@whataboutparis
September 14th, 2011
Corporate Lawyer. Lobbyist. Fixer. Traveler. Writer.
Partner, Hull McGuire PC
Author of the What About Paris? / What About Clients? law blog
Today we’re tweeting with @Whataboutparis, the online persona of Dan Hull: int’l lawyer and “father” of the Slackoisie Movement
Two corrections: It’s the Anti-Slackoisie Movement, Lance. I am the Mother. @ScottGreenfield is the Father. Got that?
- @Whataboutparis, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Whataboutparis?
WAP? is just the Twitter version of What About Clients? which started in 2005. Has been 5 or 6 writers off and on since that time.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
It’s Fun. Client industries include manufacturing, transportation, energy. Most (90%) long-standing. A few public figures, writers.
– - What types of work do you do for those clients?
Clusters of work for each: in’l corp. tax, IP, environmental, labor, cross-border disputes, federal courts, straight-up lobbying.
– - What is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
The Costs of Litigation. In B-2-B disputes especially, we need more Arbitrations Done Right & new concept of what “Winning” is.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
You ask GC/client rep what he/she Really Needs. 2. Then you just Shut Up. 3. You Listen.
– - Sounds about right. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Representation of German co. sued by Spanish co. building steel mill in rural Kentucky with Atlanta arbitration under Ohio law.
– - Wow. Why do your clients hire you?
Most “hires” = repeat business. But my guess: they first come & stay because we think lawyering is not about the lawyers. Ever.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Litigation. In a Recession, you’d expect it. But it is not that much more than usual.
– - You’ve built a thriving int’l practice w/out setting up outside the US. Is that the right business model for all?
No. You need very energetic lawyers who (1) want to “work abroad” & (2) could do that at almost any Western firm. Not 4 everyone.
– - OK. Would you do the same again today? Or are the costs too high, the risks too great, the law too different?
Great question. We worked internationally/nationally before that was cool. Am sure we’d try to enter market. Not sure if we would.
– - Your firm has been part of the Int’l Business Law Consortium. What is it? What’s it mean for your clients? For you?
IBLC “unbundled” lots of legal talent & gave even largest clients more choices abroad. 80+ firms in major cities around the globe.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
Varies. But I don’t use the word “lawyer” until I have their attention. Even sophisticated users of lawyers think we’re Wankers.
– - How do you market your int’l law practice? To whom? Did you always do it that way?
We research thoroughly & pitch 4 new targets a year. If we get work from 2 inside of 18 months from first meeting, that’s success.
– - Your blog, What About Paris?, is many things to your readers. What is it to you?
Mainly fun. And to pitch a few ideas: art of the client, working “in the world”, cultural literacy/wholeness, lawyering as hard.
– - OK, I gotta ask: what’s the Slackoisie, and why should they matter to the rest of us?
The Slackoisie thinks Work is About Them–not about Buyers, Customers, Clients. The Slackoisie doesn’t matter. Just avoid them.
– - 🙂 Let’s switch gears now: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
For decades now the Wrong People have been going to American law schools. Schools attract mainly “nice, smart” people. Not enough.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
1. Bigger & ultra-efficient in-house depts. 2. GC jobs more coveted than partnership. 3. Non-lawyers doing things lawyers now do.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Hard question. Most likely I’d work as either a Travel Writer or a Talent Agent (authors, actors).
– - How do you want to be remembered?
Seriously, I’d be very honored if folks around me said I made them do 2 things: (1) Feel Alive, and (2) Think On Their Own.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Travel, Read, Run, Do Stuff Outdoors. I love water. Been a fisherman my whole life–but took up fly fishing late. I love Europe.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Legal skills/reasoning=10% of what great lawyers have/use. Use Everything you have. Don’t play by “the rules”. Think on your own.
– - And the last question of our “longest” interview: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
For decades the vast majority of folks (i.e., 90%) who’ve attended U.S. law schools should not have attended. Don’t be among them.
Solid advice. Thanks much for tweeting with us (twice!); was great to get to know you and your practice better
PS Sorry I couldn’t end on an “up” note. But we do need the right people/personality types to become lawyers. 🙂
Indeed. And it’s good advice.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, D.C., Disputes, International | Comments Off on @whataboutparis@DavidMorganLLB
June 23rd, 2011
Employment Lawyer and Accredited Mediator
Partner, Burness LLP
- @DavidMorganLLB, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @DavidMorganLLB?
Hi. I’m an employment law partner and head of the dispute resolution department @BurnessLLP. I’m an accredited mediator too.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
@BurnessLLP is a full service commercial law firm with offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scotland
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mainly large employers UK-wide. Commercial and public sectors. We’re big in media, retail and leisure
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Challenge of keeping up-to-date with developments in a fast-moving field: Age discrimination and retirement are hot topics
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I ask to visit their workplace for a tour. It’s so important to understand how their staff work, so I can shape my advice
– - That makes a lot of sense. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I defended an employer from protective award claims following redundancies. Value circa £1M (Big for #ukemplaw!) 1/2
2/2 There were multiple union-backed claims. High stakes. We successfully resolved them at judicial mediation in London
– - Why do your clients hire you?
