@andrewmmorris
February 22nd, 2011
Solicitor – Advocate in the Criminal Courts
Part-time composer for film and TV
Singer / songwriter / guitarist / weissenborn player
Today we’re tweeting UK crim lawyer, singer/songwriter/guitarist & former support artist for Peter Green & Friends @andrewmmorris
- @Andrewmmorris, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Andrewmmorris?
I am a solicitor advocate (Criminal Law) by day and a singer/songwriter and composer by night.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I am a criminal solicitor specialising in Crown Court cases and representing those charged with serious criminal offences
– - Exactly what type of clients do you represent?
Those charged with criminal offences, but these can range from the very minor to the most serious
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
the right to defend themselves against allegations to protect their freedom
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I don’t have a set phrase about what I tell a client, it depends on each clients situation as I have to act in their best interest
– - Makes sense…. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
This is really difficult for me to go into these cases. I have a duty of client confidentiality. But think Rumpole of the Bailey!!
– - Fabulous! And that last tweet may also work as an answer to this question: Why do your clients hire you?
am not sure why they hire me.I like to think Its because the client has confidence in my ability to defend them passionately
– - That’s a strong selling point…. What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
don’t have those kind of stats but there is always need for a criminal lawyer, as you can imagine especially in the current climate
– - Indeed. Tell us a bit about your successful second career as a singer / songwriter / musician: http://mysp.ac/gs7oAJ
Yes, played at glastonbury, supported @MarillionOnline , supported Peter Green, released two EPs, now writing for @Imagem_Music
– - Wow. Does composing and performing music make you a better lawyer? In what ways?
Performing certainly does, gives you confidence in public speaking and in court. Also teaches you team work when playing in a band
– - How do you manage to juggle two very demanding careers? Do you think you’ll ever have to choose between the two?
When you do two things you love its never hard to find time to do both, although my wife might disagree(!)
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I say am a lawyer by day, musician by night like a wierd superhero. People’s reactions are different but most people are intrigued.
– - I certainly was…. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
My objectives were to meet like minded people and learn more from others and as a forum to express myself and to promote my music.
– - What does the leadership of your firm think of your Twitter / other social media presence?
I don ‘t represent my firm on Twitter. I only represent myself and my music.
– - I see. All the same, have your Web 2.0 activities led to any opportunities for your practice?
Not yet!!
– - Perhaps one day…. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
For Criminal law its the Legal Aid budget in the UK , which is undergoing consultations to shake up the fee structure.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Solicitors and barristers profession may be merged or at least they will be working together under the same professional body.
– - I probably know the answer to this one, but what would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
yes its pretty obvious! A songwriter or composer – but I am very happy with my career as it stands and have never had to choose
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As a lawyer who cared about the cases I was involved in and always gave 100%. A Musicians who wrote a few decent songs!
– - What do you do when you’re not working (assuming there is such a time…)?
Writing songs, composing for Film and TV, playing live. I also like to keep up to date with legal developments, caselaw etc.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Stick with it as there is always the need for solicitors and lawyers in out litigious culture these days.We are a vital trade
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
That getting any experience you can is vital to securing a training contract, be proactive and believe in your abilities
Two good pieces of advice. Thank you for tweeting with me today; enjoyed learning about you and your practice
thanks for the interview, really enjoyed it.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Criminal Defense, United Kingdom | Comments Off on @andrewmmorris@rbratby
February 8th, 2011
International telecoms and technology lawyer
Partner at Olswang LLP, London
Author of Watching the Connectives legal blog
Today we’re tweeting w/ international telecoms and tech lawyer and recent convert to legal blogging @rbratby
- @rbratby, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @rbratby?
I am a partner in the London office of the international TMT law firm Olswang
– - Tell us about your law practice.
My practice is a mix of corporate and commercial deals with some regulatory advice
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mainly telecoms and technology companies
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
It differs – for some investment and growth, for others cost-reduction and for some regulation
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I will do everything I can to ensure that at the end of this project you want to instruct me on the next one
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I helped a UK mobile network outsource its fixed voice and broadband business
– - That must have been a complex deal. Why do your clients hire you?
yes – challenging, but great team here and at the client….
…Expertise, experience, enthusiasm, communication, cost-control (and modesty)
– - 🙂 What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
A mix of M&A, commercial (e.g.outsourcing) and regulatory / advisory work. Yes
– - You’re on the board of the Communications Management Association. Tell us about that organization and its objectives.
‘best practice, knowledge networks and government representation in communications, collaboration and cloud services.’…
now part of British Computer Society
– - You’ve written about the Digital Economy Act 2010 on your blog. What is it? What does it mean for your clients?
