@nashlawfirm
November 16th, 2010
Medical Malpractice and Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
Head of Nash & Associates, LLC
Contributing Author to the Eye Opener legal blog
Today we’re tweeting with DC medical malpractice / personal injury lawyer and legal blogger @Nashlawfirm
- @Nashlawfirm, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Nashlawfirm?
Lawyers & staff who luv their job of helping others, care about people are smart as hell & bring passion 2 the job every day…
Peeps who inspire ea other 2 luv what we do & be the best we can be, 2 use the skills we have to assure victim’s rights
– - Please tell us about your law practice.
Boutique law firm in MD & DC w many yrs of successful exper. in civil litigation (med mal, catastrophic injury)…
…former defense lawyers, who now represent people who are severely injured by bad healthcare and conduct of others.
– - Tell us a little more about the clients you represent? Who are they?
Mainly we represent victims & families of victims – real people, whose lives have been devastated by medical malpractice.
– - What is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
So many cynics think it’s all about money. It simply isn’t! Clients just want 2 know-what happened? Why? Can they have their…
…voices heard and their cases judged by fair minded people. Are you surprised to learn – that’s what it IS about?
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
We make our philosophy clear: bad outcomes do NOT equal malpractice. However, when people are injured by care that is simply bad…
…we will bring our skill and experiences 2 make sure their voice is heard. We’re very clear – it is not just about monetary…
…compensation. It’s about having people who cause injury be held accountable & then change their ways so others don’t suffer
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Too many to count, frankly. It’s been a great career. I’ve represented so many wonderful people. In some small way…
…I hope I’ve touched their lives 4 the better. People w injured kids or who lost children or a spouse, great folks with…
… serious injuries & needs that we’ve been able to help in some small way. How do you pick one or two out? You can’t
– - Understood. Why do your clients hire you?
For our experience, trial skills, knowledge of law, medicine, the courts and not least – the passion we being to their case
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Representing people when they or family member has been severely injured by medical malpractice. Yes, that’s our specialty-
– - Makes sense…. We hear a lot of talk about a “patients’ bill of rights.” What exactly does that mean?
4 brevity, here’s a link: “what” – http://bit.ly/cTmH9Q. What started as a broader bill covering not only accessibility…
..but rights and FREEDOMS- http://bit.ly/aGE3Af -became a law stopping insurance company abuses in terms of coverage
– - Doesn’t health care reform address many of those same issues? Is that enough?
It addressed coverage issues mostly. It never really addressed core issues such as “refusal of care” “informed consent”…
…meaningful protection of privacy rights – basically some of the key elements of the contract b/w a doctor & patient…
…which is the type of interchange, responsibilities & partnered care-giving that is missing many times and leads to lawsuits
– - How do you see your practice evolving over the next few years? Will you still be fighting the same battles?
One would hope that bad care will end and people won’t be devastated..then I could be a full-time blogger (smile)…
…but why do I suspect that won’t happen soon? So yes, I’ll still be here fighting 4 patient & victim rights. God willing!
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
Much the same thing I’m telling your audience: I represent people who are the victims of real medical malpractice and real…
…wrongdoing. We don’t sue people because of bad outcomes; we represent people who are victims of bad, negligent care
– - Your firm has a blog, Eye Opener (http://bit.ly/bqnokj). Who is it for? Why should they read it?
Our mission is to be an aggregator 4 all – medicine & law, issues affecting your daily life. Trends, news, warnings to make people …
…more knowledgeable about their healthcare rights so they can be smarter advocates for their own well-being and safety.
– - In addition to the blog, you’re active on Twitter and have a Facebook page. What’s your social media strategy?
multifactorial: getting the “word” out is our mission, networking w some incredible people (and we’ve met so many)…
…sharing knowledge, thoughts, opinions. Getting known? Perhaps, but I’ve learned – that’s not the real value of social media.
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Yes, but again, that’s really not our goal. We do very well with our rankings thru blogs, SM – but not our SM objective…
…when I started 1 yr ago, it was all about US. My eyes are now opened – it’s about connections…sharing, networking. Luv it!
– - Sounds like a perfect strategy. Let’s switch gears: what’s the most sig issue currently facing the legal profession?
Real access 2 justice 4 ALL! Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement, litigation costs – they’re the insidious forms of tort reform.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Hopefully caregivers stepping up and admitting fault when they should, early case resolution, creative fees – put the patient FIRST
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Teach, build my networking skills, be creative in this expanding world of sharing knowledge via SM and the web
– - How do you want to be remembered?
Someone who truly cared about the law and people’s rights. Someone who made a difference in others’ lives
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Not sure when that is (smile) Traveling, catching-up w family & friends, learning new things, photography – quiet relaxation
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Don’t give up your pursuit of what you worked so hard 2 obtain. There’s always work for GOOD lwyrs who care. Find it.
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Understand that what you are studying is a living, breathing instrument to do so much good for so many people…
…it’s not just a job; never take the responsibility of representing people for granted. Follow your dream!