I’m told responsiveness and client focus sets us apart @BurnessEmplaw. Relationships are important to #HR professionals
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
2 years ago – redundancies. Last year – Tribunal claim surge. This year – more positive: projects, training and deal support
– - How is social media affecting employer / employee relations in the UK? Is the law evolving in response?
Most clients now embrace it. But, for some, still a fear-factor as #HR see how it can go wrong by employee misuse at work
– - Indeed. Your firm is part of the Employment Law Alliance. What does that mean for your clients? For your firm?
Hugely important. ELA gives us a global reach to ‘best in breed’ employment lawyers around the world ~ http://t.co/6uA2D8K
– - How has the economic crisis “changed the game” with respect to employment law? Is it changed for good?
Redundancies etc. raised the profile/ importance of our practice area. UK Govt now proposing employment law reform 1/2
2/2 Flipside is (as in other practice areas) economics mean that clients are managing legal spend and doing more themselves
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
“I’m a job law expert”… That usually gets the party started! *sarcastic tabloid face*
– - :-)You recently began blogging @ Defero Blog (http://bit.ly/kwo8Ye).
Why did you start? Are you meeting your goals?
Yes. I find the style of blogging liberating: colloquial and great way to get your personality across in opinion pieces
– - Besides blogging and Twitter, what other Web 2.0 tools do you use to market your practice? How effective are they?
I’m a major proponent of LinkedIn. I run a LI Group for #HR professionals ~ http://t.co/JY48bYm >400 members and rising!
– - Congrats! Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Yes. My team and I have picked up 5 new client instructions thru LinkedIn. @BurnessLLP uses Twitter to recruit too 1/2
2/2 And we launched a free Social Media Policy initiative thru the LI Group. Sent this to >100 new contacts/ target clients
– - Innovative use of LI. Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Thanks. Tackling the competing interests of a diverse age demographic and addressing work/life balance and flexible working
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Competition from external investment in BigLaw via ABS. More knowledge sharing amongst profession & clients. Virtual offices
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I grew up in Bermuda, so maybe something in shipping or insurance. Oh … or a superstar DJ 😉
– - 🙂 How do you want to be remembered?
“Scotland’s leading employment lawyer” #noplaceformodesty #RIP
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
My 2 young kids keep me on my toes most of the time! + I’m a huge reggae fan (esp. 70’s/80’s roots, dub and early dancehall)
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Keep your skills fresh with research and pro bono. Train in mediation and negotiation skills.
– - That brings us to our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Law isn’t everything. Learn about business and soft skills – presentation, negotiation (& sales!)… Enjoy being a student!
That’s useful advice. Thanks very much for the interview today. I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice
Thanks Lance. I enjoyed it too. Great format. Thanks for giving me the platform.
@MShermanEsq
June 16th, 2011
White Collar and Social Media Law Attorney
Special Counsel, Sheppard Mullin
Author at Social Media Law Update blog
Former Los Angeles County Assistant Public Defender
Today we’re tweeting with BigLaw trial / social media attorney and former LA Country Ass’t Public Defender @mshermanesq
- @mshermanesq Welcome to 22 Tweets and thank you for joining us today. Tell us, who is @mshermanesq?
A Calif. native, Smith College undergrad, UCLA law grad, litigation atty, writer and speaker on social media legal issues
– - Tell us about your law practice.
Complex business litigation, and social media legal consulting to businesses – if they are on Facebook, they want to talk to me
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mostly medium size to large businesses, including government contractors
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue on the minds of those clients?
Resolving business disputes cost efficiently w/a great result for the co. & its shareholders. No one benefits from long litigation
– - Indeed. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I am always available to them, don’t hesitate to call me w/any question, concern. My job is to take most of the worry off of them
– - Am sure they appreciate. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
Getting a criminal case dismissed 4 an innocent man who had gone thru the Midnight Mission rehab/job program http://t.co/MZ48sfG
– - Why do your clients hire you?
They know I am smart, will work tirelessly 4 them, get good results, and be invested in their companies like they are
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Litigation – it is generally the most active practice area in a firm especially in slower economic periods like we are in right now
– - How does your experience as Assistant Public Defender early in your career help your clients today?
Being a public defender sharpens trial skills. Dealing w/bad facts often & winning, only sharpens outside the box litigation skills
– - What will be the next battleground in social media law? Who should be concerned?
Privacy and whether companies r following their terms of use, and protecting the private info that they gather from their users
– - That’s definitely an issue of concern…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
“Have u heard of Facebook? I am the person who helps businesses w/the legal issues for being on FB & having employees who r on it”
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
About 8 mos ago, providing useful info, staying more current w/news & legal developments, & connecting 2 people w/related interests
My objectives have stayed pretty much the same once I became active. I received great advice 4 my Twitter activity from @changesq
– - You blog at Social Media Law Update (http://t.co/Alfp0TG). Who do your write it for? Why should they read it?
Target audience is businesses who want a non-legalese discussion of social media legal issues & practical suggest’ns from a SM user
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Biggest benefit has been people finding me = invitations 2 speak, journalists quoting me, a book in the works & a monthly column
– - Pretty big benefits indeed. What does your firm leadership think about your active online presence?