It is the front line between telecoms networks and rights owners: who takes responsibility for stopping IP piracy
– - How did your experience as a commander in the British Army influence your legal practice? Does it make you a better lawyer?
Staying cool and calm under pressure with little or no sleep is remarkably good training for law
– - Indeed! How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
International telecoms and technology lawyer
– - You recently began blogging on telecom and tech issues (http://bit.ly/grkaGi). What led you to start? Who do you write for?
I set up a blog for my wife www.lisabratby.wordpress.com, and thought I should keep her company. Still finding audience
– - What does your firm’s leadership think of your active social media presence?
Olswang encourages innovation, so watching with interest.
– - Nice. Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
It seems to me to be much more about contact and (re) engagement.
– - What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
How to deliver greater value at a lower cost
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
I wish I knew. But I predict that the global top ten law firms will include at least one from each of India and China
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Gardener
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As decent, kind and fair.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Spend time with my wife, family, friends and dog. Cycle, ski, garden, travel and go to the theatre
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Explore all opportunities. After the dot.com crash I got an MBA – there is always a silver lining
– - That brings us to our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Work hard, but remember to make good friends and enjoy life.
That’s useful advice. Thanks very much for tweeting with us today, and telling us about you and your practice
thank you
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: London, Telecoms | Comments Off on @rbratby@legallyerin
February 1st, 2011
Atlanta and Chicago-based personal injury lawyer
Owner, The Russell Group
Author of law and foodie blog Legally Erin
Today we’re tweeting w/Atlanta & Chicago-based attorney @legallyerin: litigator, counselor, foodie, amateur photographer, gadget nut
- @Legallyerin, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Legallyerin?
I’m Erin Russell. I’m a litigator, foodie and amateur photog. I’m licensed to practice in both Illinois and Georgia.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I recently launched The Russell Group. We focus on wrongful death, injury and business litigation & women’s legal issues.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
We represent people who have been injured, their families, business owners and victims of domestic & sexual violence.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
My injury clients need fair compensation. My business clients need to protect their assets while they grow their dreams.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
That our relationship is based on trust and on truth. Both are essential to a successful attorney-client relationship.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I recently handled a wrongful death case involving a man killed in a trucking accident on a snowy road. Really tragic.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
They hire me because they trust and like me. They know I am smart and qualified, and that I really care about their cases.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
My injury practice is growing, but my corporate practice is, too. So many smart people are starting new businesses now.
Typical, hard to say. But entrepreneurship is definitely on the rise.
– - That’s a positive sign…. What would you say is the most difficult aspect of being a personal injury lawyer?
Gathering, quantifying and assigning $ value to my clients’ suffering. It is the nature of the practice, but it is hard.
– - Can only imagine. You represent attorneys on ethics / malpractice. What led you to that work? Have you always done it?
I love representing fellow attorneys, and advising them on ethics issues. Been doing it 3 or so years. …
I started doing legal mal defense work in Atlanta. Now advise on social media, advertising, conflicts, all areas of ethics.
I love representing fellow attorneys and am very active on ethics matters.
– - Tell us about the women’s legal services you offer. What do they entail? Who are your clients? How do you help them?
I’m excited about the women’s legal services part of my practice. It is really two-fold. First, I represent female entrepreneurs…
and assist them in starting their businesses. Second, I represent women who are victims of domestic or sexual violence…
on a pro bono, flat fee or sliding fee basis depending on income. Finances should not dictate whether a woman can be safe.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I tell them I do litigation and talk about my corporate practice. People like talking about their dreams and goals…
The best way to engage them is to talk about what they need, and what I can do to help them get it. It’s a lot of fun.
– - Indeed. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
About a year ago. My objectives were then as they are now: To engage people, know them, and learn about them. …
Marketing rules for attorneys are tough. More so in some states than others. Social media presents challenges. …
But if you show a genuine interest in people, and form real relationships, social and business opportunities follow.
– - Makes sense. You blog at Legally Erin (http://bit.ly/blQqsG). Who do you write it for? Why should they read it?
Lawyers, people who like law, people who are curious about law. It’s no accident that so much of what we see on tv…
film and on the news relates to law. It captivates people. It’s important and affects real people every day. …
I write to inform, entertain and engage people. To create dialogue. They should read my blog because it is fun, accurate…
heartfelt and engaging. I love suggestions and comments. It’s a way to open discussion and share.
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Absolutely. The Web is how people come together now. I get calls, messages on Twitter and Facebook and emails often…
from people I meet online asking for legal advice, seeking representation, or seeking to refer someone to me. …
It’s all about the relationships, and about letting people discover that you’re sincerely concerned about their issues.
