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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Why Some Cases Belong in Front of a Jury, Not a Mediator
2
Want Your Teen to Open Up? Try Asking These Heartfelt Questions
2
When Everyday Activities Are Used Against You
3
Experience Made the Difference
3
Honey Mustard Pork Chops
4
Excellent Client Service Includes Swift, Clear Communication
The choice of a lawyer is an important one and should not be based solely upon advertisements.
Alex on Following the 24-Hour Rule in Client Communication NO GUESSING, NO WAITING
Almost daily in our practice, we receive both positive and negative news. I strive to follow a 24-Hour Rule regarding sharing any new developments with our clients. The 24-Hour Rule is a straightforward yet
in this situation. It is my obligation to lead our client forward. In some ways, surveillance by an insurance company actually turns out to be a gift for our side. Someone from the defense will have to explain this intrusive action before a jury. I do not envy them that task. At a minimum, the 24-Hour Rule is a foundation of trust in the attorney-client relationship. Waiting to communicate important news can lead to worry or speculation. My goal is to help our clients feel empowered and involved in this journey. Furthermore, I have found that prompt updates always create opportunities for discussion about anything on our client’s mind. When delivering news, I strive to communicate complex legal issues clearly and simply, so my client can easily understand. I also share with the client whether I have a plan to respond. And if I don’t, I pledge to take the necessary time to reflect and strategize together. The 24-Hour Rule is more than just a guideline; as a member of the legal profession, it’s a commitment to excellence in client service. What are some core rules you live by?
powerful principle whereby I commit to communicating any news — good or bad — to my client within 24 hours at most . I prefer, when I’m able, to tell the client as soon as I receive it. Let me give an example. One of the worst kinds of bad news we receive is notification from a defense lawyer or an insurance company that they conducted surveillance on our client (as described on Page 2 of this newsletter). It is stomach-dropping news. This practice by insurance companies makes my skin crawl. It feels like a violation. We rarely see this practice by insurance companies, but when it happens, I feel obligated to tell our client immediately. Regardless of the tension and frustration I might feel, I have to exhale and deliver the news immediately. Empathy is required
Practicing in Missouri and Illinois
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