@ellenvictor
July 29th, 2010
Long Island Business and Estate Planning Attorney
Owner, The Law Office of Ellen A. Victor
Author, Special Needs Law Blog and Small Business Law Blog
Today we’re tweeting with Long Island business, estate planning and special needs attorney @EllenVictor
- @Ellenvictor thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @Ellenvictor?
I’m a Long Island, NY business and estate planning attorney who has a special interest in #specialneeds.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
My practice ranges from small business formation to contract review to…
to Medicaid applications to wills and complex estate plans to non-profit applications.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
#smallbiz; elderly clients who need Medicaid planning; families with #specialneeds kids; average families who need estate planning
– - What is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Protecting their assets: from the taxman, from the nursing home, from immature children, from creditors and predators
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I tell them they are going to get a lawyer who will always be available to answer their questions; that they are not alone
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
My last fun case was representing an incorporated church in a dissolution proceeding, and selling the underlying property.
– - That must have been interesting…. Why do your clients hire you?
I believe they sense my compassion, caring, competence, and commitment.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
my practice is evenly split between estate planning, not for profit 501(c)(3) status applications and Medicaid planning
– - How has special needs law changed since you started practicing it? Is it still evolving?
Unfortunately, government entitlements are under fire, special needs trusts must be carefully drafted to ensure compliance
– - How are your small business clients faring in the current economic climate? Are they beginning to see improvement?
Research shows that businesses started during a recession often flourish when the economy recovers.
– - Let’s hope that trend continues…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I help families and businesses protect the people and things they care about, from taxes, nursing home costs, and even themselves.
– - You author two separate blogs (http://bit.ly/a84YK5 and http://bit.ly/9QDQZR). Are they effective marketing tools? Why?
Because of my writing, clients come to me already convinced of my knowledge, experience and compassion
– - sounds like a resounding “yes”…. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives? Have they changed?
About a year ago @JeenaBelil, a LI colleague, convinced me Twitter would be fun, and it has been!
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
I’ve received requests to write articles, teach classes, and referrals from other lawyers thru my Web 2.0 activities
– - Wow, that’s great ROI. How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
I’d estimate about an hour per day between my two blogs, various listservs and checking in to Twitter and Facebook
– - Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
The new economics of law: outsourcing, virtual paralegals, flextime, alternative billing and alternate dispute resolution
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
The law will become even more multi-jurisdictional and multi-national. Even small businesses must deal w/ internet issues.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I believe I’d make a great psychologist. I pride myself on my insight and caring about people.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As a parent of a special needs child, my greatest accomplishment has been her success
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I like travel, watching reality TV and reading serial killer novels, but like most solo lawyers, I’m almost always working!
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Hang in there! Keep networking and studying your area of the law; branch out into related areas of law
– - And our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
oh, boy. I’d suggest law students should work hard to learn practical skills by taking clinics and interning for firms
Valuable advice! Thanks very much for the interview; I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice.
Thank you so much for inviting me to share some of my thoughts
@caririncker
July 20th, 2010
Principal Attorney at Rincker Law, PLLC
Illinois Farmgirl living in NYC
SimAngus Cattle Owner
Livestock Judge
Today we’re tweeting with Illinois farmgirl turned New York-based agriculture and environmental lawyer @CariRincker
- @CariRincker thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @CariRincker?
Thanks for inviting me today for the Twitterview.
I’m a midwestern #beef #cattle girl living in #NYC who is passionate about the #agriculture industry and #food security.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
@RinckerLaw serves clients involved in every segment of the #agriculture industry including #food, #fiber, and #biofuels.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
@RinckerLaw has a wide variety of clients including #ag producers, multi-national #food companies, & #fashion designers
– - A broad mix indeed. What is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Complying with stringent #environmental regulations imposed on the federal, state and local level.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I tell each new client of @RinckerLaw that I need open communication to ensure that I get an accurate picture of the facts.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I have really enjoyed my work with international #food, #ag, and #biotech companies with various contract and #trade issues.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
My #farm roots helped mold me into a honest, hard-working attorney who truly understands & loves the #ag community. #agchat
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Contract drafting- No, that isn’t typical since #ag producers usually do business with a handshake. See http://tiny.cc/7n952
– - Tell us about your work as an advisor for the Permanent Mission of the Marshall Islands to the United Nations
– I love it! I sat on the floor of the #UN General Assembly and gave voting recommendations to Ambassador Alfred Capelle.
– - That’s cool! Ag law has no doubt changed significantly since you became a lawyer. What’s the next frontier of ag law?
I anticipate that more #ag producers will participate in the #renewable #energy movement (e.g., #wind and #solar #farms).
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
#Aglaw is an industry based practice area that touches upon nearly every kind of law. http://tiny.cc/d2jqg #agchat #foodchat
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I became active during a #WY blizzard a yr ago. I now realize that it is a completely different than #FB -news & networking.