That’s very good advice. Thank you so much for tweeting with us today; enjoyed learning about you and your practice
Thanks to you, Lance. It was fun. I appreciate the opportunity very much. Be well…Brian
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Baltimore, Blawger, Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury, Washington DC | Comments Off on @nashlawfirm@priyalawyer
November 4th, 2010
Founder and Member at PMD Legal, PLLC
Virtual General Counsel for Entrepreneurs
In-House Contract Attorney
Adjunct Media Law Professor at Lawrence Technical University
Today we’re tweeting with @Priyalawyer, Virtual GC for entrepreneurs, In-House Contract Attorney and adjunct media law professor
- @Priyalawyer, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Priyalawyer?
I am a Business Attorney, Adjunct Professor of Media Law, Wife and Mother. I enjoy music, dance, politics and travelling.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I help entrepreneurs start businesses. I draft, review and negotiate business contracts . . . .
. . . and I advise on legal issues using social media.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
I represent mostly solo-preneurs and entrepreneurs, but also small businesses with less than 10 employees.
– - And what’s the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
An important legal issue for entrepreneurs would be protecting their assets and limiting their liability.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I offer a free half-hour consultation with new clients to assess their legal needs and outline a legal plan and strategy.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Helping a startup client oppose a confusingly similar trademark and then get their trademark registered.
– - That must have been very satisfying. Why do your clients hire you?
It was. Clients hire me because of my large law firm experience but with affordable rates, and my ability to work virtually.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Reviewing, drafting and negotiating contracts because those are the daily needs of a business.
– - Tell us a little bit more about a Virtual General Counsel. How involved do you get in your clients’ businesses?
I get very involved. Just as lawyers in law firms serve their clients from their office, so do I. Skype helps too.
– - You teach Media Law at Lawrence Technological University. How does teaching make you a better lawyer?
teaching makes me learn, improves my legal research skills and my client communication skills.
– - You’ve practiced at some pretty big firms. What led you to strike out on your own?
Started out of necessity after losing the big firm job in the economic downturn, but it was a blessing in disguise.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I help businesses stay out of trouble.
– - Nice…. How do you generally market your practice? Does social media play a big part in your marketing efforts?
I market through traditional forms of networking as well as online. Social media has expanded my network.
– - And how long have you been active on Twitter? Has your Twitter strategy changed over that time?
I’ve been tweeting since March 2009. It has changed over time as the number of people I follow grows.
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Twitter led me to the Adjunct Professor job. Facebook and Twitter has also led to referrals, but no new engagements yet.
– - What would you say is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
In this economy, billable hours is hurting law firms. Alternative fee arrangements like mine are more attractive to clients.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
I see a consolidation of big firms, more small and solo firms, but more work kept in-house at large companies.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I always said that if I was not practicing law I would want to work at Nordstrom’s . . .
. . . But I would like to run for political office one day
– - We’ll watch for that! How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered for being a loving wife and mother first and foremost, but also as someone who has helped friends succeed.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I spend most of that time with my family, as well as spending time with friends. I also like to workout and watch TV.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Advice to under or unemployed lawyers: Know that everything happens for a reason and that everything will eventually work out . . .
. . . but there are many other things you could do with your law degree other than practicing law.
– - And finally, our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
read @kevinhouchin’s book Fuel The Spark …
I suggest finding an attorney mentor to explain what practicing law is really like.
Useful advice. Thanks so much for tweeting with us today; enjoyed learning more about you and your practice
Thank you!
@AKunkel_GPLaw
October 26th, 2010
Commercial real estate, agriculture, and transactional lawyer
Partner, Givens Pursley LLP
Board Member, Sustainable Futures
Today we’re tweeting w/ Idaho RE lawyer, foodie & winie, & Mountain States Super Lawyers “Rising Star in real estate”
- @AKunkel_GPLaw, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @AKunkel_GPLaw?
Second year partner at a mid-size full service firm, in Boise, Idaho, married to a State Appellate PD, 3 cats, 1 dog.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
Commercial real estate, ag law and biz/corp transactions, lending, with a good measure of liquor licensing thrown in
– - Everything is better with a good measure of liquor licensing…. What type of clients do you represent?
Entrepreneurs, banks, restaurateurs, business folks, farmers, you name it, no one kind of client, peeps who want to do deals
– - That’s a diverse group. What is the single most important legal issue affecting them?
Lack of available financing. Deals there, pple want to them, but finding $ is impossible, multifamily sector is strong tho
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
It may seem expensive but it’s a lot cheaper to do the deal right first than litigate about it later. Sorry litigator tweeps
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
BoDo, mixed use prjct w/ enviro, bond, reg, city development participation, finance elements. gr8 exp 4 then baby lawyer
– - Why do your clients hire you?
being dealmaker instead of dealbreaker. Clients don’t want lawyers killing deals, think outside the box to get things done
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
REO properties, smaller one off transactions, business restructuring. No, practice was 80% finance before Gr8 Recession
– - You touched on this briefly: how is the economic crisis affecting your clients? Are you seeing any signs of recovery?