– - Congrats on that. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Economics, to be sure. The billable hour is no longer king. People are attracted to alternative menus of services …
as well as alternative payment arrangements. Flat fee representation is becoming very popular, and is antithetical …
to the old-school law firm model of practice. People are becoming more savvy consumers of legal services, and that’s good…
In order to really thrive, firms will need to keep that in mind going forward, & continue to innovate delivery of services.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
It will be leaner, more flexible. Though traditional practice will continue, there will be more room for creativity. …
There will be a much greater presence of virtual practices, and more accessibility for the average person.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
That’s so hard to say. I love being a lawyer and feel so proud and privileged to be able to do so. If I couldn’t do this…
maybe I’d try to be a chef or a photographer. But this is what I truly love, and wouldn’t want to do anything else.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
I hope to be remembered as someone who did good, who gave freely, had good intentions, and forgave easily. …
I hope I eased someone’s suffering, helped someone prosper, and made a difference in someone’s life.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I try to create something beautiful. It balances the stresses of litigation. I cook. I take photographs. …
I undertake art projects of varying degrees of difficulty to varying degrees of success. I read voraciously.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Remain visible in the profession. Volunteer. Be active in bar association events. Align yourself with other lawyers. …
Also, try to remain positive, at least publicly. Things will and do turn around, and you have more control than you think.
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Work hard. You’re going to love doing this if you do it right. Get real experience. Clerk. Volunteer. Ask questions. …
Also, be sure to examine many practice areas so you end up engaged in one you truly enjoy. And always be honest & ethical.
That’s good advice. Thanks much for tweeting with us today; I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice
Thank you for having me! I enjoyed it very much! Cheers!
@Aswsolicitors
January 25th, 2011
Today we’re tweeting w/ @Aswsolicitors, litigation / family lawyer and director of a firm in Blackpool, UK
- @Aswsolicitors, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Aswsolicitors?
a 35yr old business owner, wife and mum of a two year old
– - Tell us about your law practice.
we act for private clients. We combine traditional values with a modern way of thinking and vision for the future
– - Tell us a little about the type of clients you represent. Who are they? What do they do?
typically they are medium to high income working/retired individuals and businesses.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
most certainly the value of their assets and safeguarding the value of their assets
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Litigation is costly but we can do as much or as little as you want us to and we can work together to help you budget fees
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
a client who bought a house suffered serious abuse from neighbour. seller of house made misreps on property info form …
saying no problems. important for client to recover monies to enable client to sell at reduced price and move away
– - Why do your clients hire you?
I’m down to earth, upfront, honest and play devils advocate. clients can see on http://www.ascroftwhiteside.co.uk/ that …
we are friendly and can even get to know us before instructing us
– - Indeed they can. What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
our wills and probate dept is always our most active area due to our longstanding reputation and long estd Will dept
– - How have the economic challenges of the past few years impacted your clients? Are you seeing signs of recovery?
Prior to 2008 residential and commercial conveyancing was booming and as you can guess, we took a big impact on those …
areas. we are now seeing a growth in both areas but slow growth and probably more sustainable
– - How are you transforming a 130+ year-old firm into “a forward thinking, creative, modern biz”? Why is that important?
making new solid foundations, modern leadership, future online services + social media. Change is important because of …
imminent threats to legal profession. Hanging on to old ways is not an option
– - Speaking of change, let’s talk about Tesco law. What does it mean to your clients? To the legal profession?
clients: more choice of provider. Legal Profession: Its a big wake up call. To some it’s doom and gloom. me? an opportunity
– - Nicely put re Tesco Law. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I say I’m a Solicitor. I then get told that I don’t look or act like one!
– - 🙂 When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
about 6 mths ago. Initially it was a trial and to learn how to use it. Now it facilitates my networking and part of routine
– - More broadly speaking, how important is social media and social networking to your firm’s marketing efforts?
very It helps me keep in touch and make new contacts. also helps show that we are normal-not unapproachable and intimidating
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
yes. Mainly through Facebook. Had more contacts through Twitter rather than clients
– - What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
the sad fact that soon we won’t be a “profession” – just one of a number of legal services providers
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
reduced number of high st firms. those still around will be focussing on niche areas and online service
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I can honestly say that business is my passion not being a lawyer so i would work on any business
– - How do you want to be remembered?
as someone who inspired people to be who they want to be
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
spending time with my family, doing classes at the gym and reading
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
try not to be too general in the area of law you want to practise. Think:what’s going on in the country. how can you meet ..
those needs? finally, be positive!
– - And our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
there are a lot of doom mongers out there. Avoid them. If your heart is in law, stick at it. Be different, not a stereotype
That’s great advice. Thanks so much for the interview today; I really enjoyed learning more about you & your practice
Thanks Lance. Have a good evening 😉
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blackpool UK, Family Law, Litigation | Comments Off on @Aswsolicitors@Ned_Law
January 18th, 2011
Today we’re tweeting with Ottawa commercial real estate lawyer @Ned_Law (the third Canadian lawyer we’ve featured on 22 Tweets)
- @Ned_Law, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Ned_Law?