– - Agreed. Congrats on your one-year blogging anniversary (http://bit.ly/4cP09A)! How has your blog changed in that time?
Thanks! I hope my #agblog is informative for #food & #ag folks. For my second year I hope to implement some video blogging.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
Twitter isn’t about “who you know”-it’s about “who you want to know.” I have met clients & lawyers who have sent me clients.
– - Well put. How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
I represent my brand 24/7/365 whether I am tweeting from my #iphone4, in the courtroom, or having cocktails with friends.
– - a recipe for success…. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
– There are too many lawyers graduating with heavy student loan debt. There are not enough high salaried jobs at #BigLaw.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Tough question. I think the legal industry will become more niche-based and client-focused over the next decade.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I have an advanced degree in #beef #cattle nutrition so I would probably be teaching animal science or working in extension.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
Someone who spent her life trying to improve the #ag industry so the world could have safe, affordable, & abundant #food.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I enjoy judging #livestock shows, playing #volleyball, distance #running, and watching the #Yankees from the cheap seats.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Roll up your sleeves and learn to hustle. Pursue your passions and don’t get discouraged because perseverance never fails.
– - And our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Give it everything you have for three years — it will be over before you know it. Get to know your classmates and profs.
Thanks for that great advice and for the interview. I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice.
I enjoyed the Twitterview! Thanks for the invitation.
@profjonathan
June 8th, 2010
Director, Touro Law Center Institute for Business, Law and Technology and Assistant Professor of Law and Technology
Special Counsel, The Lustigman Firm
Today we’re tweeting w/ @profjonathan: tech lawyer, law prof, author, & one of Long Island Business News’ “Top 40 under 40” in 2005
- @profjonathan thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @profjonathan?
@ProfJonathan is the law, technology and general Twitter ID for Jonathan Ezor of Long Island, NY
– - Tell us about your law practice.
1st a corp. atty in 92, Internet bus law since ’94, and am now counsel to The Lustigman Firm (www.lfirm.com) (@AdvLaw )
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Marketers, startups and other cos using the Internet in some way. I do contracts & advisory work, not litigation.
– - What is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Today, #privacy and user data laws and regs. Constantly shifting requirements and expectations throughout world.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
That I know the job of a lawyer is to help find the “yes” if possible, not just say “no.” Then I listen and ask questions.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I was an outside atty for Juno at & just after its launch as 1st ad-supported free e-mail svc. Cool co., smart people.
– - That does sound cool. Why do your clients hire you?
Because I and my colleagues already get what they do, so we can focus on helping them better manage risks….
I’ve always thought it unfair for clients to have to explain the Internet to their attys while paying for billable hours…
Also, how can an atty give good advice on risks if he/she doesn’t truly understand the environment in which client works?
– - Indeed. What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
First is #privacy. We have an efficient, flat-free process to build flexible and understandable policies….
Other main focus is social media in all forms. Twitter sweepstakes, endorsements, affiliate marketing, etc…
Because the Internet is constantly evolving, so does our work, which is what makes it fun.
– - You teach cyberlaw and biz law at Touro Law Center. Does teaching make you a better lawyer? How?
Touro (http://www.tourolaw.edu) is actually my full-time job; I direct our Institute for Business, Law and Technology…
Teaching definitely improves my lawyering, and vice versa. Teaching means I must be ready to answer all kinds of Qs…
…and through my practice, I come across new areas I can share (minus confidential info, of course!) with my students…
It’s really a great synergy. There’s a reason why lawyers who teach get extra CLE hours. It improves their own practice.
– - That certainly makes sense. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
“I run a program for Internet business law at Touro, and have been practicing it for more than 15 years.” Straightforward.
– - When then did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives when you started? Have they changed?
I joined Twitter in the fall of 2008, but really became active in the spring of 2009…
I credit my friends @dcpinkowitz and @jeffpulver (of #140conf fame) with jumpstarting my Twitter use…
My objectives were and are twofold: to make an impact by providing info & value, and to get info and value….
What I didn’t expect, though, is how Twitter can be something like an #IRC channel; an ongoing, interactive community…
Using tools like #Tweetdeck, and hashtag-driven columns, Twitter goes from a firehose to a managed discussion. Very useful.
– - You also tweet as @PalmPreLawyer. Why do you use two accounts? Is there a difference in your content?
With social media, “who you are” is important. Not every one of my followers is interested in the #Palm #Pre and #webos…
Rather than making them sort through my tweets, I started a separate, non-secret Twitter account for those thoughts…
(I have a 3rd account that I just use to enter Twitter-based prize promos, so I don’t bug folks with RTs. Have won too!)
– - Besides Twitter, what other social media / networking tools do you regularly use?