They are very supportive of my online presence, & w/out my social media blog at the firm, I would not have made it this far
– - That’s great. Let’s switch gears a bit now. What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
The shrinking of the legal market, less jobs & opportunities for new attorneys. I don’t see this as a temporary state of affairs
– - What then will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
That is one crystal ball that is very foggy to me. My hope is that alternative dispute resolution will be used more, and early on.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
A career counselor, social worker, journalist, chef, food writer – I am doing what I love and dabbling in all of the above
– - How do you want to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as a great tennis player, but since that is not likely to happen, I will settle 4 being a nice person
– - 🙂 What do you do when you’re not working?
See movies, visit w/friends, cook, hike w/my dogs, go to the theater, try a new restaurant, take a spinning or pilates class, blog
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Use social media to network with as many people as possible, become involved in bar association and legal groups, and don’t give up
– - And the final question of today’s interview: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Use social media to network w/as many people as possible, become involved in bar assn & legal groups, and find time for internships
ABA sections and other legal groups are very receptive to law students who want to get involved early.
Good, consistent advice. 🙂 Thanks very much for tweeting with me today; I enjoyed getting to know you better
Thank you! I enjoyed myself and appreciated the thought you put into your questions.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Los Angeles, Social Media Law, Trial | Comments Off on @MShermanEsq@HyperionLaw
May 31st, 2011
Today we’re tweeting Boston IP lawyer, passionate technologist, and founder of her own law firm @HyperionLaw
- @HyperionLaw, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @HyperionLaw?
I’m a technologist, early adopter/geek, patent attorney. I passionately do outstanding work for clients I really believe in.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
It’s a radically different law firm focused on translating complex patent-ese into strategic business advice for tech companies
– - What type of clients do you represent?
I love working w/ emerging tech companies – any company with software tech, eg 2 computers & internet cloud, is right up my alley!
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Understanding case law’s impact on software #patents & how to draft claims satisfying legal reqs while remaining useful to business
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Patents are a critical tool – or tragic waste of $. Let’s discuss business goals to understand whether you benefit from filing one!
– - Interesting. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
A diabetes co had new glucose tools for useful, fun data interaction; it was satisfying to help them go from hard- to soft-ware IP!
– - I’ll bet it was. Why do your clients hire you?
An experienced, personable attorney & unabashed geek w/ solid tech background, I keep us focused on business benefits of IP
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Software #patents for tech companies with some friends-and-family or angel funding. It’s what I love so I hope it remains typical 🙂
– - You spent 5 years in a big firm before starting your own. What led you that decision? Are you meeting your objectives?
Normal fee & firm structures reduce/kill interaction between experienced attys & clients. I saw a different way. Totally successful!
– - That’s great! How are your small / med-sized tech company clients doing in this economy? Is the crisis over for them?
If you’re cash-constrained, I suspect there’s always a crisis! But these clients are adaptive and smart; they create ways to survive
– - What’s the next big frontier of IP law? Who will be most affected by it?
The biggest battle is always over growing fees. A new biz trying to preserve IP options will find it harder to afford key advice.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
“I help companies protect their world-changing technology via strategic use of IP. And run a radically different law firm to do so.”
– - Nice. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
2008. I wanted to continue developing relationships w/ favorite clients. Now I also want to get to know others working w/ tech cos
– - You blog at Hyperion Law (http://bit.ly/mMg8lK). Who do your write it for? Why should they read it?
Anyone who has to deal w/ US software #patents: CxO, GCs, entrepreneurs. I provide useful & jargon-free info, which is hard to find!
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Absolutely. One of my clients hired me after reading my posts on Quora; others decide to hire me when they read the blog.
– - Congrats on that. Let’s change gears now: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
We *could* tell clients we see their biz realities and will revamp the biz of law to forge even closer ties with them. But will we?
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Cynically, I suspect it will look much the same as it does today! Some going w/ tried & true; some working creatively w/clients.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
An astrophysicist or an anthropologist. Or maybe an anthropologist who studies humanity’s obsession with the universe 😉
– - 🙂 How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who lived and loved passionately and joyfully, gave back to the community, and was fun to be around.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I read fascinating non-fiction, check out new restaurants with my friends, travel the world with my husband, and spoil our two cats.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Take the time to do some serious soul searching about what you really want and gather info on how to get it. Don’t despair!
– - And our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Talk to many lawyers, get as much work experience in a law practice as you possibly can; work hard to understand the path you’re on
Great advice. Thank you very much for today’s interview. I enjoyed getting to know you and your practice
Thank you! I really enjoyed the discussion!
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Boston, IP | Comments Off on @HyperionLaw@ljanstis
May 24th, 2011
Employment Law and Business Immigration Lawyer
Associate at Boyes Turner
Author of the legal blog Work/Life/Law
Today we’re tweeting UK employment and business immigration lawyer, blogger, podcaster and budding drummer @ljanstis
- @ljanstis, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @ljanstis?
Thanks Lance. I’m mainly an employment and business immigration lawyer in the @btemplaw group of @boyesturner
– - Tell us about your law practice.
@boyesturner is mid-sized commercial firm based in Reading, and won Best Regional Firm in last year’s British Legal Awards
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Mainly mid- to large-sized employers
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Last year: legal (and expected) for employers to force employees to retire at 65. This year: it’s not. That’s a big deal.