Husband, father, son, brother, partner at Ogilvy Renault since July, soon Norton Rose & a lover of buildings & a fun guy too!
– - Tell us about your law practice.
Known for expertise in Commercial Leasing & Real Estate I advise on bldg issues & construction w/ emphasis on mining deals
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Lrg corps require sophisticated advice & #CRE isn’t their core biz Mining: handle ppty issues on projects for M&A
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Lgl compliance due diligence securing rts. Clients want protection w/real estate whether buying leasing acquiring mining rts
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I’m avail understand their biz & give practical advice Don’t be surprised when I comment technical bldg issues I know my biz
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
A fortune 50 company entering in Canada & assisting w/acquisition leasing & construction on several lrg ppties (…)
in dif jurisdictions in Canada. Very sophisticated & I’m part of their team. Not a real estate co but need top #CRE advice
– - Sounds like an interesting deal. Why do your clients hire you?
I’ve worked in RE biz so I know construction, devlpmt & #CRE & how to negotiate the right deal & I’m a fun guy to work w/ 🙂
– - Good qualities to have! What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Mining sector is active right now w/many people looking to Canada cuz of its rich natural resources:less typical v.enjoyable
– - How has the economic crisis affected your clients? Are you beginning to see signs of recovery?
Canada wasn’t hit as hard as US.US clients die retract in Canada & some cash hungry clients sold #CRE & lease it back (…)
(…) a lot more stability now & Americans seem to be hungry for a piece of the pie in Canada-Target just made big move here
– - How is real estate law in Canada evolving in response to the growing demand for green building and sustainability?
Yes green bldg is imp but cost is an issue. I see a slow evolution to green, but not a general buy-in yet cuz of costs
– - Makes sense. What’s the biggest problem facing the CRE industry today? Overcapacity? Insolvencies? What are the solutions?
Here biggest issue-availability of product. No 1 wants to sell & hard to start from scratch (…)
(…) Target made a lrg acquisition here so it could get in the door w/existing assets. Expect to see similar transactions
– - You’ll soon be part of one of the world’s largest law firms. What does the upcoming merger mean for your clients?
We will be able to provide our clients w/seamless legal services around the world w/the same law firm culture we have today
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
That I advise on building matters, negotiating #CRE deals & often being part of an M&A team & mining work can be fun too!
– - How does your firm’s leadership respond to your active presence on Twitter?
Ogilvy Renault is AMAZING & supportive! Joined July ’10 w/announcements in National media w/my twitter account featured (…)
(…) @granatstein & @crossborderbio 2 Ogilvy Renault lawyers also on twitter. Ogilvy Renault is VERY supportive of us all
– - That’s great. Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
sure has! Inquiries & contacts: that’s what my presence online is all about not here just for work but to share news & info
– - Indeed. Let’s switch gears a bit: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Growing w/your clients as they do more business internationally.Impact of globalization is massive & law firms have to adapt
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
There will be 20 or so global firms in the top level of the legal industry. Norton Rose Group will be a part of this
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Easiest question to answer, you could ask my kids too they know – an architect, even tho I can’t draw a straight line!
– - How do you want to be remembered?
Compassionate, caring & fun. A good husband, great father & son, and trusted friend, honest & good lawyer, hard-working
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
LOL! See above – husband, father, son, brother, busy guy. Also community volunteer & regular exercise too. Sleep??
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Always think outside the box. Practice of law is not confined to law firms (…)
(…) Look at gov’t NGO & great in-house jobs all provide very fulfilling legal careers. Don’t limit urself to compensation
– - That brings us to our last question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Follow your passion, not money. Be committed to work hard & always strive for excellence: this is a v. rewarding profession
Great advice on both counts. Thanks much for this enjoyable interview today; enjoyed getting to know you and your practice
& thx to you too, fun too – You do a great job & cont’d luck with #22Twts – Ned
@RachRodgersEsq
January 11th, 2011
Owner, Rachel Rodgers Law Office
Author, My Lawyer’s Name is Rachel legal blog and Adventures of a Gen Y Solo Practitioner at SPU
Founder, Gen Y J.D.
Today we’re tweeting with Gen Y attorney @RachRodgersEsq, founder of Gen Y J.D. and The Cashflow’s “Entrepreneur of the Week”
- @RachRodgersEsq thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @RachRodgersEsq?
I’m a biracial New Yorker living in Cali, biz lawyer to GenY entrepreneurs, caffeine addict, traveler, dreamer, blogger, etc
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I have a business law practice dedicated to GenY entrepreneurs. Also have an Online Law Office that I am developing @ the mo
– - Exactly what type of clients do you represent?