I use LinkedIn, both to make connections and to build a network as a resource for my students…
I do use Facebook, but largely for personal stuff. It’s where people my age rediscover their high school/college friends.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
No direct client gets (yet), but many new relationships, speaking engagements, writing gigs, etc….
I’ve also been able to point out resources and opportunities to clients and colleagues, through my own exploration.
– - How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
By spending time on Twitter. There’s a direct correlation: the more I tweet (relevantly), the more followers I gain…
Have to balance, though. #Twitter can be a *huge* time sink. Way too interesting sometimes.
How much time depends on the day. “Too much” is probably the most accurate answer, though! 🙂
– - I hear ya…. Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Demonstrating its value. Between online legal “services” and outsourcing, clients don’t get why they need lawyers…
Of course, inflexible hourly billing doesn’t help! But especially for transactional (non-litigator) attys, it’s difficult…
We need to show why our judgment, which can’t be automated or ‘Zoomed, is valuable….
We also need to constantly reevaluate whether and how we can add value to what our clients do, whatever that may be.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
More automated but not automatic. Lawyers will find new ways to provide service, or leave the profession…
I suspect BigLaw salaries will come down, though law will still be potentially lucrative…Professionalism will be key.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
What I’d *like* to be is a science fiction writer, but I don’t really have those stories to tell, unfortunately….
More likely, I would do the other things I do a little of now: write non-fiction (biz/tech & other subjects) and work in IT.
(Teaching at a law school, though, is one of the best jobs out there.)
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who informed, positively.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I have 3 kids (ages 8 to 15), all bright, good kids with some special needs. That keeps me busy *grin*….
Like many other geeks (a title I wear proudly), I read SF and comics. But with technology, “not working” is misleading….
There’s a reason I have a t-shirt (courtesy of @140tees) that says, “At Work If Awake.” Laptops & smartphones do that.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Just sending resumes is like buying a lottery ticket. Be creative, use social media to create and use connections….
Having spent some time unemployed myself, I know how scary it can be. I actually did a talk for students on this…
It’s probably relevant for any lawyer (or other person) looking for jobs. It’s a podcast available at http://j.mp/caTjgZ
– - And our last question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Law school is one of the best overall educations for Americans, but it’s darned expensive…
If you can afford to spend the money, go. If you’re borrowing (as I did), make sure you *really* want to be a lawyer…
If you’re just going to law school to make money, there are better, cheaper and more effective ways to do that….
If you do go, make sure you take advantage of every opportunity to make connections and distinguish yourself.
That’s great advice. Thanks very much for tweeting with me today; I enjoyed getting to know you.
Likewise. It was much fun, and I look forward to future interviews! Be well.
@rossamcmahon
May 25th, 2010
Solicitor, Patrick G. McMahon Solicitors
Author of “A Clatter of the Law”
Registered Trade Mark Agent (Ireland) and European Trade Mark and Design Attorney
Today we’re tweeting with @rossamcmahon, a general practice solicitor from West Limerick (and the first Irish lawyer on 22 Tweets)
- @rossamcmahon Welcome to 22 Tweets and thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @rossamcmahon?
A young blogging lawyer who left Biglaw & the city (Dublin) almost one year ago. So far so good!
– - Tell us about your law practice.
It’s general & covers everything: personal, family, property & business issues. I tend to focus on court & business work.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Local residents, businesses & farmers. Also anyone unlucky enough to be in court for an unpaid parking fine.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Without doubt, money. The economy has affected everything: whether to buy, to sue, to separate, whether to even “go to law”.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Every situation different but often I’ll say: “I don’t have a magic wand.” This is not a negative: it’s a call for realism.
– - Certainly makes sense…. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
A gargantuan copyright case; but lately: getting dom.violence order for parent against kid. Small job, v.important 2 client.
– - Important indeed. Why do your clients hire you?
I have broad experience of different types of law & different ways of doing a job. I listen & think through the practicals.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Debt. Typical of where Ireland is at right now & a good example of law coming up against reality. http://is.gd/coFOL
– - You write regularly about privacy law. What are the biggest challenges to personal privacy in today’s wired world?
Volunteering info online, not thinking how it might be (ab)used in future or how net might change (eg. Facebook policies).
– - You practiced at a large corporate firm before moving to your current firm. What led to the change?
Life! I loved law at a big firm, but this practice was set up by my late father. It felt like the right time for a change.
– - Must have been a big change. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
Cliché, but: “I solve problems for people. Or, I try my best.” That’s general practice! It can be a long conversation.
– - You blog at A Clatter of the Law (http://bit.ly/93jwAw). Who do you write for? Why should they read it?
At first, I wrote for myself. I enjoy writing about the law, it affects us all. That’s why people should read my blog!
– - I enjoyed your Blawg Review. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
Joined 2006, active 2009. No objective. It’s like a water cooler, can be just chat or can be great source of info/debate.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
Has produced some leads that just would not have arisen otherwise. Important in helping make a name for yourself these days.