Lack of financing stopped deals. Yes, creative financing helping deals 2 get some traction. Non RE biz and HC pretty strong
– - You’re on the Board of Sustainable Futures (http://bit.ly/bmYue4). How does that experience make you a better lawyer?
Important to realize its not all about making $, but helping people. It humbles you, puts even the bad times in perspective
– - How is real estate law evolving in response to the growing demand for green building and sustainability?
lot of uncertainty b/c of differing standards. Hinders decision making, a great time for RE attys to counsel and advise.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I am a “dirt/business lawyer” with a niche specialty in liquor, liquor licenses that is.
– - How do you generally market your practice? Does social media play a big part in your marketing efforts?
Good wrk, word of mouth, prof org m-ships/r-ships, community involvement. Still getting handle on how 2 best use FB & Twtr
– - How long have you been active on Twitter? Has your Twitter strategy changed over that time?
bit over a yr. Use more actively for info; thought sharing, communication, connection with community, no longer on sidelines
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
some based on website 411, but rly allows me 2 keep in touch w peers leading 2 referrals. Relationships bring clients
– - Indeed. Let’s switch gears here: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Maintaining quality standards in a super fast communication world. Good work still takes time, clients need to understand
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Billable hour will be exception, more flat fees, lifestyle choice will structure practice instead of $ no hard offices
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
independent wealth, no really, I’d love to go to culinary school, or event planning, using management skills I’ve learned
– - How do you want to be remembered?
Prof: a person who gets things done, trustworthy. Personal: the most positive pessimist ever met, more than my job, sincere
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Worry about not working. Seriously, watch a lot of sports (Go UK!), golf (badly), volunteer, garden, search out delish food
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Its just $, don’t get lost in the stress, maintain r/ships, pple survived worse economy. Need to follow own advice at times
– - Finally, what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Think of JD outside of the trad’l practice. JDs open lots of doors, not just law & Econ will get better, always does
Thank you so much, Anne, for your good advice and a great interview. I enjoyed learning about you and your practice
Thanks. This was good fun.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Agriculture Law, Boise ID, Real Estate, Transactional | Comments Off on @AKunkel_GPLaw@hampshirelawyer
October 19th, 2010
UK Litigation / Disputes Lawyer
Today we’re tweeting with Hampshire, UK-based litigation / disputes lawyer, blogger, photographer, and podcaster @HampshireLawyer
- @HampshireLawyer, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @HampshireLawyer?
a 51 year old husband and father who happens to earn his living as a lawyer
– - Tell us about your law practice.
now in a small country town, mainly representing private clients, soon to move to a small commercial firm in a larger town
– - What type of clients do you represent?
private individuals and owner-managed businesses
– - And what is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Private clients – the value of their property, protecting that value, leaving something for their kids …
… Biz clients – it all boils down to keeping head above water
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
litigation is expensive; consider alternatives; don’t go to Court unless committed to the time hassle expense
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
11 years ago instructed by 3 guys with small co. Engineers with no business sense. Small case but to lose would kill co…
…8 years later they sold for £m+. I still represent one of them (others retired)
– - Wow, that’s great. Why do your clients hire you?
reputation of firm, recommendation to me. I try to cut to the core issues to achieve cost effective outcomes
– - I’m sure they appreciate that. What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
no 1 thing, but sadly a lot of neighbour disputes, boundaries; often caused by car parking space needs. All take, no give
– - You recently announced a move from a private client practice to a commercial practice. Why the change?
litigation for private clients is dying on its feet. Process too expensive and risky. Best advice not to go there…
… So with diminishing workload/fee income I had to look for the work where it is. That means focussing on business clients
– - Do you think you’re alone in changing your approach? Will access to lawyers eventually be limited to wealthy elite?
I doubt I’m alone. If I am, there will be some extinct dinosaurs out there. Access to justice is a real issue …
… I think there needs to be a “simple cases” track with a slimmed down procedure for disclosure etc, 1/2 day trial …
… Fixed costs awarded to winner. Possibly rough justice, but a product I could sell
– - Interesting. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I used to say I play sax at Ronnie Scotts (jazz club in London). Until I met someone who did! …
… Often still flippant, something like fat cat lawyer manqué.
– - How do you market your law practice? How has it changed over the past five years?
stop waiting for work to come through door. Work the contacts. Visit clients (esp biz) at their place. I don’t believe …
… in offering freebies or loss leaders to new clients. Prefer to say meter not running till we agree I can achieve something
– - You’re very active on Twitter (as @hampshirelawyer and @gaborelectric). What’s your Twitter strategy?
strategy, moi? If anything, it’s about engaging, being known, profile raising. If a strategy, it’s still being worked out
– - 🙂 You’ve got 3 blogs, including one on law (http://bit.ly/9iRKu9). Why do you blog? Why should others visit them?
