass your case to a staff member. You deserve to be represented by a lawyer who will talk with you personally and answer your questions willingly;
- Have you written any books or publications or taught courses in the area of enforcement action cases or aviation law? When an attorney writes a publication, book, or teaches seminars or courses in his or her area of the law, especially at a major university, it indicates his or her knowledge of the law. It is a sign of special knowledge and industry reliability. Be sure to ask if the lawyer has written any publications or taught in his or her area of the law, and if so, find out if you can get a free copy.
- What's your plan regarding MY case? Each case has distinct facts and circumstances. Cookie-cutter defense in enforcement matters simply won't work. Has the attorney looked at the actions of air traffic controllers or analyzed the specific airspace and procedures regarding your situation? Listened to the radio communications? Analyzed radar data? Make sure the lawyer you hire has experience in such matters.
Getting the answers to these important questions will put you on the track to finding the right lawyer for your case. Don’t settle for second best.
For more information or a free case evaluation, contact our office today at 602.258.1000 or toll free at 1-877.732.2333 (1-877-7FAADEFENSE).
Be sure to click here to get the free enforcement action booklet that's filled with important information.
|