– - How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
All day! But probably average an hour/two every day on specifics (blog, presentations, etc.) Mostly outside office hours.
– - Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Reform. Long overdue & is sleeper issue that will eventually have to be faced up to. Might seem technical, but is important.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
In Ireland: fewer, larger, firms & stronger competition. Huge amount of new law means very difficult to hang out a shingle.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Architecture. Prospect of seeing ideas physically manifested is very attractive. Though could easily be unemployed now!
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As a decent individual. Decency is undervalued; I think it’s important.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I have a 12 week old daughter & new house mid-renovation, so it’s all about family when not at work. Busy all day & love it.
– - Congrats for both! What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Get up to date & share views. There’s a lot of new law, not many legal bloggers. Use time to make a name for yourself.
– - And our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Don’t be disheartened by all the bad news. Make sure law is for you, then go for it. With right attitude, you’ll get there.
Thanks for that great advice. I enjoyed tweeting with you today and learning about you and your practice.
Thanks for having me. Good questions & it’s a good exercise for a lawyer to practise giving concise answers!
@jonathanlea
May 19th, 2010
Business lawyer, adventurer, communicator and relationship builder
Solicitor, Follett Stock Solicitors LLP
Today we’re tweeting with Cornish corporate and commercial lawyer, adventurer, communicator, and relationship-builder @jonathanlea
- @jonathanlea thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @jonathanlea?
An enterprising lawyer based in the UK south western extremity that is Cornwall. Used to work in big law firms in London and Dubai
– - Tell us about your law practice.
We are Cornwall’s leading law firm for businesses with a new second office in Exeter, Devon (county next door) – rapidly expanding!
– - Congratulations. What type of clients do you represent?
SMEs, IT entrepreneurs, family run businesses, start ups, subsids of foreign parents. Increasingly from ‘upcountry’ (non Cornish)
– - And what is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
With new govt there is lot of talk abt increasing capital gains tax which will start people thinking how to protect their interests
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
To look at my web profile and testimonials + that won’t get billed anything unless they’ve agreed to the work in writing beforehand
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
As a trainee in Dubai I found myself advising largest French oil exploration company on a JV with Saudi state oilfield services co
– - Now that’s trial by fire…. Why do your clients hire you?
Bright, take interest in client’s biz, advise not just on law, responsive, don’t over-complicate things, see humorous side of life
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Asset and share sales and investments are still what I do most of, but seen rise in angel investors + also deferred consideration
– - What’s the mood in the UK? Is capital continuing to flow in spite of the European financial crisis?
No, clients are still scrapping around for capital, but hopefully with a new government their policies will bring confidence back
– - We touched on this but what does the recent change in government mean for your clients?
In the short term, more pain, with public sector cuts and tax rises, but over time consensus is they’ll rebuild UK economy again
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I make people successful (grabs attention!), then say something along the lines that I structure, negotiate and document biz deals
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I registered in Feb 2009, but only really started using it abt 6 months ago. Now use it to learn and network/socialize more widely
– - What does your firm’s leadership think of your Web 2.0 activity? Was it difficult to get their buy-in?
They are gaining an interest in the potential. As a small(ish) firm, its easier. We are now going to establish a facebook page!
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
I have received client instructions on facebook and have had a few interesting calls and emails that have led from twitter use
– - Interesting. How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
Probs average 1-2 hours, but this also inc. planning seminars and attending events etc. Twitter and FB fun for otherwise downtime
– - Time well spent… Let’s switch gears now: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Globalisation – outsourcing legal work to cheaper labour markets (hopefully gd for Cornwall!) combined with IT use + fee certainty
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Very different! More small firms, hybrid models, outsourcing, diff owners/investors, commoditization, social media, online delivery
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Thought abt journalism, teaching, army and investment banking (in no order), although hope to develop non-law interests in future!
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who was positive, embraced newness, helped a lot of people, achieved things, had fun and enjoyed an interesting life
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Play tennis and soccer (correct word = football), surf, spend time with family and friends, read, travel off beaten track and tweet!
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Keep busy + network, offer to work on freelance basis, do volunteer work. I don’t necessarily see value in further formal education
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Do your research and fully! Do lots of work experience and make sure you develop your interests and skills widely, not just in law
thanks very much! I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice. Good luck with that Facebook page.
Many thanks to @22twts and @lancegodard for interview – hope is of interest..
@douglasreiser
May 14th, 2010
Today we’re tweeting with LEED AP @douglasreiser, a Washington state construction lawyer and blogger
- @douglasreiser thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @douglasreiser?
So glad to be here today, thank you for having me on…..
1st a husband, then a worker, idea monger, brewer, sportsman & worst of all – a Cleveland sports fan. these define me from 12 to 12
– - Well this just might be your year…. Tell us about your law practice.
a 24 hour shop in my head. i built a remote practice that follows wherever i go. goals = access, comm., efficiency & understanding
……and i hope you are right about the Cavs (presumably you didnt mean the Browns or Indians!)