Legal blog started as part self-promotion, part to sell blog idea to firm. Rely on others/twitter to spread word…
… I guess others visit following links with reference to subject matter of post as of interest …
… music podcast a hobby so visitors have common interest. Ditto photo-blog. 2 other blogs r for me don’t care if no visitors
– - I’d say they’re worth visiting. Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
surprised but yes. Instructions both via twitter (lawyer referral) and anonymous participation in online legal advice forum
– - Very interesting. Let’s change gears now: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
finding and maintaining the quality work justifying realistic fees; pressures impacting ability to deliver quality service
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
at my level, more smaller niche specialist expert firms. Fewer high street generalists. Black hole areas of no legal service
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
No idea! Law was the one idea for Uni course my parents never talked me out of! Possibly teacher, probably languages?
– - How do you want to be remembered?
other than for my striking resemblance to Bryan Ferry? As someone who made a difference, someone who cared
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
indie music; photography; garden & enjoy home grown fruit & veg; support parents (dad had bad stroke April); family stuff
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Stay active; keep brain engaged; consider pro-bono type work; blog and tweet; network network network
– - Last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
not enough just to be a good lawyer (although a given). Understand the business of law. Make, nurture, keep contacts …
… especially your non lawyer contemporaries: when you are senior they will be too. Do favours; pay it forward
That’s very good advice. Thanks so much for tweeting with us today; enjoyed learning more about you & your practice
You’re welcome, I enjoyed it. It’s a challenge to fit something worth saying into 140 characters! Good evening.
@jcelaw
October 5th, 2010
Wellington, NZ, Barrister and Solicitor
Information and Privacy Lawyer
District Inspector for Mental Health
Today, we’re tweeting with public law and privacy barrister and solicitor @jcelaw, the first Kiwi lawyer to be featured on 22 Tweets
- @jcelaw, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @jcelaw?
A 44 y.o NZ lawyer with two kids, one cat, one partner, own law firm, – advocate, adviser, educator, commentator
– - Tell us about your law practice.
Its a mix. My main speciality is “Information Law” which is privacy, IP & FOI/RTI, I also do investigations & inquiries
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Whoever pops into my inbox or shows up at the door-Govt agencies, individuals, corporations, charities the lot
– - A diverse group…. What would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Doing what they do in a lawful & ethical way that is not going to lose the trust of their clients + getting the best representation
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
How lucky we are to have found each other 😉
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I once took a class action for 100 psychiatrically abused clients (from the ’70s). They ended up being paid millions
– - That must have been tremendously satisfying. Why do your clients hire you?
It was – Specialist knowledge, straight talking, winning smile – also, I can access influence for lobbying
– - Always good to have an ace in the hole… What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Just now I’m doing lots of work on how to balance privacy against better delivery of govt services – that’s pretty typical
– - How does one go from information lawyer to District Inspector for Mental Health? Is it a logical progression?
No not logical, but I like the mix -there but for the grace of God etc. I’m a watchdog, and work with real people in that role …
It kind of lead on from that class action I was talking about – got me a bit of credibility in that community
– - You represent both private clients and governmental organizations. Do you find that they have differing objectives?
Everyone wants their point of view put as powerfully as possible.Here -govt *usually* wants 2 know how 2 do the right thing
– - What’s at the center of the name suppression debate in New Zealand? What does it mean for NZ online privacy?
Perceptions of privilege & inequality depending on your side of the tracks-constant tension btwn privacy &accountability…
plus a blogger’s campaign to breach suppression lead to a rethink of internet regulation
Some of the proposals are pretty short sighted, and could adversely affect open internet & privacy
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
It depends who I’m talking to – I’m either a champion of the underdog, or a safe pair of hands for your organisation #cynicalIknow
– - Practical, perhaps. How do you generally market your practice? Does social media play a big part in your marketing strategy?
Word of (my big) mouth mostly -as for SM- no marketing value yet IMO, but I have used SM for building support for a case…
marketing value will come & I hope to be ready – that’s what I’m focussing on positioning for it could be huge
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I ws innocent of Twit til early ‘09, but wanted to garner sympathy for a client.Now I like to engage, share, inform, connect, amuse
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
I have always kept a fairly active media presence, and web 2.0 is a natural extension of that. More will come I’m sure
– - Indeed. Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Hmm -tough one -keeping up, remaining credible, enabling, rather than profit draining, working with clients, being creative
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Far less litigation orientation, and more facilitative, enabling advice. Fewer & fewer can afford to litigate
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
If I wasn’t a lawyer I’d probably write a great novel, blog, in other words, be unemployed haha
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I love the outdoors, hanging with my family, with friends, movies, reading, arts, theatre, travel & a nice single malt
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Cut your rate, work pro bono, get involved – its all experience, and good things will come of it, learn to paint,read poems
– - How do you want to be remembered?
