Should I Try to Negotiate a Settlement Without an Attorney First?

This is risky. There are complicated and specific rules that govern the valuation of land in eminent domain cases, such as rules about the "highest and best use" of your property and various appraisal rules. The danger is that you could say something seemingly harmless that will negatively affect the value of the payment you are able to recover for your land. In many cases, your words or actions in negotiations may create a problem that is difficult or impossible to fix later. Since consulting with an attorney first carries no cost for you, you should definitely work with an attorney before negotiating with the government.