Should you get an engineer during the application phase?

Maybe. If you are fairly diligent and feel like you have a basic understanding of the way radio allocations are made, you may not need one. As one engineer described it, the service described in the rules seems to be "engineer-proof." You do not need any formal engineering document to apply for LPFM. There is a space on the application form where an engineer should sign if they have done the application for you -- however, if you fill it out yourself, you can leave that box blank- no one has to sign there.

A word about engineers and lawyers: These are some of the people that we talk to when we have questions that are beyond our expertise. You can always call us first and we can tell you what we know based upon our conversations with experts like these. We generally find that we can answer about 80%; of the questions that come our way, and as you know, our services are free. Some of the lawyers listed below have applied for grants (still pending) to be able to offer their services pro bono for LPFM applicants. Others will need to be paid. All of these engineers are friendly and may be willing to answer a few simple questions once or twice on the phone for free, but after that they will need to be paid for their services. Please realize that Prometheus offers common sense advice based upon our discussions with experts, our discussions with the FCC and our reading of the rules. We should not be considered a substitute for "legal" or "engineering" advice. If you need it and if you have any doubts, you should consult a licensed professional.