Legal Talk Network - Law News and Legal Topics

In the first 325 DNA exonerations, false identification accounted for 72% of the wrongful convictions. But how is that possible? The simplest explanation is that we are not as good at identifying each other as we think. Add to that a frightening encounter with someone of a different race with no time for the mind to process and you have the perfect formula for getting it all wrong. Host Michael Semanchik sits down with retired Los Angeles Detective Greg McKnight, Distinguished Professor of Psychology John Wixted, and California Innocence Project Founder Justin Books to discuss the science of misidentifications and why so many people who were so sure got it so wrong. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clio, the longtime, long-trusted software tech provider for lawyers, has plunged into the accounting game. Time and case management, billing, payments, and simply keeping track of your bottom line all take up time when you could be doing something else, like, you know, serving your clients’ needs. Now Clio has baked that accounting service directly into its practice management software package. Frankly, attorneys – especially new solo practitioners – may have been taught very little about running a business. Being a good lawyer is only part of the game. Lawyers also need to know how to manage money and accounting. That’s where software and money management programs can help, including tax prep, accounting for ongoing work in anticipation of payment, capital distributions, and handling funds your clients have entrusted you with. Hear why legal-specific accounting is so important (hint, legal accounting is not like any other accounting, and mistakes can truly hurt your practice). Plus, the top five features that must be part of any legal accounting platform. Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at [email protected] Topics: Law schools and legal training may overlook the importance of accounting for a new law firm. It’s not intuitive. Hear how legal practice management firm Clio is incorporating legal-specific accounting functions into its platform Practicing law is what you signed up for, but managing money is what will keep your firm running. Never forget, your firm is a business that depends on accounting. Tax management, income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow management are not only crucial, but very weirdly specific in the world of legal accounting. Mentioned in This Episode: Clio Clio Accounting and Demo 2024 Legal Trends for Solo and Small Law Firms New Solo, “Oh, The Messes We See” New Solo, “Money Management 101 for Solo and Small Firm Professionals” New Solo, “Winning The Battle: When It’s Time To ‘Modernize’ But There’s One Holdout” cpnLEGAL Affinity Consulting Joshua’s Previous Appearances on Legal Talk Network: New Solo, “HIPAA Happens, But Compliance Software Can Help” On Balance: “Insights on Clio’s 2023 Legal Trends Report with Joshua Lenon” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Justice David W. Ellis has served on the Illinois Appellate Court for the 1st District for nearly 10 years. But readers may know him better as author David Ellis, writer of more than a dozen legal thrillers. Ellis had enjoyed creative writing as a youth, he tells the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles in this episode of The Modern Law Library. But during his college and law school years, he was focused solely on his legal career path. It wasn’t until he had been in practice for a few years that this changed. During a vacation at the beach, he suddenly decided that he was going to write a novel—and once that goal was set, he worked relentlessly towards it. And in 2002, he won a prestigious Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for that first novel, Line of Vision. Both branches of Ellis’s career have seen tremendous returns. He made national news in 2009 as the prosecutor of the impeachment of Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich before the state senate. He was the youngest-serving justice in 2014 when he joined the Illinois Appellate Court for the 1st District, which serves Chicago and Cook County. And along the way, he published 11 novels, including the four-book Jason Kolarich series. He was a finalist for the ABA Journal-sponsored Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction in 2012 and 2013. He has also co-written nine books with James Patterson, the latest of which (Lies He Told Me) will be released in September. In this episode, Ellis and Rawles discuss his July release, The Best Lies. The germ of an idea that became The Best Lies started off with the notion of a main character who was a diagnosed pathological liar. When the book opens, Leo Balanoff, a criminal defense attorney in Chicago, has just been arrested for murder. Police have collected DNA and fingerprints at the scene that are a match for a college-era bar fight Leo was charged for, and the victim had an ugly history with one of Leo’s clients. Over the course of The Best Lies, twists and turns across multiple timelines and through multiple points of view begin to reveal what really happened. Ellis weaves a tale combining corporate espionage, violin concertos, police corruption and the Estonian mob. Ellis also discusses his writing process, his 3:30 a.m. wake-up time, the similarities in his creative and legal writing, and how his judicial ethics concerns sometimes impact his editorial decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's not so easy to bring everyone back. ----- Latham announced a new 4-day office work week, bucking the 3-day consensus, but attorneys are wondering where they plan to put everybody. Meanwhile Milbank is so eager to get to work that they're inviting first-years to start early. Another firm joins the non-equity partner ranks, and the DOJ files an antitrust case with some of the hottest docs ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary R. Russell offers her thoughts on how to conduct yourself in court and why we must retain confidence in the judicial system. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may be losing prospective clients if their experience on your website is mediocre—or just plain bad. The guys share how to fix things up to grow your business. ----- What do marketing pros look for when they check into a law firm’s website? Gyi and Conrad take us through their processes as they take a deep dive into the structure and content of a Denver PI law firm website. They explain what to be on the lookout for, how issues with both site content and coding negatively affect a user’s experience, and tools they use to assess the visibility, credibility, and success of a site. The News: Will there be any enforcement behind this? We hope so: FTC Fake Reviews Rule and the End of “Fake Reviews”? (John Henson). Looks like Google AI Overviews Are Impacted By Core Updates, but will it change anything? Joy Hawkins writes about How Links Impact Organic Results and Local Packs, but Gyi’s got beef. AI Overviews Research: Analyzing sources in Google’s AI-generated answers—Are you tracking this stuff? You should be! Clio Sets Legal Tech Funding Record with $900M Raise at $3B Valuation. Someone’s got to compete with them, but can they, really? Mentioned in this Episode: LEX Summit Digital Marketing Q&A / Live Taping of Lunch Hour Legal Marketing The Bite - Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter! Leave Us an Apple Review Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on YouTube Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An attorney who has provided civil legal services to people experiencing homelessness shares her perspective on Talk Justice. Carolyn Perez is passionate about correcting common misconceptions around homelessness, saying those we see on the street are only “the tip of the iceberg,” and many families who are homeless are invisible. Perez also describes how legal problems like medical debt, domestic violence and natural disaster recovery contribute to the loss of housing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How are you doing? Not you, personally, your business. Do you know? Because many small businesses, including small law firms, don’t have a true CFO, someone who doesn’t just do your taxes, but who helps you understand your business, your bottom line, and your future. Danielle Hendon is the founder and CEO of 4 Corners CFO, bringing the benefit of “big business” financial analysis to entrepreneurs and business owners at a cost they can afford. She and her firm are “fractional CFOs,” providing the analysis and planning you need to stabilize your business, develop consistent revenue models, and grow with a goal in mind. Hendon helps businesses, like yours, evaluate where they are, how things are doing, what your “real profit” is, and how to set and move toward goals. Allocating overhead, hiring, understanding gross and net profit, and growing with purpose is all doable. Hear about “bottom-up budgeting,” understanding cash flow forecasts and how a CFO, even a part time CFO, can help spot red flags and build the pillars that will lift your business. Mentioned in This Episode: 4 Corners CFO Join the next Community Table live. What’s on your mind? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Cindy Chang, a personal brand coach and marketing strategist, discusses sustainable client relationships and strategic branding for business owners, particularly those in service-based industries. Cindy shares insights from her experience working with Fortune 500 companies and running her own business, The Hustling Heart. Key points include the importance of distinguishing oneself from the company, the role of problem-solving and thought leadership in branding, and practical strategies for maintaining client relationships. The discussion also touches on utilizing one's network effectively, the value of feedback, and balancing reputation with personal connections. Cindy gives listeners actionable tips on: 00:00 Intro 01:36 Transitioning from a Firm to Your Own Business 03:37 Establishing Your Unique Identity 07:07 Gathering Feedback and Building Reputation 09:45 Maintaining Client Relationships 13:45 The Value of Personal Connections 15:17 Starting and Sustaining Your Own Business 23:31 The Role of Referrals and Networking 25:05 Thought Leaders Library: Book Recommendation 33:16 One Big Takeaway Resources mentioned in this episode: Grit by Angela Duckworth Connect with Cindy here: Instagram LinkedIn http://www.thehustlingheart.com Connect with me Instagram Pinterest Facebook Twitter Karin on Twitter Karin on LinkedIn Conroy Creative Counsel on Facebook https://conroycreativecounsel.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can technology help self-represented litigants have better outcomes in our legal systems? Amanda Brown considers exactly that on a daily basis in her role at the Lagniappe Law Lab, a justice tech non-profit in Louisiana. Dennis and Tom talk with Amanda about her perspectives on the justice gap and legal technology and how tech adoption, collaboration, and promoting further tech growth can help improve access to justice for underserved populations. As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Show Notes - Kennedy-Mighell Report #371 A Segment: Fresh Voice Amanda Brown B Segment: Continue with Fresh Voice Amanda Brown Parting Shots: Perplexity AI Readwise Gemini How Can Law Professors Effectively Teach AI Literacy to Law Students, by Dennis Kennedy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One challenge young lawyers encounter—especially in demanding corporate roles—is starting a family while advancing in their careers. Managing and balancing work and family isn’t something they teach in school. Guest Kimberly “Kim” Maney is a busy, successful in-house corporate attorney for a global corporation. She’s also a mom and a spouse who taught herself how to balance 10-hour