That’s an easy one – As a great dad
– - That brings us to our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Pass your exams but keep your perspective, the law is about human interaction, it does not exist separate from people
That’s great advice. Thank you very much for an informative and enjoyable interview!
Thanks @22Twts that was fun – excuse the pomposity – I don’t usually give advice to people at law school, or underemployed lawyers 🙂
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Information law, Privacy, Public law, Wellington NZ | Comments Off on @jcelaw@in_house_lawyer
September 30th, 2010
Head of Legal at Latitude Digital Marketing Limited
Author of In-House Lawyer legal blog
Social Media Enthusiast
Today we’re excited to be tweeting w/ @in_house_lawyer, Head of Legal at an online digital mktg co? Our 1st in-house interviewee!
- @in_house_lawyer thank you so much for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @in_house_lawyer?
Hello there Lance, thank you for the opportunity
I’m Melanie Hatton. In-house counsel for @Latitude_Group. I’m also a mum to a 5 year old son and a social media enthusiast
– - Tell us about @Latitude_Group. What does it do?
@Latitude_Group is leading the digital revolution! We provide PPC SEO display and other online marketing solutions. (1/2)
We make our clients visible on the web and target their online customer base effectively. Its an exciting industry
– - Sounds like interesting work. How do you describe your role at @Latitude_Group?
I wear many hats. I’m the lawyer, but I also manage the HR, training & development and office services for the company
– - What are your company’s typical legal needs?
I cover the co/co, employment, and litigation; and use externals for corp finance, property, an occasional second opinion
– - How many outside firms do you generally work with? Is that the right number?
Just 2 and I’d like to get that to 1! Its cost-efficient and makes for a better relationship with more value-add (1/2)
Some in-house teams operate a ‘horses for courses’ approach, but that doesn’t work for us
– - Let’s talk about your selection of lawyers. What type of sales / marketing pitch do you respond well to?
One which demonstrates a quality and dynamic service, with experts who are enthusiastic about our industry
– - And what type of sales talk is guaranteed to send you running? How often do you hear it?
Any pitch which doesn’t recognise need to work in a co-ordinated way with in-house team. Not seen too often , but happens
– - Does social media enter into the equation when you’re evaluating outside counsel? How?
I warm to any firm/lawyer using soc med; I’d worry if the firm I’d chosen for its position in a technology industry (1/2)
.. started to fall behind the field. Like I said before, I like lawyers who are enthusiastic about my industry
– - Makes perfect sense… What about fee arrangements? Hourly billing, alt fees, etc: what’s typical for your company?
Fees based on value of product/service delivered, and not the time it takes to deliver it is important. So fixed or capped
– - Finally, how important are personal relationships in the hiring process? Do you hire lawyers you’ve never met?
I’ve never hired a lawyer whom I’ve never met. Personality and cultural-fit are very important factors
– - What does the Legal Services Act mean for you as a client? Better service? Lower costs? Something else?
More competition in the legal market place I hope. Lawyers finding more creative ways to provide their services (1/2)
Not just creativity in terms of fee structures, but the services themselves and how they’re delivered
– - Let’s talk about you. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
12 months ago. 1st obj was to obtain a daily legal know-how stream. Now, I share my own know-how, develop my niche & network
– - You blog (http://bit.ly/bdXlay), are active on Twitter, etc. Where do you draw the line between public and private?
I blog/tweet law, work & my perspective of both. I’ve a separate twitter acc for personal tweets & I never tweet about what I eat!
– - You were in private practice before you went in-house. What led you to make the switch?
I trained 50/50 in-house/pp. When I was in pp I was on secondment in-house most of the time. I’ve always thought it…(1/2)
…an honour for a company to put their faith in an employed team of lawyers to be their preferred legal resource.
– - What’s a typical day for the Head of Legal at an online digital marketing company? How much law does it involve?
Signing off client/supplier contracts, ensuring the company has a corporate “memory”, keeping up with industry developments. 1/2
I use my legal skills 100% of the time, but my legal knowledge 50%. The other 50% is running the business support team
– - What is the most significant issue currently facing lawyers in commerce and industry?
The ECJ Akzo case on #privilege is the biggie. We’re no longer afforded privilege in EU competition matters. (1/2)
The decision devalues inhouse lawyers and we work so hard to bring value to our companies. Disappointing
– - And what is the most significant legal issue currently facing the digital marketing industry?
Behavioural advertising is in the spotlight for its privacy implications in a huge way, legally & ethically… (1/2)
The exchange of personal data for online advertising and information is shaping the digital landscape we live in
– - Indeed. What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
A journalist or magazine editor. And if I didn’t have to work at all, I’d put back into the local community/village/school
– - How do you want to be remembered?
This is the toughest question! I’d just like for the people who matter to me to remember me in a positive way
– - This one should be easier: what do you do when you’re not working?