– - Indeed. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Usually how to spell my name. It doesn’t bother me, but I get asked it all the time.
– - First time I’ve seen that answer…. Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I acted for employee in one of the first UK whistleblowing claims. He won >£250k, one of largest ever awards in those days
– - Why do your clients hire you?
I’m experienced, practical, committed to their work, and I don’t pick fights for the sake of it.
– - A good trait to have… What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Women claiming equal pay with men (or the other way round). Not typical, but big over the past few years
– - Does the need for UK biz immigration practice get smaller as EU gets bigger? How is your practice evolving due to that?
No. New member states typically have some kind of restriction on movement of workers for a transitional period …
… plenty to advise on there. Current gov policy is anti-biz imm and makes it difficult to get good results for clients.
– - You spent time in-house before moving into private practice. What does that experience mean for your clients today?
It means I know that legal problems can often be overcome by looking at the practical issues.
– - Interesting perspective. What’s it like sitting on the other side of the bench, as a part-time employment tribunal judge?
It’s harder work than it sometimes looks to a tribunal lawyer – but good to be able to see both sides of the story.
– - I image that’s helpful to you and your clients. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
“Employment lawyer” is usually enough.
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
Just over a year ago – on the basis of trying it and seeing what happens. That’s still the plan for now.
– - You blog (Work/Life/Law: http://bit.ly/dQZzMJ) and host podcasts for your firm. Who are they for? Why should they care?
Blog – for anyone interested in emp law. They should care because there are some interesting posts (and comments) there …
… Podcasts – for busy HR managers. They shld care b/c its a free & easy way to keep up to date, and sometimes entertaining
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Referrals – yes. Engagements – occasionally.
– - Nice that it’s paying off. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
How to respond to competition from people or organisations who don’t hold traditional legal qualifications.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Most legal services delivered by large organisations, with a few smaller firms in specialised niches.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
*long pause* I’d sort of like to be a cook/chef – but only on certain defined conditions that bear no relation to reality
– - 🙂 How do you want to be remembered?
Aaaaaargh – I have no idea *immediately books long retreat to find purpose of life*
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Not much at the moment, but in quieter times I grow fruit and veg and play guitar
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Keep your knowledge and skills up to date by working on voluntary/pro bono basis (e.g. http://www.thefru.org.uk/)
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Make sure you have more than just a legal qualification to offer potential employers – e.g. biz experience, language skills
Great advice. Thanks very much for tweeting w/me today. I enjoyed learning about you and your practice
Thanks Lance – its been fun.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Employment, Immigration, United Kingdom | Comments Off on @ljanstis@tsolignani
April 26th, 2011
Today we’re tweeting w/ @tsolignani: Italian lawyer, writer, blogger, dad, geek, Apple user
- @Tsolignani, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Tsolignani?
I was born in 1969 in Modena, Italy, where I currently live and work. I like to innovate the practice of law whenever I can
– - Tell us about your law practice.
A small multipractice firm, with around 12 atty’s, located in the sorroundings of Modena, powered by Apple and Ubuntu pc’s
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Several. I like family law, but also traditional estate cases and generally matters where new technology is involved.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting your clients?
Well, I guess you cannot find a single one. When hiring a lawyer, people would just like to know whether or not their …
candidate could be able to handle their issues, which are always different, as a matter of fact …
we don’t care so much about specialization: trying to be clever, brilliant and able to work together are better skills l
– - Interesting perspective. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
Again, people just wanna know 3 things: whether you can handle their issue, how much time and money it’ll takes…
So, this I what I usually tell them, then they have to accept my fee and other conditions and eventually we start…
Whenever I can, most of the time, I do flat fees, so that people can exactly know the cost in advance. They like it.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
The italian code of conduct forbid to mention people you worked for as a lawyer. So that I cannot tell names. But one …
of the most interesting experiences I had was being expert witness before the Crown Court, in the UK, into an extradition…
case requested by the italian government, where the court denied the extradition as for my advice
– - Why do your clients hire you?
It’s up to them and it’s always different. Someone wants a «young» firm, someone else a lawyer one can email or DM …
on twitter. Some others are Italian but live abroad and need a lawyer in the country. There really are many cases.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
I guess family law and, yes, it’s typical, but, again, beware family could embrace every branch of the law: think …
f.i. to a divorcing couple who owns a corporation whose main assets are intellectual goods; it’s a divorce, but you …
surely would need to work with an IP lawyer.
– - Indeed. How has personal (family) law in Italy changed over past ten years? What do those changes mean for your clients?
Not as much as the society did and there would be really many things to change. Other european countries, such as Spain…
and France did the innovation we missed, f.i. in marriages, allowing homosexual couples, but there would be much more
– - And how is the legal profession evolving in Italy? Do you see similar challenges as we do in the US (eg fixed fees)?
Unfortunately, the legal profession in Italy is not evolving at all: rather it is getting worse day by day, due to …
several reasons, such as judiciary system inefficiency, huge numbers of practitioners and many others …
fixed fees: a law was enforced about that and some laywers like me do fixed fees, but the most still do not
– - Change is hard everywhere…. How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I know many lawyers create an «audio logo» to spend in such cases, but I prefer not to mention my work while partying …
when someone insists, I talk about what I do, which is not necessarily the legal profession, but maybe a book or article
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
3 years ago. When trying some new «net toy», my aim is just to have fun and satisfy my curiosity. But I have to say …
twitter later did the trick for me. I use it everyday, have fun and many a good clients found me over there
– - You blog at http://bit.ly/dUDVl1. Who do you write it for? Why should they read it?
