Legal Talk Network - Law News and Legal Topics

Guests from Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC) join Cat Moon to discuss creating the nation’s first Innovation Lab housed in a civil legal aid organization on the latest episode of LSC’s “Talk Justice” podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table: Our first question turned into a collaborative discussion around the Community Table with input from several other lawyers. How does a longtime attorney with her own firm finally shake things up, turn operations over to someone else, and focus on strategy and the practice of law? It’s hard to let go of control, even with a consultant pitching in. How do you market when money is tight, cash flow is low, and you need more dollars in the door? Start by knowing your practice. What’s the underlying issue, what kind of ship are you leading? From there you can spot opportunities and focus on revenue and marketing. Thinking of making a pivot or expanding from your current area of practice to boost revenue? Consider what you enjoy doing and think about what areas of the law generate consistent, timely cash flow. Mentioned in this Episode: Gino Wickman, “Traction” Michael Morse, “Fireproof” Previously on the Un-Billable Hour, guest Michael Morse, “Your Firm? You Can’t Do It All (And You Shouldn’t Try)” ABA Techshow SMB Team The Rainmaker Institute WealthCounsel estate planning software L. David Marquet, “Turn This Ship Around: A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders” L. David Marquet, video, guest “Texas Business Radio” Join the next Community Table live. What’s on your mind? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zack talks with Marc Cerniglia, founding partner of Spotlight Branding, about building a marketing plan that works for your office. They dig into the 4 steps you can take to make your plan more thoughtful, effective, and evergreen. Additionally, Marc shares some strategies on how you can track your ROI, and how many of the activities you already do can fit into your overall plan. Schedule a consultation with Spotlight Branding: https://confirm.spotlightbranding.com/website-booking/ Check out their marketing plan template: https://spotlightbranding.com/lawyeristmarketingplan Check out their free resources: https://spotlightbranding.com/insider/ About Spotlight Branding: Spotlight Branding is content marketing for law firms that helps lawyers create content that focuses on credibility and expertise to spotlight your firm and stand out from the crowd. Schedule a consultation: https://confirm.spotlightbranding.com/website-booking/ Check out their marketing plan template: https://spotlightbranding.com/lawyeristmarketingplan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Frank Mendoza joins me to talk about the next big thing in AI marketing. While this is a newer technology to the masses, it has in fact been around for a long time. We speak about current trends, how to leverage AI to help you, as well as pitfalls to avoid to ensure you’re remaining ethical. Frank Mendoza is a highly respected and award-winning analytics leader with over 20 years of experience in Strategy, Customer Experience and Data Science. He is the founder of Catalytics, a service company that helps Fortune 500 companies like Nike, Kelloggs, Keurig Dr Pepper, and Jim Beam to execute actionable AI and Data Analytics strategies to solve their toughest business challenges. Frank holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an Executive MBA from The University of Texas at Austin. Frank gives listeners actionable tips on: [1:10] When AI exploded into everyone's knowledge [3:50] Other AI technology other than ChatGPT [6:20] Differences between ChatGPT and Google Bard [9:50] Caution against copying and pasting straight from AI without editing [13:30] Predictions for how AI will continue to evolve [18:20] Are content consumers attracted to AI copywriting, and the impact to writing style [29:35] Frank’s book review [35:05] One big takeaway from this episode Resources mentioned in this episode: The Art of Thinking Like a Data Scientist by William Schmerzo Connect with Frank here: https://www.instagram.com/fx.mendoza https://twitter.com/DataDrivenMind https://www.facebook.com/fxmendoza https://www.linkedin.com/in/fxmendoza/ www.CatalyticsConsulting.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 of our Environmental Law series, host Craig Williams is joined by Alisha M. Winterswyk, an attorney from Best Best & Krieger, LLP, as they spotlight NEPA and CEQA, their impact, and purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited doubled-down on our Healthy Firm model. But what, exactly, is it? Join us for another stop on our podcast book tour. This week we’re diving into achieving and maintaining Healthy Profits. In this episode, Sara talks with Lawyerist Lab finance coach, accountant, and small business owner Bernadette L. Harris about making finances less scary, understanding healthy profits, and why owners need to prioritize paying themselves. She advises listeners on how to determine a business’s desired income, how to be intentional with financial data to understand the story that numbers can tell, and more. Links from the episode: 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! Thanks to Posh Virtual Receptionists, Postali & LawPay for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Integrations, integrations, integrations. You’ve probably heard about integrations for years, but lots of people still struggle to understand just how this stuff is going to change their workflows. Jared explains the whole concept, gives some of the first integrations you need to be using, and warns you away from some missteps. Next, Emil Ali stops by chat with Jared about the unique challenges and worrying trends in IP ethics. Oh, what’s that? You’re not an IP attorney? Well, you’d be surprised how many non-IP attorneys get hit with these very much not trivial penalties. Finally, the stars have aligned! Welcome to the era of Barbenheimer! Jared and Emil look back at past movie release days to debate other great film pairings that have paved the way for this “momentous” occasion. Emil Ali is a partner at McCabe & Ali, LLP. ----- Since it's Barbenheimer weekend, we've mixed some serious + silly songs together, in the spirit of the moment. (Though, I hear 'Barbie' is pretty deep, too.