I’ve recently taken up photography but mainly I keep my 5yo entertained: swimming, walks in forest, building lego star wars
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Be creative & adventurous about how you apply your knowledge & skills to keep a profile in the profession. Soc med helps
– - Finally, what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Find an entirely unrelated interest too. That & your legal wisdom will connect in future & make you stand out in the crowd
Thank you v much for this great interview. I truly enjoyed tweeting with you and getting your in-house perspective!
I’ve had a brilliant time this evening too, thankyou for having me on your twitterview, and thanks to everyone who followed
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Cheshire UK, In-house | Comments Off on @in_house_lawyer@cyberlaw
September 23rd, 2010
International intellectual property attorney
Member, Davis McGrath LLC
Author of legal blog Cyberlaw Central
Today we’re tweeting with Chicago IP attorney, blogger and passionate proponent of Towel Day @cyberlaw
Thanks for the opportunity, Lance. I do know where my towel is! 🙂
- @cyberlaw thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @cyberlaw?
I am Kevin Thompson, a member of the firm @davismcgrath in Chicago, IL. I am also a husband, father of 3 boys, and friend.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I practice Internet, copyright, and trademark law. I help many individuals & businesses with international trademarks too.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Our clients range from individuals to small & large businesses. We help them protect their most valuable assets online & off
– - What would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those individuals and businesses?
The hot topic is online defamation, with so many small businesses going online and getting unearned negative reviews.
– - Imagine that’s a very big problem…. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
After “Hello”, I tell them that we work with them to provide the best service in the most cost effective manner possible.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
This year we helped a small local business protect its brand against a competitor, from C&D letter to lawsuit to settlement.
– - Congrats on a great result! Why do your clients hire you?
Clients hire me because they trust me, they know I can help them, and that I can do so without breaking the bank.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Trademark applications and clearance of new marks keep me busy. That’s typical, as brands need protecting in any economy.
– - Indeed…. What’s the next big frontier of IP law? Who will be most affected by it?
As we expand into more global markets, clients will need protection in more foreign countries as well as the USA. (1/2)
Small and medium businesses will be most affected when their brands are already taken overseas and can’t be registered. (2/2)
– - How well do current laws (eg DMCA) protect IP rights? Are additional protections needed? How is the law evolving?
The DMCA works well for some copyright holders, but for others it is merely protection for an outdated business model. (1/2)
Better codification of fair use would be appreciated to eliminate some of the judicial gray area. Changes are slow. 🙂 (2/2)
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I help individuals and businesses protect their most valuable assets, both online and off.
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I joined Twitter in May of 2008. It took me a while to figure out Twitter, but now I love it. Tweetdeck helps. 🙂 (1/2)
My objectives are to build relationships and let people know of interesting articles in my field. Same obj. all through (2/2)
– - You blog at Cyberlaw Central (http://bit.ly/adZ51o). Who do you write it for? Why should they read it?
I write for those interested in the “big picture” issues of the Internet, how it affects us, and the law. It’s fun to write.
– - It shows…. You also have a Facebook page for your blog (http://bit.ly/drHasy). What’s your read on Facebook for lawyers?
Facebook has been an interesting experiment. I try to keep my personal profile separate from the blog’s page. (1/2)
I like the advice from John Jantsch (@ducttape) – Facebook is one more outpost leading people to the blog. And me. (2/2)
– - Makes sense…. What specific impact on referrals / client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
I’ve received some good referrals from lawyers who needed local counsel, knew me and knew we were cost effective. (1/2)
I’ve also had happier clients who knew their lawyer was a real person who could strike up a conversation about #DrWho. (2/2)
– - Again, makes perfect sense… Let’s switch gears: What’s the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
The death of old bus. models. Biglaw vs Solo/Small Firms with Alt fee arrangements & providing more cost effective services.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Small firms/solos will dominate due to their ability to be cost effective in providing tremendous service to happier clients
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I’d be involved with computers in some fashion. Btwn undergrad & law school I worked in software sales for @UWDoit #badgers
– - How do you want to be remembered?
Thks 2 #7habits, I know I want to be remembered as a human being who did his best for his family, his clients and the world.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I enjoy Sci Fi TV (#Dr Who, #BSG, #Firefly), reading, and playing with my boys. These days, lots of soccer and scouts. 🙂
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Hang in there! Remember you’re in a service industry, so serve the clients you have well. It’ll get better. (1/2)
For those without clients, consider pro bono service to get experience. Try helping the #EFF, for example. (2/2)
– - Our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
I tell them to read Outliers by @Gladwell, put in 1000 hours and be prepared when opportunity comes. And to have a towel. 🙂
Yes, I’m convinced that a towel is good to have on hand. Thanks very much for a great interview; I enjoyed it very much!
Thanks, Lance. It was fun! So long, and thanks for all the fish!
@melissabrumback
September 14th, 2010
Construction and Business Dispute Attorney
Partner, Ragsdale Liggett PLLC
Author, Construction Law in North Carolina blog
Today we’re tweeting with @melissabrumback: NC construction and business dispute lawyer and blawger & “Triangle Impact Law Leader”
- @melissabrumback, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @melissabrumback?