Most of my clients are twentysomethings w/ businesses/non-profits in a whole range of industries incl tech, film, agro, etc.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Not sure if its “legal” but ignorance. They get themselves into trouble trying to DIY their legal services. They need access
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
That I’m always available to answer their Q’s & concerns and that my goal is to protect their interests so their biz is successful.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Helped a GenY’er buy her 1st biz. Seller was trying to screw her. I made sure she didn’t get screwed & still got the deal done.
– - Congratulations to both of you. Why do your clients hire you?
They hire me to help them make their dreams come tru. From forming a biz to resolving disputes, I’m on their team. Its pretty sweet!
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
New trend is Disputes w/ vendors or clients. Mainly b/c initial deal was done without a lawyer or proper contract.
– - Your law firm is designed for Gen Y biz owners and entrepreneurs. How does it differ from traditional firms?
Flat fees, online law office, free consultations, great customer service & me. I’m young like my clients so its not intimidating.
– - And how do the legal needs of Gen Y entrepreneurs differ from that of other clients?
Well, they need instant access to their lawyer & different levels of service to fit their varied stages of business & income
– - Makes sense. Why did you decide on flat fees for your legal work? How is that working out for you and your clients?
I chose flat fees b/c tracking billable hours sucks for me & not being able to control legal costs sucks for clients.
Its a win-win! Everyone is happy!
– - Win-wins are always good…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
Exactly! I help GenY start and manage their own businesses. And I write a blog to inspire them as well.
– - Let’s talk about your blog (http://bit.ly/ehc5Zl) & site for Gen Y lawyers (genyjd.com). What drives that activity?
I love to write, love to help ppl & it lets clients get to know me;
GenYJD came about b/c many Gen Y lawyers were contacting me about how I started my practice.
Also, that link was wrong for my blog. Here’s the right link: http://bit.ly/hFFxZ0. I’m in the process of moving it. Sorry!
– - Useful info on both sites. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I joined twitter to follow @carolynelefant & @scartierliebel so I could learn how to start my own practice;
Now I share resources & learn a ton from twitterville. Its an awesome little community that I love interacting with everyday
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
Most of my clients find me after reading articles I wrote on sites like @Under30CEO & @the_cashflow. And also my own blog;
I’ve met strategic business partners on Twitter & FB. And its how I got a column on Solo Practice University.
Social media and Web 2.0 activities offer an amazing ROI.
– - Sounds like a successful effort…. What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Access to legal services and overpriced law schools.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Flat fees only and all law firms offering services online if I have anything to do with it. Less expensive law schools, too.
And hopefully no silly restrictions on lawyers use of social media. 😉
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I’d find some other way to help people live their best life. Its my calling. 🙂
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who helped others and left the world better than she found it. Oh, and rich. I want to be remembered as rich, too. 😉
– - I wouldn’t mind that either 🙂 What do you do when you’re not working?
I read voraciously, sell things on Craigslist (for fun!), travel, cook & cheer on the Jets in the playoffs (woo hoo!).
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Be an entrepreneur! Don’t be all “woe is me” Take control of ur life & recognize that you have the ability to make a living.
– - And finally, what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Ignore the rankings! Get the best grades possible & accept the fact that you may have to start your own practice to be a lawyer.
Solid advice for both groups. Thanks very much for tweeting with me; I enjoyed learning about you / your practice.
The pleasure was all mine! Thanks so much for creating ! Great way for us lawyers to learn and connect! 🙂
@paulrubell
December 16th, 2010
Business and Technology Lawyer
Partner, Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP
Special Professor of Law, Hofstra Law School
Today we’re tweeting with Long Island business and technology lawyer @paulrubell, former attorney to Dr Robert Atkins
- @paulrubell thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @paulrubell?
Well, I’m a lawyer in New York, which I hope you won’t hold against me. I’m also a prof at Hofstra Law School.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I focus on the #technology space – software developers, mergers/acquisitions, tech transfer, privacy.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mid-cap and emerging #growth #companies; designers and customers of #software; #businesses and their owners.
– - And what is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
The #cloud + its attendant #security and #privacy concerns. Also the #economic #climate (ok that’s 2 issues).
– - Two big issues…. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
“This meeting is #confidential, whether you engage me as your #lawyer or we shake hands and say good bye.”
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Cant breach client #privileged, #confidential. More than 1: many, where people’s lives, #careers,, families are at stake.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
Recommendations, mostly. My holistic approach to personal & business – and I hope, my intelligence & experience.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
A lot of M+A deals. Licensing #software. Business advice of all kinds. Growth strategies.Typical? My firm & I are fortunate.