– - Very interesting. What type of clients do you represent?
those inundated w. construction concerns. the focus is on the business, their risks & protection. I also rep breweries, my hobby
– - Nice hobby…. What is the single most important legal issue affecting your clients?
Risk. businesses dont understand its extent; it comes at all angles, in all they do. I locate those risks and eliminate/reduce them
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
That im here when you need me. you can find me 24hrs/7 days a week. i’ll clear my table to help you, because i love the challenge.
– - Am sure they appreciate. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
significance is in the eye of the beholder. i think its green builders that i help wade through liability. new challenge for all.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
im a person, like everyone. im tangible; im understood. i lived/breathed construction on & off the job. people feel comfort in that
– - What’s the busiest area of your practice right now? Is that typical?
public contracting. today’s only fish in the pond 4 builders. i help obtain jobs & preserve rights. its atypical; recent explosion
– - Tell us about your LEED AP certification. What does it mean? Why is it important to your clients?
LEED AP isnt a gold key 2 green building; attys should never hide behind it. A step to learning what should be uniform in building
– - What’s the next big legal battleground in green construction law? How is it expected to play out?
field is set to determine performance liability + GBCI LEED challenges & the Int. Green Const. Code could spawn work for attorneys
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
im myself. lawyers drink wine – i drink beer (Stout/IPA). Im approachable in that image. sports are the best icebreaker in building
– - You blog at The Builders Counsel blog (http://bit.ly/aWm9R8). What’s your strategy? How do you decide what to write?
i heard @kevinokeefe say “listen” is key word in social media. 100% agree. I found the best group of talkers; i listen + add my bit
– - Indeed. Besides Twitter and your blog, what other Web 2.0 tools do you use to market your practice?
I have two blogs + @Avvo, @LinkedIn, @legalriver, Plaxo, Justia, @consupo, LawyerLink, Legal Guru, etc. – i try & be everywhere.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
People want an answer. Any atty can say you should consult an attorney/I need to see more. we’re transparent online; people like it
– - How much time do you spend each day developing and enhancing your brand / marketing your practice?
way too hard to quantify; its all the time. i try to listen to the online community all day & respond when i have a worthy thought.
– - Understood. Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
progression v. ethical restraint. A lot of attys are afraid to go Web 2.0. They are missing out and i feel its not fair to them.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
trans. tasks by legal biz’s w/o malpractice, billable hr., the office & a suit. Court battles: less formal, less paper & less fight
– - Interesting perspective. What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
your easiest question. own a brewery, create a web of distribution 4 craft brewers around US & fight the 3 tier system. retirement.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
go outdoors w/ my beer writer wife (@beerblotter). travel around the world. check out new buildings in SEA. agonize over CLE sports
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As a worker. someone who worked hard to find answers & innovate. dont need my name in gold; dont need a plaque. just happy clients
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
reinvent what you know about law. be innovative. find something you know and advocate for it loudly. people will find your voice.
– - Our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
dont look back at law, look ahead. At school, find a job/opp that gives you a 1st hand look at practice. go Web 2.0 now! dont wait
good advice, Doug. Thanks very much for tweeting with me today; I enjoyed learning more about you / your practice.
Thanks so much for having me on today. Your questions were great!
@Sobk13
May 5th, 2010
Founder of Divorce Manual, Researching Reform, and Pod It Forward
Ichthyomaniac and crocodile lover
Renegade Lawyer
Today we’re tweeting with renegade lawyer @Sobk13, who mediates between order and chaos.
- @Sobk13 thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @Sobk13?
A mythical gatekeeper to Divorce Manual.In his spare time he terrorises tweeters & takes his pet Goblin Shark for twitstream swims..
– - Tell us about your law practice.
It’s legal research & journalism based, working with families, pressure groups & politicians to help create dialog & offer solutions
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mothers and fathers with contact or financial disagreements but ultimately I represent the best interests of the children involved.
– - And what is the single most important legal issue affecting all of those clients?
The issues seem interlinked but usually start with a breach of one of the Human Rights Conventions & involve prohibitive legal costs
– - What do you tell your new clients before you start working for them?
Well, there are no explicit by-lines; I just ask what it is I can do to assist and then I try to listen, as carefully as I can.
– - Makes a lot of sense…. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
They’re all significant in their own way; briefs can seem identical at first but all are multi-layered so no 2 cases are the same.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
Usually because they’ve lost faith in the legal system and can’t afford to pay more fees; I work pro bono as a McKenzie Friend.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Ongoing dialog with pressure groups & families in the system; it’s not typical but really ought to be standard government practice.
– - What’s the hardest part about working with parents and children going through divorces?
Staying focused on the various forms of suffering each party’s experiencing. They’re all relevant & need to be treated with respect.