Hello& thxs. NC construction law attny/blogger. Avid reader, Daily Show addict, tar heeler. A “good person” as well lawyer.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I rep companies in civil cases: construction (design defect, delay claims, liens); also some med mal, tort, & contract clms.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mostly architects & engineers. Also contractors, subs, developers, and business owners, & the occasional wronged homeowner.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Standard of care. Owners & contractors do not understand the A/E does not guarantee perfect design. Managing expectations.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
They must understand how aggressive to be is often a business decision. Lawsuits cost $ and take time from productive work.
– - Indeed. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Rep an A/E firm w design flaw in plans. We argued design flaw didnt cause damages, & won ($0 verdict) after 2wk jury trial.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
They know I know construction issues: change orders, RFIs, critical path, etc. I can minimize (or eliminate) their exposure.
– - Compelling arguments…. What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Liens & collections are up. But so too are negligence clms. When economy is bad, people sue rather than move to next oppty.
– - What’s the next big frontier in construction law? What should your clients be doing to prepare for it?
Green design. Make sure your contract doesn’t overpromise. Have LEED project contracts reviewed for insur and risk issues.
– - You were GC for the NC Jaycees. Does your representing a non-profit help your corporate clients? How?
I learned to minimze risk *while* meeting biz goals. Not just say “no”. Helps me meet client goals vs just being roadblock.
– - Valuable skills to have…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I defend companies (mostly construction co’s) from frivolous lawsuits. (Can you tell I usually work the defense side?)
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
In May. I resisted but @kellyduffort sold me on it. Now see it can be very useful tool to meet thought leaders in my field.
– - Tell us about Construction Law in NC (http://bit.ly/bShILb). Who do you write for? Why should they read it?
I write for A/E/C biz folk, to give them tips to stay out of trouble. A few preventive measures = lots of ROI at end of day.
– - How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
Too much! I aim for 1hr/5 days, but sometimes much more. I schedule blog posts, then join twitter, linkedin as I can.
– - Too much time is easy to do…. Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Just now getting momentum- 2 direct referrals in 2 wks! Also, getting to know other constr law professionals = invaluable.
– - Congrats for that! Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
People “doing law” via web on the cheap w/o lawyers. Hurts their biz & ours. Web should supplement, not replace ur lawyer.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
More online interact & cloud case docs, but will always need lawyer you can trust, and to actually go to court for you!
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I’d own a used bookstore/café, where I read the inventory while writing my great American Novel. (Also my retirement plan!)
– - How do you want to be remembered?
“She was a lawyer, but nice despite that fact.” No reason you can’t practice law with a heart.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Time w/ family is most important. Reading, traveling, marathon Law & Order sessions can also be fun!
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Show genuine interest in and be kind to everyone. You never know who knows who or who can help you. Hang in there!
– - And our last question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Classmates =future referrals-> stay in touch. Join bar committees; meet practicing lawyers. It’s never too early to network.
Valuable advice. And a great interview. Thank you very much for answering our questions today
Thanks so much for having me!
@bcjb
September 9th, 2010
Intellectual Property Lawyer
Shareholder, Gray Robinson P.A.
MIT Media Lab Graduate
Author of Brent C.J. Britton blog
Today we’re tweeting with Florida intellectual property lawyer, U of Tampa adjunct professor and MIT Media Lab graduate @bcjb
- @bcjb thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @bcjb?
@bcjb is loving husband, doting father, scientist, musician, speaker (overcooked ham), lawyer, entrepreneur, bon vivant
– - Tell us about your law practice.
IP, technology transactions, venture funding, M&A. I help people start companies and keep their IP and contracts in order.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mostly entrepreneurs in tech startups, but also some large, worldwide companies. Almost always tech or media or art.
– - An interesting mix (tech, media & art I mean). What’s the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
My top 3 legal issues: be honest in all things, audit your IP portfolio, use the most well-written contracts available
– - What then do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
It varies, but we have to have a realistic conversation about legal fees. Innovators require nontrivial legal budgets.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I work for a large, Japanese co (cannot name it) that sends me around the country lecturing on legal risks…
In 1996 I wrote one of the first website development deals for a large television network against Major League Baseball
– - Sounds like interesting work…. Why do your clients hire you?
I work to keep great reputation for high quality and customer service. Happy clients are best marketing.
– - Indeed they do. What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
I do both IP and corporate work. Currently the IP is vastly outpacing the corporate. Lots of patents; not a lot of M&A.
– - How did your life as an engineer prepare you to help clients as an IP attorney?
As a software engineer, I found the law to be a hackable, noisy, rule-based system. Contracts a little computer programs.
– - That’s very interesting description of the law…. I like it. What’s the next big frontier of IP law?
Tricky.
Both patents and copyrights may need slight modifications to suit modern standards. Open source rocks.
– - This one’s less tricky (maybe): how do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
“I help people start new companies, products, and services. I’m where the new stuff comes from.”