– - You work with a lot of entrepreneurs. How have they fared in the economic crisis? Any signs of improvement?
#Business in mandate industries (#healthcare, #financial) is booming. Service industries are slow.
– - Let’s talk about your work with Dr Atkins. There must have been some unique challenges…. What did you do for him?
I was Dr A’s personal & corporate lawyer from 1997 to his passing in 2003. I productized his nutriceutical company, grew it.
– - In addition to your law practice, you teach at Hofstra Law. Why do you teach? How does it make you a better lawyer?
I teach to give back to the bar and the community. I want to train young #lawyers for the real world of #business….(more)
….. Writing with clarity is an essential, scarce skill. I learn from students, and getting back to basics is key.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I listen. I try to understand their interests, aspirations. Make #eye contact. Use #body #language. It’s just like #dating.
– - Good analogy….. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I joined #Twitter in late 2008/early 2009 (thereabouts) as a way of learning from others…. (more)
….& sharing information.I have to understand client’s needs re social media, law. My goals haven’t changed since then.
– - What does your firm’s leadership think of your Twitter presence? Was it difficult to get their buy-in?
Social media is an emerging world, esp in business. Buy-in was easy once it’s explained/understood ….(more)
..…Media’s use in my firm dove-tails advice I give to clients.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
I use #Web 2.0 as a tool to facilitate communication & collaboration; board meetings, overseas. I haven’t used it to market.
– - Interesting approach. Let’s switch gears now: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
As always, quality #advice is hard to find. And today – so are jobs. …..(more)
…..As #clients’ businesses meet obstacles, their need/ability to pay for #lawyers diminishes.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Old/new. America is litigious; that won’t change. Emerging areas of law such as #robotics, #free #software will flourish….
More #tech tools (who knows what?!) will be at lawyers’ disposal, and more concerns about #safeguarding #client data.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I would design software applications, as I’ve been doing since 1969…..(more)
And my son @brentrubell wants to hire me as his general #counsel.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
That is a scary question. Family member, friend, kind, caring.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Enjoy my #kids and #wife, #friends. #Bike ride, going to the local #beach, read #science #fiction, #sleep.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Don’t give up. The economy will turn. Take any job in any area of law that opens up. Don’t be picky.
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Get A’s. #Network. And get A’s. #Learn as much as you can, about anything / everything. And get A’s.
Good solid advice! Thanks for your time today; I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice.
Thank you so much, Lance. Your questions were well conceived, as is this forum. I am grateful to have participated.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Business Law, Long Island, Technology | Comments Off on @paulrubell@liquidluncher
December 7th, 2010
Today we’re tweeting w/Massachusetts family, estate planning and real estate lawyer who enjoys running, food and beer @Liquidluncher
- @Liquidluncher, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Liquidluncher?
I am a western MA native. I love eating. I am a beer snob. I run a lot of charity races to burn the calories from both.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I am in Holyoke, MA. I have a general civil practice. Mostly family, guardianship, estate planning, probate & real estate
– - What type of clients do you represent?
I have mostly private clients with divorce/custody cases. I represent a lot of guardians. I love solving probate disputes
– - What would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting your clients?
No one single issue but most have concerns for safety and well-being of loved ones. Many clients are in financial distress
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I tell them I will do the best I can. They make all the final decisions. I will fight hard for them to achieve fair and just
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
There are two (1) Iranian woman with custody dispute. If lost her son would return to Iran and she would never see him (2)…
…(2) I worked on a MA Supreme Judicial Court case regarding child support with same sex couple who had child together
– - That sounds like challenging work. Why do your clients hire you?
I have a good reputation for honesty and integrity. I have been described as a diplomatic bulldog. I truly look for fair
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Guardianship, estate admins and real estate. kind of typical. New Probate Code in MA. I am a bit of an authority on it
– - How has the economic crisis affected your clients? Are you beginning to see signs of recovery?
It has. I do limited representation b/c people cannot afford me to handle their entire case. Not sure about recovery signs
– - Tell us about the Pro Bono Publico Award you received in 2009. What was it for?
I received award from Bar for commitment to providing access to justice to low income people. I volunteer a lot at the Court
– - Clearly you take pro bono very seriously. What types of pro bono do you do? How does it make you a better lawyer?
I volunteer to represent people. Provide free info seminars. I review Guardian reports for Court. I chair vol. lawyer group
– - That must be very satisfying…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I usually tell people I am a problem solver and that I take care of people who need help before I tell them I am a lawyer!
– - 🙂 How do you generally market your practice? Does social media play a big part in your marketing efforts?
most marketing is word of mouth. I use online marketing including social media to market. I do very little print advertising
– - How long have you been active on Twitter? Has your Twitter strategy changed over that time?