days and constant demands from her job while carving out time for family. Raising a family is hard work, everything from coordinating childcare to spending meaningful time with children. And then, later, as kids grow up, there are soccer games, ballet recitals, and vacations. In today’s world of connectivity, it can be too easy to just “take a call” during the family trip to Disney World. You’ll need to develop and communicate boundaries with your coworkers and your organization. Maney shares how she leaned on coworkers who were already parents and even Facebook parent support groups as she learned to create space for family while excelling at her job. Stephen C. Dinkel served as the associate producer on this episode of Young Lawyer Rising. Resources: Legal Careers of Parents and Child Caregivers: Results and Best Practices from a National Study of the Legal Profession Parenthood Positivity: How to Use Parenthood in the Trajectory of Your Legal Career Parental Leave in the Legal Field: Managing Employee and Employer Expectations Attorneys Make the Case for Equal Parental Leave Balancing Fatherhood and a Legal Career as a Young Lawyer Juggling a Firm and a Family Tips for Balancing a Legal Career and First-Time Motherhood American Bar Association American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter where you fit in an organization in the legal system, you’re likely to find yourself at some point involved in a case headed to alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation or arbitration. Guest Nikki Mehrpoo speaks from a lengthy career in law focusing on Workers’ Compensation and immigration law. In Workers’ Comp cases, the ability of a judge, mediator, and arbitrator to listen without bias and weigh cases solely on the facts and the law is crucial. And as a legal professional, when representing a Workers’ Comp complainant, it can be especially vital to sift facts from biases and prepare a case that clearly presents the facts in a manner a deciding party can follow. Mehrpoo also shares some excellent career advice on the importance of legal technology, keeping up with the latest developments in tech and the law, and finding a mentor. Your education is never complete. Embrace every opportunity to pick up a new skill and new information, whether that’s from an industry newsletter, a quick tutorial, or in a classroom. Take the time to invest in yourself. If you have insights you’d like to share or a topic you’d like us to take on, please send us a note at [email protected] and [email protected]. Mentioned in This Episode: California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) NALA Conference & Expo 2024 NALA, The Paralegal Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Expert Service Provider and Senior Safety Engineer Dr. Janine McCartney from HHC Safety Engineering Services and HHC Safety Consulting Services, Corporation discusses construction claims impacted by OSHA’s Multiemployer Worksite Citation Policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Lawyerist Lab Coach Sara Muender chats with Jordan Marsh, a civil rights and personal injury attorney and the author of Try Your Own Case. Jordan shares how he’s expanding his 100% contingency-based law firm by developing the Try Your Own Case brand into a new revenue stream. Learn about Jordan’s innovative plans for an online course and get tips on turning your legal skills into profit. This must-listen episode is perfect for law firm owners looking to diversify their income and boost their practice. Links from the episode: Get a free Marketing Plan Template from Spotlight Branding! Check out Jordan's Book: Try Your Own Case If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just because you can make an argument, doesn't mean you should. ----- Disney's lawyers made headlines last week, but not the good kind like you want. After lawyers argued that a free trial to Disney+ required a wrongful death suit to move to forced arbitration, we wondered how everyone from outside to inside counsel dropped the ball here. Immediately after recording, Disney backtracked. Also, is Skadden falling behind? And we talk legal technology! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you become a law clerk? The Simon Law Firm clerks explain the OCI (On Campus Interview) process and how it can help you find a rewarding career path. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the last several years, there have been a wave of anti-LGBTQ laws passed across the country and ACLU is tracking 547 new bills in the 2024 legislative session. Robbie Kaplan and Brandon Trice describe their success challenging one of those laws, Florida’s “don’t say gay law.” In this wide-ranging conversation, we touch on the rising attacks on the LGBTQ community, the future of marriage equality, and the effect of the Supreme Court’s presidential immunity decision on the E.Jean Carroll defamation judgement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Countless historians have debated whether abolitionist John Brown was, as President Lincoln put it, a “misguided fanatic,” or, in the words of Malcolm X, “the only white man worthy of joining his Organization for Afro-American Unity.” Rather than categorize John Brown or define his place in history, our goal with this episode is to examine his trial from a lawyer’s perspective, allowing you to understand how he became such a controversial figure. LINKS: Sign up for our newsletter so that you’re the first to know when new episodes drop! Listen to J. Craig Williams’ other podcast, Lawyer 2 Lawyer. Tell us what you’re looking forward to the most for this show on LinkedIn, Facebook, X or Instagram! Purchase the e-book. SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VOICE ACTORS: Troy Starr as John Brown Doug Bryson as Court Reporter John Doe as John Allstadt Evan Dicharry as Albert Grist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last month, President Biden announced that he would be dropping