– - You work with groups seeking reform in the English Family Justice System. What is that system? Why is reform needed?
A legal forum 4 family matters like divorce & adoption; it needs reform because our understanding of the human condition has evolved
– - Interesting notion. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I tend 2 reserve those occasions for a little mischief; one evening I might be a Spanish biologist & another, a secret agent for MI5
– - So perhaps we’ve met and I didn’t know it… When did you join Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
Quite possibly 🙂 & 2009, I think. I’m a Techno Bimbo trying 2 rise to the challenge & learn 2 engage with families on social media.
– - 🙂 You blog at Divorce Manual (http://bit.ly/btNeW7) & 2 other sites. What are your blog objectives? Are you meeting them?
To expose the real problems in the system & to involve lay people & professionals. I really hope the blogs meet these objectives.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
I’m grateful to the net for providing me with a platform, it’s very good for referrals but word of mouth still pips it to the post.
– - How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
I don’t believe in brands; they make me think of sheep & wool..! I prefer to be open about my views & be myself, for better or worse
– - It seems to be working fine… Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
In Family Law, I think it’s about the working legal culture in place and its need to evolve so that it can offer a relevant service.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
To my mind for UK Family Law, a more humane place, with families beginning to trust the system a little more.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Become a mermaid and play in the sea, eating pralines passing sailors threw me or work for UNESCO on matters relating to children.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I have a lovely son; he is currently learning to Death Roll. When I’m not parenting, I love to swim in pools or ponds.
– - Congrats. How do you want to be remembered?
As a scaly little crocodile with mischievous nostrils.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
For UK Family lawyers, it’s a great time to re-invent their practice. There’s a huge demand for ethical, family-friendly services.
– - And our last question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Hold on to your ideals, let go of fear, practice with compassion. And never underestimate the power of the whoopy cushion.
Thanks for that great advice! And for tweeting with me today–it was a real pleasure learning about you and your practice.
Thank you very much for having me on ; it was lots of fun being interviewed and I wish you all the best 🙂
@douglassorocco
April 27th, 2010
Director and Shareholder, Dunlap Codding
Author of Phosita intellectual property law blog
Former Chairman, Board of Directors of the Spina Bifida Association of America
Today we’re tweeting with @douglassorocco, Oklahoma City IP attorney by day, crusading do-gooder by night
- @douglassorocco thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @douglassorocco?
I’m a mashup of tech geek, chemist, patent atty, photog, woodworker, husband and father. Also passionate about volunteerism.
– - Don’t think any interviewees have described themselves as “mashups” before…. Tell us about your law practice.
It’s always interesting – I work with the most creative, eccentric, innovative and passionate people. My day is rarely dull.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
My clients are concentrated at opposite ends of the spectrum – either very large legacy companies or start ups…
All are typically looking to disrupt status quo – either with new technologies, fresh innovations or wicked cool ideas.
– - Interesting. And what’s the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Predictability and no surprises – law is never predictable and that is true in IP and tech law more than anywhere. Constant change…
My goal is to be as solid as possible – no surprise bills, no surprise deadlines, nothing silly that would make life harder.
– - Am sure they appreciate that. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
“It’s a partnership” and “How can I make you a hero?” – 2 things that convey my respect for what they do and my ultimate goal.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I represent @pictometryintl – the challenge of keeping up with fast paced technology and being a shepherd of their tech and brand.
– - Sorry, distracted looking at @pictometryintl website…. Cool stuff. Why do your clients hire you?
I give a damn and take respons. If I say it – I do it & keep my word. I am a real person with a life outside law. Approachable.
– - What’s the next big frontier of IP law? Who will be most affected by it?
Social media (what else?) – int’l enforcement. Virtual innovation. How does a constitutional principle evolve for Internet era?
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Laying groundwork for end of recession – pinpoint focus on innovation and protecting it. Market differentiation…
Not historically “typical” – but in this econ, a laser focus on deriving value from the innovation and & IP is big key component.
– - Tell us about your work as Chair of the Spina Bifida Association of America. What was your greatest accomplishment?
As an indiv born with spina bifida – truly rewarding to see young people growing up with hope for a better, more inclusive, life…
From a policy perspective – increasing the knowledge of folic acid in decreasing incidence of spina bifida in U.S. & abroad…
And making sure – every – woman of childbearing age knows to take that folic acid prior to conceiving.
– - Kudos for your efforts. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I help protect reputations and creativity. I work with inventors to facilitate the transition from white board to marketplace.
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
I believe it was in 2008 – although my tweets were sparse. Wanted to engage in the convo. Now – basically have same goal …
…to engage and converse with people I would not otherwise come into contact with. My own global “brain trust”.
– - Makes sense. You blog at Phosita (http://bit.ly/f6Oe). Who do you write it for? Why should they read it?