About 6 mths. It has changed. Less direct marketing. It is more about maintaining presence and building relationships
– - Makes sense. Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any referrals or client engagements?
I have had several clients inquire about hiring me through Facebook. At least 1 from twitter. It is hard to track sometimes.
– - That’s a great result for your efforts. What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
The intermingling of politics in election of Judges. No elections in MA. Can’t make tough decision when job is on the line
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Probably pretty similar to now, except more online legal filing like in Fed Court. Probably many issues with privacy rights
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I can’t imagine doing anything else. I would probably move to Maine and become a lobster fisherman or start a brewery
– - How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as someone who was honest and always helped the less fortunate
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I run longer distances working up to ½ marathon. Usually 6-10 miles. I like trying beer I have never had and new restaurants
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
If you can afford to, keep working, even if you have to do more pro bono. There is a lot of Ct appointed work out there too
– - And our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
It is obvious that you need to work hard but equally important to learn how to market yourself and build relationships
That’s all very good advice. Thanks for tweeting with us today; was great to learn about you and your practice
No problem. This was a lot of fun! Thanks
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Estate Planning, Family Law, Holyoke MA, Real Estate | Comments Off on @liquidluncher@eppink
November 30th, 2010
Today we’re tweeting with legal aid lawyer, justice architect and friend to the poor and oppressed @eppink
This is the funnest thing I’ve done today (I hope). What do I do first?
- @Eppink, thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @Eppink?
I’m about home, family, hard times, whiskey, salvation, rebellion, patriotism, tragedy, rowdiness, heartbreak &love. &Mother. & God.
And my opinions throughout the day are prob not those of my employer. Just to be clear.
– - Understood. Tell us about your law practice.
I’m a legal aid lawyer, providing civil legal services to disadvantaged families who can’t really access them any other way.
– - Can you talk a bit more about your clients? Who are they? What types of problems are they facing?
Low-income families (<$2300/mo fam of 4) in crisis- e.g., abt to be homeless, escaping violent abuse, losing access to meds.
– - You wrote that 80% of the poor seeking legal aid are turned away. How do you decide which cases to take on?
We set formal priorities w/ client and board input. & then each case is assessed for merit and potential impact. It’s tough.
– - What happens to the ones you can’t help? Do they have other options?
Great q’n. Pro bono or self-help is about it. The latter is very hard for those w/ little education and under v high stress.
– - Can you tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had?
I have some bad faith foreclosure cases rt now w/ major legal import. Most signif to me tho are the dozens who’ve cried in gratitude
– - That must be extremely satisfying. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
We look together at all that’s going on & try to minimize stressors, so they can make good decisions while in a tough spot.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
It’s all off the charts. Job loss, budget cuts, & record income disparity are leaving all kinds in our lobby. I hope it’s atypical.
– - Me too. You’ve called yourself an “emergency room lawyer.” What does that mean?
To be effective at this work, you can only triage, treat, and move on. & some DV clients literally arrive at my desk bloody.
– - What’s the hardest part about being a legal aid lawyer?
Limited resources. No $$ usually for depos, fancy trial prep, etc. It’s like trying to fix a transmission w/ a hammer & some twine.
– - So what can be done to improve the current state of legal aid in this country? Is money the biggest obstacle? The only one?
Besides $$, reduce the cost & complexity of common legal experiences (divorce, bankruptcy). & require the bar to serve all.
– - You’ve said that you were homeless before starting law school. How did you get from there to here? What did it teach you?
W/ lots of help from friends, family, & mentors. It’s taught me the honesty, humility, and common sense that too many lawyers need.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I design justice. Then build it with sweat, beer, and carefully chosen words. And then defend it from its enemies.
– - That’s fantastic! What led you to become active on Twitter? Has it been a worthwhile endeavor?
I joined @twitter with the surge at start of @sxsw 2007. It motivates me to keep track of caselaw & legislation, mainly.
– - Are you active in other Web 2.0 / social media channels? Which ones?
Not really. Can’t stomach @facebook, decided @foursquare wasn’t helping much, but do keep up w/ @linkedin. I mean to keep it simple.
– - What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
The profession handles the #accesstojustice problem like an alcoholic in denial. We’re a public utility leaving millions in the cold
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
In the USA, we live in Rome. If we don’t check our decadence, it will look ever more embarrassing for the bench and bar.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Easiest one yet! The same thing: “leave something of sweetness and substance in the mouth of the world,” however I could.
– - How do you want to be remembered? (And no fair giving the same answer as the last question….)
How abt another quote? What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Grow & handcraft vege food, hunt out sublime nooks of NW wilderness, bike around cars in DT Boise. And most of all, share.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
1 Network to build trust & respect. 2 Soak in CLE whenever possible. 3 Be vigilant to avoid emotional and career dead ends.