– - You blog at “Brent C.J. Britton” (http://bit.ly/a2PouT). What is your blogging strategy? How do you decide what to blog about?
I have a blogging strategy? =] It’s totally random. I try to blog monthly, but often fail. Wish I could do better. Too bz.
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
Early 2007 I think. Same objectives. Stay connected, entertain, educate.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
It’s kinda like asking what is impact of telephone. It’s how clients find me and talk to me now.
– - You’re a shareholder in a 200-lawyer firm. How does your firm’s leadership view your active Web 2.0 participation?
With cautious optimism.
– - Hard to argue with results…. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Multi-jurisdictional practices. No one only has clients in a single state. I happen to be licensed in CA, NY & FL, but…
…geographic locus is becoming less and less relevant to commercial and legal activity. Hard for lawyers to deal.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Fewer firms, more solos referring and exchanging work, lots of online-only atty-client relationships, more ADR, all online.
– - The answer to this one might be obvious, but what would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I would try to make a living speaking, writing, starting companies of my own, and playing classical piano. =]
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As one who drank deeply of life, who made other people happy, and who loved his wife and kids beyond comprehension.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Family. I speak, write, start companies of my own, play classical piano. =] Also I am learning violin with my 3yo daughter.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
My heart goes out. Hang in there. Try to diversify your expertise. Do what you love.
– - And our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Don’t borrow to pay tuition. Take Ethics. Skip class once in a while.
Smart advice. Thanks for the interview; I enjoyed tweeting with you very much.
The pleasure was entirely mine. But I am disappointed we did not out-trend #fatstrippernames. =]
@constructionlaw 2.0
August 19th, 2010
Attorney, The Law Office of Christopher G. Hill, PC
Author, Construction Law Musings
LEED AP
Instructor, Solo Practice University
Today, we’re tweeting with @constructionlaw: VA construction attorney, LEED AP, construction law blogger and May 2009 interviewee
- @Constructionlaw, thank you for joining us today on Twitter, and welcome back to 22 Tweets. Tell us, who is @Constructionlaw?
thx 4 having me back ,a construction attorney that wants 2 help construction folks manage their risk & grow their business.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I am a construction attorney and do my best to keep clients out of trouble, and get them out of trouble when necessary
– - Since our 1st interview, you’ve “gone solo” (congrats on that, by the way). How did that change your practice?
I still provide wht I hope is gr8 client service but now can be more flexible in meeting client’s needs more directly.
– - Any advice for other lawyers considering a solo practice?
have confidence in yourself & let personality & expertise shine though, in marketing & in practice. The rest will come.
– - I believe your LEED AP cert is also new since May 2009. What does that mean for your clients?
a level of familiarity w/ the LEED green building certification that will help w/ new construction contracting landscape
– - Let’s talk about your clients. What type of clients do you represent?
Any level of commercial construction professional for the most part, right now mostly subcontractors and suppliers
– - What is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
getting paid! Really, this is the biggest thing with this economy.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
That i’m a part of their team, whether in litigation or hopefully in business growth & that I understand their issues.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
They are all significant, but representing a national window manufacturer in some litigation was one of the biggest.
– - How has the construction landscape evolved since we last tweeted? Who are the new players? Who’s gone?
So much has changed I have several friends and/or clients that have gone through significant expansion or contraction.
– - What’s the next big frontier in construction law? What should your clients be doing to prepare for it?
Green building & it’s impact on how we build projects. They need 2 recognize the unique issues w/ green construction
– - How do you describe what you do to someone you meet at a cocktail reception?
A risk manager for construction professionals or outside, in house counsel for construction companies
– - Nice. What are some challenges of marketing a solo practice that you didn’t see when you were part of larger firm?
not much has changed, I was always marketing my own practice. This may be different had I been at a truly large firm
– - You blog at Construction Law Musings (http://bit.ly/17FHYY). How has your blog evolved over past year and a half?
its growth has been amazing! The Guest Post Fridays (in which you’ve participated) add depth that I could not have imagined
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
yes. I get calls from out of state contractors or lawyers. I also just today got a client from my firm website.
– - Congrats for that! The economy & the need to retool: still the most significant issues facing the legal profession?
Yes, In short, the legal profession seems to be stuck in the past and it’s come home to roost in many ways
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Who knows? Things R changing so fast. I think thr will be more small specialized firms working in loose referral networks.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Tough one. Something involving people that would let me also hang with my great family.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As a lawyer who balanced family and clients in a way that let him represent his clients to the fullest and have fun doing it
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
When? Oh, mostly kid and family related activities or playing tennis or shooting (poorly) at sporting clays.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Market, Also, don’t get too down, you have a skill set you can use and you’ll figure out how to use it.
– - And our final question for you, Chris: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
besides go back in time and make a new decision? Try to have fun in law school and explore what you’d be passionate about.
Valuable advice to close this great interview. Thank you very much for coming back to 22 Tweets!
Glad to do it, thanks!