Started 1/2004 – it is the “People” mag of IP info. Goal was to have fun – info, simple IP explanations, and snark. =)
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
Significant – i.e., meeting people, developing long term mutual friendships, and a referral network of people I trust and trust me…
Same as with a local “face 2 face” network – but everyone is spread around world. #ignitelaw talk about it http://bit.ly/aSdJvT (expand)
– - How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
~ 15% – a lot of support to our young professionals to do it – e.g., @emilyecampbell – supporting @igniteokc, @swokc etc.
– - Time well spent…. Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Pressure on “big firms” from smaller, regional firms – e.g., we can compete with coastal firms even though we are in OKC …
okc’s low cost of living equals lower costs and our “real people” culture makes us enjoyable to work with…
We do things big firms can’t b/c of their rigid structure. Our clients feel like we live across street and have “skin in the game”
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Different! =) Boutique firms and solo attorneys will be the envy of the profession – efficient , decisive counseling – no memos!
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Something in the arts –an architect or photographer. Maybe a cabinet maker etc. Useful or practical wares. =)
– - How do you want to be remembered?
I cared and left world with more than I took. I loved and was loved. I had a lot of fun and I had the biggest mancave in world…
Finally – that I wore out my body and was on the last bit of energy when I waved goodbye!
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Sleep! I travel a lot (60%) – so, I enjoy my home time – reading, wrestling with toddler son, and a beer with my wife on our porch.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Do the unthinkable – if “is is always done this way” do it differently and promote the hell out of it…
Clients are looking for the “wow” – be your own boss. Read folks like @nipper, @jmattbuchanan, @matthoman, @ipstrategist…
They have struck out on different paths and created a place for themselves in the world. They provide value by being different.
– - And our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Read a business book! Nothing will be easy – and someone will do what you do or want to do for less and in a better way…
If you treat law like any other business (innovate, client/customer service, good product, delight) you will succeed & be useful. =)
Great advice. Thanks very much for tweeting with me; I enjoyed interviewing you very much.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, IP, Oklahoma City | Comments Off on @douglassorocco@vbalasubramani 2.0
April 22nd, 2010
Founder, Focal PLLC
Author of Spam Notes
Today we’re tweeting with @vbalasubramani, Seattle-based internet-tech lawyer and author of the blog “Spam Notes”
One of our first twitterviewees one year ago, @vbalasubramani has returned to 22 Tweets to help us celebrate our first anniversary
- @vbalasubramani thank you for joining us again on Twitter. For those who weren’t here a year ago: who is @vbalasubramani?
thanks Lance, and good to be back! I’m a Seattle-based lawyer, and blogger @ blog.ericgoldman.org & @ spamnotes.com
– - What does your practice look like today? Is it different from last year? How?
it’s similar – covers the range of online issues. I did start a firm (w/a partner)..this has been great
– - Congrats! How have internet / spam laws changed over the past year? What does that mean for your clients?
online rules are fluid .. privacy is a looming issue, as it was last year; platforms (FB) are becoming more relevant
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that (the new) typical?
online disputes have been particularly active, content scraping, cybersquatting/domain name issues, the usual
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
litigation is uncertain, time consuming, and often unfair – always explore a business solution
– - That clearly hasn’t changed over the past year…. Why do your clients hire you?
because I am a prolific twit? kidding .. quality work, efficient, responsive, creative & interested in the space?
– - How do you describe your work to someone you meet at a cocktail party?
tough ? (not many cocktail parties in Seattle that I go to) I represent internet/media companies in disputes & advise them on risk
– - You need to get out more…. How has the economic crisis affected your clients?
ha! most are doing ok .. everyone is trying to save $$, but this has resulted in more work coming my way
– - How have your marketing objectives evolved over the past year? What’s driving that evolution?
I enjoy blogging, but I’d like to create more client-friendly content..the social web has helped me see how this may be useful
– - What do you consider to be the biggest change in the legal profession over the past 12 months?
law firms finally realized they don’t hold all the cards vis a vis clients..also a basic change in the young lawyer’s place
– - Indeed. If you had last year to do all over again, what would you do differently? Why?
turn away more work and be much more selective – the intangible (non-monetary) effects of the work you do are significant!
– - Interesting. You recently blogged about making a “clean break” from your blog to start a new 1. How did that end up?