out of the 2024 presidential race, and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidential nomination. The momentum shifted, creating an entirely new battlefield in the race for the presidency against former President Trump and his Vice President candidate, JD Vance. Inflation. The economy. Women’s reproductive rights. Immigration. Education. These are just some of the policy & legal issues that we have covered over the years here on Lawyer 2Lawyer and will surely be on the minds of voters as they cast their ballot for president on November 5th, 2024. In this episode, Craig is joined by Dr. Casey Burgat, an assistant professor and the director of the Legislative Affairs program at George Washington University's Graduate School of Political Management, as they discuss the upcoming presidential election, the candidates, policy issues important to voters, and what we can expect on Election Day and beyond. Mentioned in this episode: We Hold These “Truths” Book Mastering the Room Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Too many law firms aren’t great at being productive, and downfalls in efficiency are often traced to attorneys using the wrong software, or none at all. Jared outlines six productivity-boosting software tools all lawyers should have in their toolkit. Later, what’s going to happen to your law firm if something happens to you? Don’t wait until late in your career to establish your succession plan. Start early and communicate well to make a plan that protects your legacy and those you care about. Jared welcomes Ivy Slater to learn the ins and outs of succession planning. And, last but not least, what past Olympic event involved two opponents whacking each other with canes? It’s that time of the quadrennial again—so “The Shitty Olympics” returns to the Rump Roast! Jared describes a variety of absurd former competitions, and Ivy must guess the events. Ivy Slater is CEO of Slater Success, a consulting and coaching company focused on sustainable growth and leadership development for high level service-based businesses. 6 Under-The-Radar Software Tools Project Management Notion Taskade Trello Asana Basecamp AI Notetaker Zoom AI Companion Fireflies AI Fathom Otter AI Features in Your Existing Software Duet AI for Google Workspace Copilot for Microsoft Teams Passive Timekeeping Apps Clockify Toggl Chrometa WiseTime Memtime (formerly TimeBro) Expense Tracking Expensify Automated Client Communications: Hona Case Status ----- If these software tools aren't enough to give your productivity a boost, try listening to this playlist. ------ Our opening song is Two Cigarettes by Major Label Interest. Our closing song is In Your Head by Reveille. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guy Miles was wrongfully convicted after being misidentified by an eyewitness during a robbery investigation in Orange County, California. Although he had once been involved in gangs during his youth, he left that life behind and moved to Nevada for a fresh start. Unfortunately, his past followed him when his photo was included in a “six-pack lineup.” An eyewitness mistakenly identified him as one of the perpetrators, which ultimately led to a life sentence. It would take a random speeding ticket, admissions from the true criminals, DNA evidence, a recanting investigator, 18 years in prison, and a “Dark Plea” deal to finally set him free. Tune in to hear this harrowing real-life account of wrongful incarceration from the man who lived through it. ----- 00:00 Introduction 01:42 Guy Miles Sets the Scene 05:16 Why Police Use a Photo Lineup 07:27 The Trial 09:53 His Family's Response 11:15 Finding an Innocence Group 12:18 Meeting the Real Perpetrator in Prison 13:17 Six Alibis Testified 14:32 The Speeding Ticket That Should've Changed Everything 16:25 "The California 12" 17:33 The Court of Appeal 19:22 From Rejection to Rejection to Plea Deal 25:14 Guy's Release from Prison 28:48 Life After Prison Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stories are powerful—not just in the courtroom, but in business, with your team, and your life. And, yet, telling a great story is hard! Stephanie chats with Kate Tellers, senior director and a host of the Peabody Award winning Moth Radio Hour and co-author of How To Tell a Story, about bringing our stories to life. Links from the episode: The Moth If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Milbank is leading the associate compensation charge -- again -- with summer bonuses. The associate there must be thrilled... Unlike DLA Piper's associates. That firm changed course on office attendance and it's going over like a lead balloon. Elon Musk also changed course, because when he told advertisers to go F themselves he really meant, "if you don't do what I want you to do I'll sue you." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The LSAT is facing competition from the JD-Next exam, and many states are reconsidering their licensing methods as the bar exam as we’ve known it sunsets in 2028. Kellye Testy, the executive director and CEO of the Association of American Law Schools, talks with the ABA Journal’s Julianne Hill about why those changes are happening now and what it means for law schools and students. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary R. Russell shares her inspiring path from growing up on a Missouri farm to leading the highest court in the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, writer and lawyer Kevin McGoff discusses the complexities and best practices surrounding law firm exits. Drawing from his extensive legal career, Kevin emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, understanding personal strengths and weaknesses, and seeking professional advice when contemplating a career change. The conversation also delves into the ethical considerations and strategic planning necessary for both leaving the legal field and starting a new firm. Kevin McGoff is the author of Find Your Landing Zone – Life Beyond the Bar, published in 2023. He is a writer, speaker, and lawyer. Kevin is also an avid cyclist and inveterate traveler. During his career, Kevin worked for a state agency, ran a solo practice, and started a law firm. Later he served as General Counsel to a large midwest firm. Kevin developed a successful program to complement his book designed to motivate lawyers and other professionals to progress from thinking about what’s next in life to creating a personal plan to make it happen. Kevin gives listeners actionable tips on: 00:00 Intro 06:49 Understanding Your Strengths and Interests 09:53 Taking the Leap: Transitioning Careers 13:16 Starting Your Own Law Firm: Financial Planning 17:45 Ethical Considerations and Client Relations 22:56 Setting Up a New Firm: Practical Advice 31:05 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts 36:38 One Thing That Works Resources mentioned in this episode: From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks Connect with Kevin here: Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Facebook https://surlaroutekm.com/ Connect with me Instagram Pinterest Facebook Twitter Karin on Twitter Karin on LinkedIn Conroy Creative Counsel on Facebook https://conroycreativecounsel.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table: Adding a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) program for your law firm? Hear the struggles one small firm is facing as it looks to automate CRM duties. Start with knowing what you need, how you’ll keep up with clients and follow up on leads. Software is just a tool. Without a plan, it’s useless. Start with a “sequence of contact” (and no BS). “Misfiring” when you hire a new associate can be a headache (and expensive). How do you make sure it’s a good fit before you hire, instead of learning you made a mistake later? Treat recruiting as marketing. Start with a clear message. Know what you want and tell people. Are you offering discounts? Here’s the thing: people don’t always want discounts; they want value. A good deal isn’t about money, it’s about service. Give clients more, don’t charge less. Make them feel special. (Do you know what a lagniappe is?) Mentioned in This Episode: Constant Contact Hubspot Zoho CRM Keap Clio Grow Lawmatics “Origin and Meaning of the Word Lagniappe” Join the next Community Table live. What’s on your mind? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Experts discuss the findings from a new survey on Americans’ knowledge of civil legal issues on Talk Justice. The recent survey of more than 2,000 Americans was conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of LSC. It revealed widespread misconceptions about civil legal rights, and that many people do not reach out for help with their civil legal problems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has Google finally been dethroned? Greg Sterling of Near Media joins Gyi and Conrad to hash out the DOJ’s ruling on Google’s search monopoly. ----- So, is the government going to break Google up? Greg begins by explaining the nuances of what actually makes a monopoly illegal and whether Google has acted in opposition to the law. Later, the guys discuss the spectrum of remedies that could come into play in Google’s future and whether new competition will be able to break through in the search space. For more on Greg’s perspective, read his article: Google Loses, AI Ankle Biters, GBP Menu Optimization. Gyi and Conrad also ask Greg to give his take on critical things lawyers should do to be easily discoverable by prospective clients and reduce their dependence on Google. The News: Google has an illegal monopoly on search, US judge finds Mentioned in this Episode: nearmedia.co localdialogue.com Interested in attending Auto Crash Litigation 2024? Check out the 360 Advocacy LHLM Discount. The Bite - Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter! Leave Us an Apple Review Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on YouTube Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Legal Report from Robert Half, host Jamy Sullivan (executive director, legal, Robert Half) and guest Chad Volkert (global head of legal consulting, Protiviti) delve into the latest insights from The Demand for Skilled Talent report by Robert Half as well as Protiviti’s Top Risks Survey. They discuss the role of contract professionals, the impact of AI on the workforce and strategies for retaining top talent in a competitive market. Tune in as they explore these trends and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is AI coming for your job as an attorney? Ben Schorr of Microsoft has the short answer—no! But, AI can come alongside you to help you do your work even better. Molly Ranns and JoAnn Hathaway talk with Ben about ways lawyers can implement Microsoft Copilot in legal practice. From first drafts of documents, to brainstorming, to research help, and more, Copilot has much to offer in the daily lives of legal professionals. Ben also outlines common mistakes lawyers make when employing AI tools and explains how to effectively and ethically integrate Copilot into your practice. Ben M. Schorr is a Senior Content Developer at Microsoft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The all-too-common deterioration of internet platforms seems to lead users through a bait and switch that leaves them with little more than a bunch of crap. Why do platforms tend to start off with appealing, engaging features that eventually disappear? Dennis and Tom talk about a recently coined term, which, for the purposes of this podcast, they call “encrappification”, and what, if anything, can be done to stop it. Later, the guys discuss the pros and cons of employing general use AI platforms versus legal-specific AI tools. As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Show Notes - Kennedy-Mighell Report #371 A Segment: Entering the Era of En****tification B Segment: ChatGPT asks us a question Parting Shots: Google Translate - Camera