– - And finally, what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
If yr going b/c you want to help people, then think about other ways before you commit. If yr going for more $$, don’t.
Great advice. Thank you so much for answering our questions today. It was a pleasure getting to know you and your practice
This was an unmitigated blast! Thanks ever so much for the opportunity.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Boise ID, Legal Aid | Comments Off on @eppink@mirriam71
November 23rd, 2010
Criminal Defense and Immigration Lawyer
Founder, MSZ Law
Author of Not Guilty No Way law blog
Pro Bono Associate at Afghans for Civil Society
Mother of maniacal twin boys
Today we’re tweeting w/ criminal defense attorney, mom of maniacal twin boys, former Ass’t Attorney General and Ass’t DA @Mirriam71
- @Mirriam71, thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @Mirriam71?
I’m a mom, lawyer, wife. I have a blog called notguiltynoway. Just coming back after a hiatus at home with the twins
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I’m a solo practitioner w/ an office in Takoma Park, MD. Opened in May of this year. So far, so good.
– - Congratulations! What type of clients do you represent?
immigration and criminal defense, and frequently both at the same time. I toyed with gp, but I know what I’m good at and this is it.
– - What is the single most important legal issue affecting your clients?
Freedom. They want to stay in U.S., not go to jail or have liberty impeded. Is it a legal issue? I don’t know.
– - Critical issue either way…. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Google or their bff’s cousin isn’t their lawyer, I am. Their case is unique. They have to trust me and not the internet.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Drug client. Went into drug court, came out the other side. Got invite to 40th bday, invite said “he’s 40 because of you”
– - Wow. That’s powerful. Why do your clients hire you?
not bc of my website! Maybe bc I’m honest? I’m trying to figure that out so I can add it to my website. : )
– - Tell us about Afghans for Civil Society. What do they do? What do you do for them? Why?
they do charitable work in Afghanistan. Dad is in Kabul so I help w/getting medical supplies to the hosp where he works.
– - You spent several years as an Assistant DA before joining a criminal defense firm? What led you to make that change?
when I realized justice isn’t really blind. I was incredibly naive. 9/11 changed that for me. And, I’m much better at this.
– - What are the biggest challenges facing criminal defense lawyers? How do you respond to them, day in and day out?
people don’t get what we do. We can give them the right answers, but its hard to explain how we can do it.
also, the CDL bar is divided and bc of that, the govt is able to get away with a lot of shit.
– - Wish I had 23 Tweets; would love to hear more…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I tell them I’m a CDL and imm lawyer. They say “wow, that’s cool” I say “yeah, it really is” I tell them I fight the Man.
– - You blog at Not Guilty (http://bit.ly/9V5Mjb). Who do you write it for? Why should they read it?
I write for myself & for @ScottGreenfield. & for folks who think this stuff isn’t their problem. Read it bc it’s awesome.
– - I agree 100%. Your blog posts are often very personal. Where do you draw the line between your public and private life?
in 2004 when I started I was anon & had 4 readers. It was never intended as mktg. Now I have to think more about that line.
the infertility posts are very personal. But they are searched a lot. I leave them up bc it gives people hope. Stay tuned!
– - Why did you decide to become active on Twitter? Has it been a worthwhile endeavor?
@MarkWBennett told me I’d find like minded people. I thought it was stupid & a waste of time. Twitter! Ha! I was wrong.
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any referrals or client engagements?
I don’t really understand web 2.0 but I’ve gotten referrals from folks I’ve initially ‘met’ online. Not twitter though.
– - What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
We still get a bad rap. Too many lawyers still doing bad work. It needs to stop. We need to regulate ourselves better.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
If you’d told me 3 yrs ago it would be like this now I would’ve called you a liar, so I have no idea what 10 yrs will bring
I hope we go back to having real offices though. I’m old fashioned like that.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
go to culinary school. Or a professional break dancer. A breakdancing chef? There’s nothing else I’d rather do, honestly.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
as someone who doesn’t suck, who did good work and who gave a shit. That’s not a lot to ask, right?
– - Not at all. What do you do when you’re not working?
I run, chase my kids around, listen to records (the vinyl kind) plan vacations I never go on and hang out w/friends
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
volunteer, get experience. Catholic charities always needs help. Don’t fall into the contract atty trap. It’s a dead end.
– - And the final question of our interview: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
If you don’t want to practice law, don’t go. It’s hard work. Don’t do it half assed.
Thanks so much for this great interview. I really enjoyed tweeting with you and learning about you and your practice
thank you! It was pretty fun actually.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Criminal Defense, Immigration, Washington DC | Comments Off on @mirriam71