I’ve been blogging at Prof. Goldman’s blog, which rocks (hope to continue that) .. I may launch another blog as well
– - You touched on this earlier: how has your social media and social networking activity evolved over the past year?
lots more Twitter! I’m pretty unstructured about SM, I’ve tried to regulate it, but that’s not my personality
– - Have you seen any impact on referrals and/or client engagements coming from your Web 2.0 activities?
no direct retention or referrals, but that’s not my goal – I do it for fun, to stay informed, and chat with folks
– - Last year “a loss of confidence in the system” = most sig issue facing legal profession. Still true? Why or why not?
fair statement, the client/firm/associate/billable hour dynamic has (unresolved) issues..the basic structure needs tweaking
– - What’s the next big frontier of technology for the legal profession?
telepresence? – inexpensive technology that ‘simulates’ face-to-face?..minority report?..there’s always the iPad 🙂
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
for starters I may be retired 😉 .. types of matters that typically go to a lawyer may narrow, lots of private resolution
– - Retire? Sounds like a set-up for the next question…. What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
own a restaurant, or a B&B, maybe have a cooking show or magazine (better yet a blog – I hear this pays!)?
– - How do you want to be remembered?
as a contributor and a positive force
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Travel, yoga, enjoy family, food and cooking
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
opportunities always exist in downturn..get experience..blogging is a great way to immerse yourself & demonstrate commitment
– - And our last question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today
be wary of echo chamber advice, focus on the fundamentals (esp. writing), enjoy life outside of the law – thanks Lance!
Great advice. Thanks again for coming back for a follow-up twitterview. It was a pleasure to tweet with you again.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Internet, Seattle | Comments Off on @vbalasubramani 2.0@Prutschi
April 13th, 2010
Toronto Criminal Lawyer
Partner, Adler Bytensky Prutschi
Author of “The Crime Traveller,” Precedent Magazine
Blawger on Slaw.ca
Today we’re tweeting w/ Toronto crim lawyer, occasional blawger at Slaw.ca & author of “The Crime Traveller” for Precedent @Prutschi
- @Prutschi thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @Prutschi?
Criminal defence lawyer. Amateur travel writer (@CrimeTraveller). Tech geek. Father. The order depends on the day.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
We have 3 partners, 3 associates and a student. Together, we defend shoplifting to murder and everything in between.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
My “typical” client is hard-working, middle class, and has never been in trouble with police before.
– - And what is the single most important legal issue affecting that “typical” client?
Combination of access to justice (legal fees are expensive) and bail conditions (which are often worse than the potential sentence).
That was cheating. I chose two. Sorry. 🙂
– - Happy to let it slide… Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I acted for a mortgage broker in a multi-million $ mortgage fraud. His career was obviously on the line. Acquitted.
– - Congrats to both of you. Why do your clients hire you?
Clients take comfort from our combination of experience, professionalism, tenacity and compassion.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Clients must trust my professionalism while still being a partner in the litigation. I need honesty & realism in order to help them.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Domestic assaults and impaired driving (#DUI). These are common, vigorously prosecuted, and form a big chunk of our work.
– - What led you to start your own firm with your current partners?
We all hail from big commercial firms. We were looking to help clients when the stakes were highest – criminal law.
– - Well it sounds like it was the right move. How do you market your practice?
Mostly by referral from non-criminal lawyers. Word of mouth from satisfied clients. And our website – www.CrimLawCanada.com.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I keep the system honest so that if you’re ever caught up in it (& don’t assume you won’t be), u can count on a fair trial.
– - You blog occasionally at Slaw.ca (http://bit.ly/d5IoHs). Who do you write for? Why should they read it?
Slaw is mostly lawyers but I consider my audience anyone interested in mature discussions on difficult criminal law issues…
…I challenge people to think critically about how our system works and what “fairness” means in the broadest sense.
– - Are there others in your firm as plugged in to Web 2.0 as you are? Was that a conscious decision?
As the youngest partner, I’m a natural fit for Web 2.0. The others ignore it but our incoming student (@JoelWelch) is on board.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
Impact has been indirect. Web 2.0 has helped garner media attention which in turn has led to name recognition and client calls.
– - How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
I think about my brand constantly but it only takes 10min/day to tweet something meaningful or 2hrs/mth to develop a good blog post.
– - Good points. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
In criminal law it’s the government’s misguided “get tough on crime” policies. They make great sound bites but terrible law.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Lawyers will catch up to where the rest of the world is today technologically. Of course that will still leave us 10yrs behind. 😉
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Be a travel journalist/photographer and call myself The Crime Traveller. Oh wait. I already do that. @CrimeTraveller.
– - I thought that sounded familiar…. How do you want to be remembered?
As someone passionate about justice and committed to fairness who was respected equally by crown prosecutors, judges and clients.
– - What do you do when you’re not working (or traveling or taking travel photos or writing about travel…)?
Play with my daughters or blow off steam through my love of video games (my home office sports an #XBox, #PS3 and #Wii).
– - Sounds like fun…. What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Network constantly. Understand your brand. Leverage new technology/media. Treat every person you meet as a future referral source.
– - And our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Take every practicum/clinical opportunity you can. Seek out courses taught by practitioners. Volunteer in the field.
That’s good advice. Thank you very much for tweeting with me today; I enjoyed learning about you and your practice.
Thank you for the interview. It was great sharing the twitterverse with your followers today.