Option Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.translate&hl=en_US&pli=1 iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-translate/id414706506 How AI Got Me Back Into Creative Hobbies (Dibakar Ghosh) - https://www.howtogeek.com/how-ai-got-me-back-into-creative-hobbies/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Berkeley Research Group (BRG) is a Premier Sponsor of the ABA Litigation Section. On this Litigation Radio episode, we will hear from Jeffrey Klenk, Managing Director of BRG, about hiring economists as experts. The selection of the BRG as the subject of this interview should not be construed as an endorsement by the American Bar Association of BRG and its services. ----- More than 10,000 federal class action cases were filed last year, covering a range of areas including securities, antitrust, employment, and consumer protection. What do they have in common? They often rely on an economist’s expert analysis and testimony. So how early should you hire an economist to pick through the data? Guest Jeffrey Klenk, a managing director with the consultant firm Berkeley Research Group (BRG), shares best practices for working with an economist expert witness. Hear how an economist can help litigators, judges, and juries understand what matters in a case by dissecting transaction-level data, valuations, and the impact of outside influences you may not have considered. Here’s a spoiler: Klenk says it can be “fiendishly difficult” to not only understand the merits of a case but also the viability as a class action for both the defense and plaintiffs. From analyzing a case’s potential before filing, to focusing depositions, and to courtroom testimony, an economist can be a litigator’s most valuable tool. When economists and attorneys work together, good things can happen. Plus, a “quick tip” from Latosha M. Ellis of the firm Hunton Andrews Kurth on professional civility. You don’t have to agree with, or even like, everyone. But remember, what goes around comes around. Resources: “Goldman Sachs Settles 2014 Class Action Lawsuit Tied To Metal Trades” “Court Rejects Antitrust Suit In Victory For Comcast” Berkeley Research Group (BRG) “United States - Economist's Perspective (2023/2024): Class Actions – Litigation, Policy and Latest Developments” by Noureen Akber, Jeffrey Klenk, and Mike McDonald 2024 Professional Success Summit, American Bar Association “About Section 337,” United States International Trade Commission American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Sara as she chats with law firm owner Carol Bertsch and new partner Brennen Boze about their leadership transition journey. They share the ups and downs of passing the torch, the emotional challenges, and the balance between honoring a legacy and embracing innovation. Whether you're a seasoned firm owner or an emerging leader, their story offers invaluable lessons on navigating ownership transition and ensuring your practice's continued success. Additionally, Zack talks with Natalia, from POSH about the importance of integrations and seamless communication with your virtual reception team. Links from the episode: Mention Lawyerist at Posh to get a free 2 week trial! If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking Supreme Court term limits (they're good!), bar exams (they're bad!), and a law professor's conception of free speech (it's ugly!). ----- The bar exam is officially past, now we wait to learn passed. This year's examination included dehydrating applicants and examinees missing out on their family's Olympic success. While bar exam changes are coming -- and law students can get paid to help -- at the end of the day it's a giant boondoggle pushed by people who've never even taken the test. With Supreme Court term limits on the table, let's talk a bit about how those work. And Jonathan Turley offers a disturbing look into his bizarro view of free speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Simon Law Firm’s clerks discuss what to expect in your clerkship, overcoming the fear of failure and tips on being a good clerk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Award-winning author and historian Lawrence Goldstone explains why what the Constitution does not say - was intentional - so that democracy can evolve. According to Goldstone, author of "Imperfect Union: How Errors of Omission Threaten Constitutional Democracy", changing the Supreme Court, protecting voting rights, defining the Second Amendment, and maintaining the balance of power between state and federal government are intended to be the responsibilities of voters, not the government or the courts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On July 25, 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order directing state officials to start removing homeless encampments across the state. This follows last month’s SCOTUS ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, where the high court ruled that they will allow cities to enforce bans on sleeping outside in public spaces. According to a 2023 homelessness assessment report to Congress from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, California has the largest homeless population in the nation with more than 180,000 people out on the streets. In this episode, Craig is joined by returning guest Gary Blasi, Professor of Law Emeritus at the UCLA School of Law, as they discuss Governor Newsom's executive order for removal of homeless encampments in California. Craig & Gary discuss the order, the recent SCOTUS decision in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, and the potential impact this could have on the homeless community. Mentioned in this episode: Governor Newsom’s Executive Order on Encampments City of Grants Pass v. Johnson Scotus Ruling The Legal Issues Surrounding Homelessness with Gary Blasi & Breanne Schuster on Lawyer2Lawyer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine being in prison for decades. You’ve been fighting your appeal for many