For the common people, not for other lawyers. They can read to understand some basic notion and principles of the law
– - You mentioned clients finding you on Twitter: can you quantify the new engagements you’ve got from Web 2.0?
Well, it is far for getting near my core business but it is promising and worth keep working on it
– - Tell us about “Guide to Separation & Divorce.” It’s a difficult subject. How do you make it less so for your clients?
If there’s something we lawyers exists for, if any, is explaining the law to common people in an effective way. We have …
change our language and literally translate in simpler terms what we are used to think in a more complicated form, but …
I guess it is worth it. A lawyer is a good one only if he or she can communicate with everyone and turn simple what is not
– - Very well put. What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
The fab 5? 1 get hired 2 do the work 3 get paid 4 try to save some money from bills and taxes 5 still keep smiling
– - 🙂 What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
We Italians live in an idle country where, when something changes, often gets worse. I have no idea, I just know I have …
2 children and I hope neither of them gets to be a lawyer, there are many more funny and interesting things to do, as yet
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I adore writing and sometimes I think about trying some short stories or even a novel, but I do not think I ever will 🙂
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As a man with whom you could talk to and get some answer, some advice, some suggestion or even comprehension. A man who …
helped someone, sometimes.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
As of today, mostly playing with my children. But I like «creative idling» too and «practice» whenever I can
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
First off: choose whether you still want to practice or not. There are many other interesting things to do and where you …
you can earn the same or even more money. If you decide to stay a lawyer, then prepare to do much more the marketing side
– - And our final question of the interview: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Try to get the best from the school experience and, once out, choose very carefully the career, maybe trying with stages
Very good advice, for both groups. Thank you for tweeting with us today; I enjoyed learning about you and your practice
I have learned so much too. Thank you for interviewing me. Have a nice day.
@mksinghlaw
April 12th, 2011
Today we’re tweeting with Seattle small business / start-up / entrepreneur lawyer @mksinghlaw
- @mksinghlaw thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @mksinghlaw?
I’m an entrepreneur stuck in the stereotype of service professionals…
MK Singh is out there just like any other solopreneur trying to grow and learn from others.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
the practice is about relationships. Relationships is about doing more than just legal work…
We offer educational seminars, invite clients to networking events, make introductions, and even suggest ideas for their business.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
Entrepreneurs, creative professionals, small to medium size businesses, and start ups.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
Intellectual Property – do they have it? and how do they protect it?
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I don’t believe in billing for the initial time we spend getting to know each other so ask questions or email me later.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
That’s a tough one. I’ve represented a variety of clients from the window cleaner to the next group buying concept…
right now i’m enjoying helping a client with her new yoga studio. I guess they are all significant to me in one way or another.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
I think its because they feel comfortable with me. I think of myself as an entrepreneur so we have something in common right away…
I always make time to get to know the person and their business so that I can refer business or suggest resources…
The best compliment I’ve received: ‘it doesn’t feel like i’m working with an attorney.’
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
Business formation. Yes its typical. People are constantly innovating and i’m thrilled to be part of the momentum…
I can’t tell you how many of my clients are microsoft, boeing, amazon, etc. employees by day and entrepreneurs by night.
– - Hmmm…. How are your small business / start-up clients doing in today’s economy? Are things improving in Seattle?
I think they are doing quite well. They are finding a need or a problem and striving to solve it…
I feel like Seattle is a great place to be a start up. There are endless resources and the vibe is just incredible. Just today…
– - How do the legal needs of your small business and start-up clients differ from those of other companies?
Legal needs for startups and small businesses are more focused on governance, contracts and intellectual property…
while companies tend to have more employment, non-compete and policy concerns
Most of the work is done fixed fee or on retainer. It makes it easier to budget when you know what your costs are going to be..
– - It looks like you offer a number of fixed-fee options. Is all of your work done on that basis? Why?
I’m fairly flexible and its very important to me that legal costs don’t get in the way of building your business.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I’m a small business and social media attorney. I work with those who who want to work with a knowledgeable innovative attorney…
offering a new perspective and take on the legal profession.
– - You write a blog, at http://bit.ly/i9LVaf. Who do you write for? Why should they read it?
The blog is for people thinking of starting their own business. I strive to provide practical information in lieu…
of reviews of recent case law. I get suggestions from clients and the community so its tailored for them.
– - You’re also active on Quora. Has that been an effective marketing channel for you? Doesn’t it carry additional risks?
Not as much as I would like. I think quora is bigger in California just based on some of the questions on there…
Quora has done a good job of mitigating the risks by offering lawyers an option to automatically add a legal disclaimer.
– - What specific impact on referrals and/or client engagements, if any, have you realized from Web 2.0 activities?
