No attorney when we refinanced about a year ago. Don't know under what circumstance you would need one. I believe there just needs to be a Notary Public stamp somewhere, at least here in Hawaii anyway.
Up to a certain point, everything is negotiable with with regards to rates and closing costs. You can get better rates at the expense of points, get points waived for a slightly higer rate, have certain fees waived like 'processing and documentation' ($500 or so), and may even get away with having the appraisal fee reduced or waived. Like Alan mentioned, it just depends on how aggressive you are.
Mortgage brokers are kind of a hit and miss thing. Check with friends, co-workers, for refferals. When we bought our house, we used a broker. Worked out well for us.