years. Your lawyer believes you’ll get a new trial but there is no guarantee that you’ll win your freedom. Suddenly, the prosecution offers a plea deal. You can go free but there’s a catch... You have to admit you’re guilty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Zack as he chats with Lawyerist Lab Coach and podcast co-host Sara Muender about starting and running a thriving law firm. They explore how defining personal and firm values can shape a law firm's vision. Sara highlights the importance of separating personal identity from the business to make decisions that benefit the firm, and shares tips on staying motivated when you’re feeling overwhelmed. They also discuss balancing the roles of firm owner and working attorney. Tune in for motivation, guidance, and expert advice from a seasoned attorney business coach. This episode is sponsored by Timesolv. Prior to the interview, Zack and practice management guru, Joyce Brafford, talk artificial intelligence and how firms should prepare their offices to use all the new fancy tools. Hint: it involves solidifying your processes. Links from the episode: Request your free trial from TimeSolv! If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawyers long considered the legendary Clarence Darrow to be an attorney to emulate, but closer examination of his career shows a condemnable pattern of unethical tactics and empty courtroom arguments. To debunk the popular culture myths surrounding Darrow, Rocky Dhir welcomes author and attorney Mike Farris to discuss the facts in his book, Blowhard: Windbaggery and the Wretched Ethics of Clarence Darrow. Mike shares details from his research that uncover evidence of jury bribing, intimidating witnesses, and other unprincipled conduct throughout Darrow’s career in a time where ethics rules failed to hold him accountable. Mike Farris is a writer and retired entertainment attorney in Dallas, Texas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should we pay associates more and partners less? That's what this client thinks. Nikki Haley is threatening legal action against her supporters. Top notch politicking! Panel thinks that, maybe, a NY judge who threatened to shoot teenagers shouldn't stay on the job. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest Debbie Foster is the CEO at Affinity Consulting, delivering custom business strategies for legal teams. With her years of experience helping law firms modernize, she explains how to overcome internal roadblocks to modernizing. How do you recognize, and overcome, bottlenecks? It comes down to how people, often unintentionally, keep firms from using the best available new tech. It can be anyone from top leadership to support staff. But by understanding the reluctance, you can win them over. The world of legal tech offers myriad solutions. True they cost money, but that should never hold a firm back if there’s ROI on the other side. Modernizing a firm’s tech can advance a firm, create efficiencies, and push the firm ahead. But fear of the unknown, and not understanding an investment’s potential, even if that’s coming from a single person, can hold everyone else back. Hear how “absolute clarity” and a laser focus on what your firm needs can clear those roadblocks by helping you explain exactly what solutions you need and how new tech will meet them. Fear and uncertainty are the enemy. Start with defining a problem, then educate everyone on how a solution will solve it and how you will support the adoption process. Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at [email protected] Topics: Today’s legal tech is getting better, and faster, and more efficient. But sometimes a “this is how we’ve always done it” from a single person – anyone from a managing partner to a bookkeeper – can block upgrades. Don’t let one person hold back an entire firm. Hear how it all starts with identifying a problem and helping your “human roadblocks” overcome their concerns and get onboard. Fear of the unknown is real. Fear of looking “dumb” in the face of a tech upgrade is real. Fear of overspending is real. Empathize. Educate. Elevate. Help those resisters feel empowered and excited. Mentioned in This Episode: Ben Schorr, LinkedIn Microsoft Designer Microsoft Bookings “Legal 3.Oh!” podcast archives Affinity Consulting “Pardon the Interruption: 2023 Edition,” Kennedy-Mighell Report “Prioritizing Progress: Building a Roadmap for 2024, with Debbie Foster,” Lawyerist Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Streamline, clarify and de-clutter your exhibit list by incorporating our top tips for preparing and presenting exhibits for depo and trial. We’ll discuss proper procedure on how to mark, submit and enter exhibits correctly and share an easy acronym to help you remember the important steps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s look at two recent Supreme Court cases impacting the role and powers of federal regulators. After decades of accepted areas of law that deferred to federal regulators, we are witnessing a shakeup through rulings on the so-called Chevron Deference and the Corner Post decision. How will these landmark rulings change the power held by agencies? The modern regulatory state of the federal governments evolved after the Great Depression during the New Deal to tighten lax oversight blamed for many elements that led to the Depression. As new agencies were created, regulators came to enforce developing legislation, such as the Securities Exchange Act and labor rules. Seventy plus years later, we have our alphabet soup of federal agencies. Expect a slew of new challenges and litigation to follow. “It is impossible to overstate what a complete wreck this is going to make of everything,” says guest and associate professor of administrative law Gwendolyn Savitz, calling the effect of the rulings “calamitous.” How can legislators put the toothpaste back in the tube? “Chevron’s a big deal, it’s reversal’s a big deal,” adds guest and regulatory law veteran Paul Weiland. If you’re involved in regulatory law, you can’t miss this episode. Resources: “Reassessing Administrative Finality: The Importance of New Evidence and Changed Circumstances,” by Gwendolyn Savitz Administrative Procedures Act, Cornell Law School “Loper Bright, Skidmore, and the Gravitational Pull of Past Agency Interpretations,” Yale Journal of Regulation Chevron U.S.A. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, via Justia Corner Post, Inc. v. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, SCOTUSblog Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, SCOTUSblog Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, NOAA “The Supreme Court Ends Chevron Deference – What Now?” NRDC American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Qualified Member Attorney Al Goldberger discusses legal implications when an athlete is denied participating in a game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Aurora Winter joins me to talk about the importance of appealing to the 'croc brain' to grab attention, using social proof for validation, and delivering messages concisely. Aurora explains the significance of storytelling, particularly the hero's journey structure, for making messages memorable and engaging. She discusses common pitfalls in communication, provides practical templates for enhancing engagement, and highlights the profound impact of effective storytelling. The episode also touches on the value of making reviews and testimonials compelling. Aurora challenges listeners to focus on improving their communication skills by being mindful of their words and structuring their messages strategically. Aurora Winter, MBA, is a successful entrepreneur, bestselling author, TV writer-producer, and the founder of www.SamePagePublishing.com. Her award-winning books include "Turn Words Into Wealth" and “Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse.” Using her expertise in film and neuroscience, she helps people tell memorable stories that build brands, books, and businesses. Aurora gives listeners actionable tips on: 00:00 Intro 02:38 Common Communication Mistakes 05:45 Understanding the Croc Brain 08:37 The Power of Social Proof 12:15 Crafting Effective Messages 14:27 The Hero's Journey in Storytelling 21:01 Connecting with Empathy, Translating Neuroscience into Effective Messaging 23:48 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 26:48 Crafting Memorable Reviews and Testimonials 31:02 Book Recommendation 32:41 One thing that works Resources mentioned in this episode: Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham Connect with Aurora here: Instagram Twitter LinkedIn https://www.aurorawinter.com/ Connect with me Instagram Pinterest Facebook Twitter Karin on Twitter Karin on LinkedIn Conroy Creative Counsel on Facebook https://conroycreativecounsel.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Jackie Schafer started learning about AI in 2020, she had an intuitive feeling that it was going to bring big changes to the legal profession. Since then, she has worked with AI to improve legal writing technology for greater efficiency and accuracy. Dennis and Tom talk with Jackie about her perspectives on broader legal technology, competency, collaboration, and more. She also gives insights into her experience founding Clearbrief and offers tips on how to integrate the latest technology into legal practice for both beginners and seasoned tech users. As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Jacqueline Schafer is the founder and CEO of Clearbrief, an AI-powered legal writing tool. Show Notes - Kennedy-Mighell Report #370 A Segment: Fresh Voices - Jackie Schafer Clearbrief.ai - https://clearbrief.com B Segment: More with Jackie Schafer Parting Shots: Airalo - https://www.airalo.com/ Claude 3.5 - https://www.anthropic.com/news/claude-3-5-sonnet ChatGPT 4.0 - https://chatgpt.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest Nancy Maurice shares her unique background as she followed her curiosity and leaned on her courage to explore several countries throughout her education—ultimately landing a position as an associate with a New York-area law firm. Maurice is a native of France, where she learned English while growing up. She crossed the English Channel and earned her first law degree in England, a LL.B. Next, Maurice returned to Paris to obtain more degrees in law. Afterward, she moved to Louisiana, where she enrolled at Louisiana State University to obtain her LL.M. Maurice takes all her knowledge, skills, and legal expertise to assist clients in New York City. Maurice learned law in a second language, crossed an ocean, and settled in the United States as a foreign resident. She navigated a foreign culture, including the legal culture, found her fit, and proved she could get the job done. Maurice learned that nothing is out of reach if you pursue your goals and take chances. Hear how she accepted every challenge, gave presentations and webinars, learned to speak confidently in public, and proved herself, even when others told her something was impossible. RESOURCES: “Things Left Unsaid: Implicit Obligations Under Louisiana Law in Star Financial Services, Inc. V. Cardtronics USA, Inc.,” by Nancy MauriceAmerican Bar Association American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division How Foreign-Trained Attorneys Can Become Attorneys in the United States Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A law firm’s marketing efforts are never-ending! That, coupled with the fact that algorithms and tools seem to also always be changing can leave lawyers with a marketing headache. In this episode, Stephanie chats with the host of the popular podcast, Lunch Hour Legal Marketing, Gyi Tsakalakis about the latest things to know in law firm marketing. Links from the episode: Check out NetDocuments Listen to the Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Podcast If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices