Could licensed lawyers ever go the way of the Dodo and S & H Green Stamps? I came across this recent article in the Wall Street Journal about the growing interest by non-traditional law…
Read ArticleEvery lawyer whose practice includes mediating civil cases is bound at some point to come face to face with the concept of a “mediator’s Proposal,” also called a “mediator’s number.” Here’s what happens: the…
Read ArticleSo much in our lives, both professional and personal, lies outside our control. Focusing on the professional, most lawyers will never be fortunate enough to be able to limit our practice to only perfect clients who march into…
Read ArticleI recently participated in a conference about negotiation. I left with a list of negotiation “pointers,” short strategies to help keep your eyes on the prize when negotiating. I’ll share five good ones here.…
Read ArticleIt is no exaggeration to say that I learn something (or many things) from every mediation or settlement conference I attend. I recently traveled to Fresno to attend a settlement conference before a talented…
Read ArticleEvery one of us carries a measure of optimism whenever we decide to undertake something. Undoubtedly owing to a cluster of deep-seated personality defects, I find I often see a glass as half empty.…
Read ArticleI asked several top Southern California mediators I know personally or by reputation to share their best “tip” for success at mediation. In exchange for their labors, I promised the prestige and notoriety of…
Read ArticlePerhaps this is unique to California, but I just received another announcement from our attorney service of a courthouse closure. In addition, the notice mentioned yet another court that, although not closing altogether, was…
Read ArticleHaving the time and inclination to prepare as much as necessary–even over-prepare–really is a great equalizer when it comes to the trial lawyer’s craft. I had the good fortune to practice for a brief…
Read ArticleShould our trial preparation and presentation be appreciably different when trying a bench trial or arbitration before a single arbitrator? If so, how? As in most instances, McElhaney offers spectacular guidance on this…
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