Quite a bit! Its been extremely useful in building relationships and getting found…
People check more than just your website these days and…
if you want to attract the clients you want to work with then you need to make yourself visible I try to accomplish that via web 2.0
– - Indeed. Let’s switch gears here: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Legal outsourcing. Is it being used? is it effective? why aren’t client costs lower as a result of it? Lots of debate in this area.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Probably a lot of outsourcing which will hopefully lead to more innovation in the profession.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I’ve wanted to be a lawyer since I was 12 so I haven’t thought about much else…
I think I would work on some of my other ideas: foodtruck, bags, shared space, phone app, or maybe go to bollywood and try my luck!
– - How do you want to be remembered?
As someone you could truly count on and who you knew was doing their best for you. And as an active member of the community!
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Exploring Seattle. I only moved here 2 years ago from KS so the whole hiking, camping, biking thing is still relatively new for me
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Network with lawyers who practice in the area you want to be in. Network in communities you would like to work with..
I also recommend seeking out contract work and volunteering in the community and with the local bar association.
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
As long as you work hard and make the most of the opportunities available you will do great and you won’t have as much debt!
Thank you! I really enjoyed this tweet-erview (we need a better word for this).
Thank YOU very much for tweeting with me today. I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice.
@omarharedeye
March 30th, 2011
Student-at-Law
Ontario Bar Association Articling Student Ambassador
Blogger at OmarHa-Redeye.com
Contributor to Slaw and The Lawyers Weekly
Today we’re tweeting w/ Articling Student Ambassador, HazMat respondent, and author of the Blawg Review of the Year @omarharedeye
- @omarharedeye, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @omarharedeye?
Remember the Shaft theme song? I’m a complicated man, and finally resigned myself to this fact. Just trying to have my type of fun.
– - Well, your bio reads a little like a spy novel, making it hard to know where to start…. What are you currently doing?
I’m in the last stage of becoming a lawyer in Ontario, Canada. We work under another lawyer in a process called “articling.”
– - You finish your articles soon, don’t you? What’s next for you? Part of a firm or your own practice?
No plans for my own practice any time soon. Litigation is highly leveraged, and cost consequences here make group practice prudent.
– - Where do you see yourself in five years? What type of practice, what type of firm, etc.?
That really depends on the opportunities. The legal profession here is still hesitant with social media, and I’m extremely visible.
– - Indeed. You are the Ontario Bar’s “Articling Student Ambassador” for the Toronto Region. What does that role entail?
Mostly meetings with exec. Advocating student interests. Encouraging participation in the OBA. Meeting lots of interesting people.
– - You’ve seen how others do it. How well does the CA system stack up in preparing students for “the real world” of law?
We balance strengths of US and UK systems; previous education, and practical experience. But only practice prepares for practice.
– - You have a very storied past: nuclear medicine, health admin, corporate comms and PR. Why did you become a lawyer?
I still do all of those careers in some capacity, even today. Law is just the newest layer in the skills and interests I’m pursuing.
– - And how will your passions of the past shape your practice of the future?
It’s the reason I engage in social media, I’m involved in the bar and teach. Life experience taught me to give back and value input.
– - Nice philosophy. What lessons did you learn doing communications for a provincial cabinet minister?
Politics and law are intricately related, there’s no escaping it. Any lawyer interested in reform or advocacy must become political.
– - Tell us about going to South-East Asia after the 2004 tsunami. What did you do there? Where?
We set up a medical clinic in a small rural area called Panton Labu. Only possible because of diplomatic relationships we developed.
– - Must have been very satisfying to help that way. How do you describe yourself to people you meet at a cocktail party?
Just Omar. Then find commonalities with them; there’s almost always something. Everyone ends up knowing a slightly different Omar.
– - You blog, for your site http://bit.ly/f9zjmk and these http://bit.ly/em4ZpG http://bit.ly/8sA3xP. Why do you do it?
I have a lot to say. It’s fun, and I meet people. And dozens Google my name every day. I have to give them something to talk about.
– - 🙂 Congrats on winning Blawg Review of the Year for BR #278 http://bit.ly/g2wput. Will it be your last BR?
Unlikely. We all need to engage in more online projects that refer to other sites, across jurisdictions. Builds stronger community.
– - What’s the role of social media for lawyers today? Mktg tool? Relationship tool? Info tool? All of the above? None?
All of the above. Few lawyers thrive in isolation/obscurity. People, including clients, are online. Let’s join them in a classy way.
– - But you were “social” before social media (eg, Pres of 3 student clubs). Is online different or just diff channels?
Exactly. Online activity should continue in person. Continuity is important, & I’ve always been pretty sociable before social media.
– - Indeed. Let’s switch gears. What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
How effectively can a service-based industry efficiently adapt to a rapidly changing economy without compromising client quality?
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
Similar to today, given our resistance to change. But technology is a game changer, allowing firm growth we haven’t seen in decades.
– - The answer to this one is probably pretty easy, but what would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Probably work on my other half dozen careers. Surprisingly not much different than now, i.e. writing, teaching, pro bono, comm work.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
The guy who figured out how to clone himself. Or work without sleep. The story isn’t over yet, and many memories to come, I hope.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Seems I’m always working these days. Family, friends, like everyone. A few eccentric reading hobbies. Lots of movies for down time.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
No job doesn’t mean you can’t work. Write a book, build a blog, volunteer in community. Stay busy, jobs will come if you’re positive
– - And our final question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Play the long game, starting today. Don’t succumb to negative behaviour. Nice guys do finish first, so keep giving to your peers.
That’s useful advice. Thank you for an interesting interview today; I enjoyed getting to know you better
Thank you, Lance. It was my pleasure.
Filed under Twitterviews | Tags: Blawger, Litigation, Toronto | Comments Off on @omarharedeye@LegalBizzle
March 15th, 2011
In-house commercial / contracts lawyer
Author of The Bizzle blog
Relatively ordinary person with a sense of perspective and a social conscience
Today we’re v excited to be tweeting w/ @legalbizzle, in-house commercial & contracts lawyer who’s been “saving your ass since 1999”
- @legalbizzle thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @legalbizzle?
I’m a commercial contracts lawyer who trained and works in-house. I’m probably not as good as I think I am
– - Can you tell us about your company. What does it do?
We do outsourced customer contact and back office processing for private and public sectors. Service, sales, collections etc
– - How do you describe your role at that company?
I negotiate contracts and provide general advice. I also manage the legal team incl contentious work, reporting to the GC.
– - Beyond the in-house services you provide, what are your company’s typical legal needs?
Specialist contract advice (e.g. public procurement) and also regulatory advice, employment and debt litigation
– - How many outside firms do you generally work with? Is that the right number?
Two each for commercial work and debt lit, one for employment, and ad hoc for specialist. We don’t send much outside, so yes
– - Let’s talk about your selection of lawyers. What type of sales / marketing pitch do you respond well to?
One that recognises our difference from other clients, in terms of the nature of our business and our legal needs
– - Makes sense…. And what sales talk is guaranteed to send you running? How often do you hear it?
One that ignores our in-house capability and assumes that we need advice on basic issues. Too often, unfortunately
– - Does social media enter into the equation when you’re selecting outside counsel? How?
(1/2) Not historically, but there’s lawyers showing expertise on Twitter that would lead me to them if I had a specific need
(2/2) We’ve done that recently, based on responses to a question that I tweeted. My boss now thinks I’m a social media guru
– - What about fee arrangements? Hourly billing, alternative fees, etc: what’s typical for your company?
We want caps or fixes on transactional work. Firms won’t ditch hourly billing for contentious work – this needs to change
– - Couldn’t be more clear…. How important are perso relationships in hiring process? Do you hire lawyers you never met?
Essential for core work (see my blog). For specialist work expertise has more weight but there’s still a personal dimension
– - What does the Legal Services Act mean for you as a client? Better service? Lower costs? Something else?
Very little so far. But the nature of our business means that there might be conflicts that stop us instructing some ABSs
– - When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
(1/2) In May 2010. My aim was and is to have fun, but it’s been amazing for news, expertise, support, friends and much more
(2/2) It has so many facets, why rule any of them out? So I’m happy to let it take me wherever it leads
– - Great approach…. You blog (http://bit.ly/flEYxg) and tweet anonymously. Why the secrecy? Is it a burden or a relief?
I prefer anonymity because I’m self-conscious about my writing, so it gives freedom in that sense. I try not to abuse that
– - But in spite of your anonymity, your writing is often very personal. Is there a line between public & private? Where?
(1/2) I don’t have much to say about actual law that others can’t say far better, so I blog about my work and my experiences
(2/2) But there is a balance between being interesting and being responsible. I don’t know if I always get that right
– - It certainly seems you do. You give out a lot of advice in your blog. Who is it for? Do you know if they’re reading it?
I write for myself but I appreciate it a lot when people read or share a post. It’s exciting to contribute to a conversation
– - We’re glad that you do….. What would you say is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
It seems there’s pressure on revenue, from legal aid cuts to ABSs. But the in-house sector is somewhat insulated from these
– - What are the biggest legal issues facing in-house lawyers & how do they affect their employers’ ability to do business?
In my work, the rise of coercive procurement practices, which leads to an imbalance of risk between buyers and sellers
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I studied philosophy at university, so if I wasn’t a lawyer I’d probably be sitting at home in my pants watching daytime TV
– - 🙂 How do you want to be remembered?
As a good lawyer, and someone who made a contribution to the success of the business that employs me. And as a good husband
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
Sorry, I don’t understand the question… But sometimes I’m allowed out to see bands and spend time with my amazing wife
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Look in-house – we may hire more as we look to cut our external spend. But you need to show the right skills
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Read my blog? More seriously, knowing the law is standard, so develop your non-legal skills to differentiate yourself
Solid advice and yes, your blog is very instructive re real life as a lawyer. Thanks so much for the great interview!
Much thanks to @22twts and @LanceGodard for great interview – really enjoyed doing that.
@legallyerin
February 1st, 2011
Atlanta and Chicago-based personal injury lawyer
Owner, The Russell Group
Author of law and foodie blog Legally Erin
Today we’re tweeting w/Atlanta & Chicago-based attorney @legallyerin: litigator, counselor, foodie, amateur photographer, gadget nut
- @Legallyerin, thank you for joining us on Twitter. Tell us, who is @Legallyerin?
I’m Erin Russell. I’m a litigator, foodie and amateur photog. I’m licensed to practice in both Illinois and Georgia.
– - Tell us about your law practice.
I recently launched The Russell Group. We focus on wrongful death, injury and business litigation & women’s legal issues.
– - What type of clients do you represent?
We represent people who have been injured, their families, business owners and victims of domestic & sexual violence.
– - And what would you say is the single most important legal issue affecting those clients?
My injury clients need fair compensation. My business clients need to protect their assets while they grow their dreams.
– - What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
That our relationship is based on trust and on truth. Both are essential to a successful attorney-client relationship.
– - Tell us about one of the more significant client representations you’ve had.
I recently handled a wrongful death case involving a man killed in a trucking accident on a snowy road. Really tragic.
– - Why do your clients hire you?
They hire me because they trust and like me. They know I am smart and qualified, and that I really care about their cases.
– - What’s the most active area of your practice at the current time? Is that typical?
My injury practice is growing, but my corporate practice is, too. So many smart people are starting new businesses now.
Typical, hard to say. But entrepreneurship is definitely on the rise.
– - That’s a positive sign…. What would you say is the most difficult aspect of being a personal injury lawyer?
Gathering, quantifying and assigning $ value to my clients’ suffering. It is the nature of the practice, but it is hard.
– - Can only imagine. You represent attorneys on ethics / malpractice. What led you to that work? Have you always done it?
I love representing fellow attorneys, and advising them on ethics issues. Been doing it 3 or so years. …
I started doing legal mal defense work in Atlanta. Now advise on social media, advertising, conflicts, all areas of ethics.
I love representing fellow attorneys and am very active on ethics matters.
– - Tell us about the women’s legal services you offer. What do they entail? Who are your clients? How do you help them?
I’m excited about the women’s legal services part of my practice. It is really two-fold. First, I represent female entrepreneurs…
and assist them in starting their businesses. Second, I represent women who are victims of domestic or sexual violence…
on a pro bono, flat fee or sliding fee basis depending on income. Finances should not dictate whether a woman can be safe.
– - How do you describe what you do to people you meet at a cocktail party?
I tell them I do litigation and talk about my corporate practice. People like talking about their dreams and goals…
The best way to engage them is to talk about what they need, and what I can do to help them get it. It’s a lot of fun.
– - Indeed. When did you become active on Twitter? What were your objectives then? Have they changed?
About a year ago. My objectives were then as they are now: To engage people, know them, and learn about them. …
Marketing rules for attorneys are tough. More so in some states than others. Social media presents challenges. …
But if you show a genuine interest in people, and form real relationships, social and business opportunities follow.
– - Makes sense. You blog at Legally Erin (http://bit.ly/blQqsG). Who do you write it for? Why should they read it?
Lawyers, people who like law, people who are curious about law. It’s no accident that so much of what we see on tv…
film and on the news relates to law. It captivates people. It’s important and affects real people every day. …
I write to inform, entertain and engage people. To create dialogue. They should read my blog because it is fun, accurate…
heartfelt and engaging. I love suggestions and comments. It’s a way to open discussion and share.
– - Have your Web 2.0 activities led to any additional referrals or client engagements?
Absolutely. The Web is how people come together now. I get calls, messages on Twitter and Facebook and emails often…
from people I meet online asking for legal advice, seeking representation, or seeking to refer someone to me. …
It’s all about the relationships, and about letting people discover that you’re sincerely concerned about their issues.
– - Congrats on that. Let’s switch gears: What is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Economics, to be sure. The billable hour is no longer king. People are attracted to alternative menus of services …
as well as alternative payment arrangements. Flat fee representation is becoming very popular, and is antithetical …
to the old-school law firm model of practice. People are becoming more savvy consumers of legal services, and that’s good…
In order to really thrive, firms will need to keep that in mind going forward, & continue to innovate delivery of services.
– - What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
It will be leaner, more flexible. Though traditional practice will continue, there will be more room for creativity. …
There will be a much greater presence of virtual practices, and more accessibility for the average person.
– - What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
That’s so hard to say. I love being a lawyer and feel so proud and privileged to be able to do so. If I couldn’t do this…
maybe I’d try to be a chef or a photographer. But this is what I truly love, and wouldn’t want to do anything else.
– - How do you want to be remembered?
I hope to be remembered as someone who did good, who gave freely, had good intentions, and forgave easily. …
I hope I eased someone’s suffering, helped someone prosper, and made a difference in someone’s life.
– - What do you do when you’re not working?
I try to create something beautiful. It balances the stresses of litigation. I cook. I take photographs. …
I undertake art projects of varying degrees of difficulty to varying degrees of success. I read voraciously.
– - What advice can you pass along to lawyers currently under- or unemployed due to the economic crisis?
Remain visible in the profession. Volunteer. Be active in bar association events. Align yourself with other lawyers. …
Also, try to remain positive, at least publicly. Things will and do turn around, and you have more control than you think.
– - And our final question for you: What advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Work hard. You’re going to love doing this if you do it right. Get real experience. Clerk. Volunteer. Ask questions. …
Also, be sure to examine many practice areas so you end up engaged in one you truly enjoy. And always be honest & ethical.
That’s good advice. Thanks much for tweeting with us today; I enjoyed learning more about you and your practice
Thank you for having me! I enjoyed it very much! Cheers!