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alabama is just straight up defying the Supreme Court on election law... but when liberals propose the same thing all of a sudden it's a crisis for the rule of law. I see how that goes. Also a hard-working Biglaw staffer gets caught up in a political backlash to what seems like an honest misunderstanding. And law students have no freaking idea what they're in for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you missing a product liability claim ? Product liability cases can be complex, challenging, and sometimes hard to recognize. John, Tim and Erich discuss how to recognize and evaluate a product liability claim as well as how to overcome some of its most common challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Under what circumstances should you consider calling an adverse witness? Today’s discussion examines the risks involved and offers tips on how to be successful if adverse witness testimony is critical to your case. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a tough episode because this could be any of us. Guest Jason Ward is a retired, highly successful lawyer. But behind his growing firm, substance abuse took hold even as Ward maintained the veneer of health and professionalism. Ward put constant stress on himself that morphed into mental wellbeing and substance abuse issues. He came to realize his drinking was taking over, not just on vacations, but also at home. At its peak, substance abuse damaged both Ward’s family and professional relationships. When he quit drinking, he found his behavior had altered and he moved on to THC to cope. Ultimately, he was forced to take full control of his own mental health, retire from the culture of legal litigation, and seek professional help. Today, Ward is sober. His is a success story. This is a brutally honest discussion, but it’s one we need to have. As you devote yourself to your clients and practice, are you paying attention to your own health and habits? It’s easy to lose sight when you are focusing on your practice. The business of law can deliver its own form of PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder. Please be good to yourself. Help is available. Mentioned in this Episode: National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse Assistance, Government of Canada “Resolving Grave Disputes - The Law Of Dead Bodies In Ontario,” By Jason Ward Mental Health Awareness, American Bar Association Well-Being Programs, Canadian Bar Association American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Professor Julie Suk, author of After Misogyny: How the Law Fails Women and What to Do About It, discusses the legal and economic framework in the United States that fails to fairly recognize and value women's work. Unfortunately, the U.S. remains a leader in unequal pay, no pay, inadequate support for childcare, healthcare, and social services, and irregular parental leave policies and protections. Professor Julie Suk explains how other countries have enacted constitutional protections and inclusive lawmaking processes that result in more equitable outcomes for women that result in benefits to all members of society. Professor Suk challenges us to consider correcting deficiencies in our federal constitution that would enhance equality, improve the economy, and enrich our democracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Clay Vaughan joins me to discuss video content – how to create it, best practices, and how to maximize your ROI. Clay Vaughan is an entrepreneur and business growth strategist who believes in the power of service. He founded his first business, Good Agency (formerly Reverent Media), nearly 15 years ago to bring integrity to the marketing industry and support businesses in reaching their full potential. Launched as Reverent Media, Clay's vision was to create a company that serves its clients with honesty and transparency. Rebranding to Good Agency in 2023 reinforced that commitment, focusing on tailored marketing guidance and execution that genuinely benefits its clients. In 2022, Clay had a successful multi-million dollar exit from two of his content creation businesses, providing an opportunity to invest further in his family, team, and community. He considers his family to be his most important mission in life. Clay gives listeners actionable tips on: [3:00] How to begin with a video you really want to work online [4:00] Tips to clarify your message [5:30] Scripting videos and emphasizing on pre-production [6:45] Creating a pre-production process [8:20] Telling your story as an attorney vs. telling a story about client successes [10:20] Where lawyers go wrong with video [13:10] Presenting your cases as personal wins, instead of monetary wins [22:25] How to make video content convert [27:45] Video call to actions that work [30:40] Clay’s book review [34:10] One thing Clay knows that works [35:00] Should you create different video content for each platform? [37:35] One big takeaway from this episode Resources mentioned in this episode: Expert Ownership by David and Jason Benham Connect with Clay here: http://facebook.com/vaughanstrategies/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayvaughan/ http://www.goodagency.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

As stories of some CEOs' outrageous behaviors continue, the amount of activist shareholder activities keeps growing, say Kenneth Mantel and Megan Reda, partners at Olshan Frome Wolosky in New York. They represent investment funds, family offices and people trying to bring change at public companies—and maybe get a seat on the board. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What makes it so difficult for some lawyers to embrace technology? Fear, confusion, and that feeling that they just can’t ever catch up create a wall that many attorneys can’t seem to break down. Dennis and Tom bring on Amani Smathers, another “fresh voice,” to learn how she encourages technology adoption among legal professionals. She also covers the AI hype, her favorite collaboration tools, her unique niche in legal tech, and more! 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. Mentioned in this Episode: Power Automate’s Copilot Casetext’s CoCounsel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawyerist Lab member and estate planning lawyer Rachel Allums knows that the client experience isn’t “one size fits all.” In this episode, Rachel Allums talks with Zack about her deliberate and thoughtful approach to client experience. Learn how she creates a personalized experience for every client by considering their age, family dynamics, comfort with technology, and more. Rachel delves into how she integrates both digital tools and traditional methods for efficiency and offers valuable advice on creating educational videos, seeking mentorship, and navigating the path to a successful estate planning business. Links from the episode: 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! Thanks to Posh Virtual Receptionists, Postali & LawPay for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Copilot is your upcoming digital assistant in pretty much all the Microsoft applications you use day-to-day. So, what do you need to know about utilizing this technology in your legal practice? Sharon Nelson and Jim Calloway welcome Ben Schorr to discuss the many lawyer-specific Copilot possibilities, from meeting notes, to case summaries, email drafts, and more. They also discuss its current reliability, a privacy overview, and Ben’s top tips for getting the most out of Copilot in your Microsoft apps. Ben M. Schorr is a senior content designer at Microsoft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Steve Wood and Sean Murphy from Courtroom Sciences, Inc. address properly preparing corporate representative witnesses for crisis communications and deposition testimony. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For real though, don't mention your law school rank in your wedding vows. You may think it cute but literally no one else does. Clarence Thomas has been workin that lifetime tenure racket from the very beginning. And ,careful what you post on social media, unless, of course you just enjoy having to go through the same trial multiple times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can the attributes of a good trial attorney run in the family? Part Two of our Father’s Day discussion about practicing law with your Dad talks about the decision to follow your father’s footsteps and live up to the family reputation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jane M. Spinak did not set out to write a book arguing for the abolition of family court. She thought she would be making the case for a set of sensible reforms. But the more she dug into the history of the family court system, the previous attempts at reform, and the examples of real world harms the system had caused, the more she began to believe there was no saving it. In this episode of the Modern Law Library, Spinak speaks with the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles about her philosophical journey and the writing of her new book, The End of Family Court: How Abolishing the Court Brings Justice to Children and Families. Spinak walks Rawles through the origins of the family court system at the turn of the 20th century. The movement began with Northern and Midwestern progressives, usually white middle- and upper-class women, who felt there needed to be a way to make the children of recent immigrants into “real Americans.” They also believed, as Spinak does, that adult court was not a place for juvenile offenders. Over the next century, the purpose and purview of family courts expanded and changed. Today, family court judges may consider juvenile criminal offenses, status offenses, custody cases, adoption, the removal of children from their parents and truancy cases. What has remained constant is the uneven enforcement of child safety laws, which fall primarily on poor and minority families. “It is doubtless true that many children of the well-to-do are saved from coming before the courts because their families have greater resources and are often able to obtain special care for their children,” reads a report from the Children’s Bureau in the 1930s cited in The End of Family Court. “Whereas the children of the poor are more likely to be referred to courts or committed to institutions when they develop serious behavior problems.” In this episode, Spinak shares experiences from her four decades in the family law arena, discusses how the children and families impacted by family court are leading movements for change, and explains how family court jurisdictions could shrink as communities step up to support families. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can the attributes of a good trial attorney run in the family? Part Two of our Father’s Day discussion about practicing law with your Dad talks about the decision to follow your father’s footsteps and live up to the family reputation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barbenheimer is upon us, along with legal coaching mayhem, and a very gassy marketing campaign. ----- Law firm coaching has really, really, really taken off in the legal world, and Gyi and Conrad find themselves wondering why. And, is coaching truly beneficial to you in your legal practice? The guys hash out why today’s lawyers are seeking professional coaches at an ever-quickening pace, and whether this a good trend or (sometimes) a little sketchy. Later, the guys pick apart Michigan lawyer Sam Bernstein’s free gas marketing scheme. Does this tactic engage new clients for the law firm? Is community awareness really happening? Is it worth the price tag? Gyi and Conrad discuss. The News: The Fastcase 50 list is out, and Gyi and Conrad might have just blacklisted themselves after some pretty pathetic pandering. Threads might not be the Twitter-killer we thought — traffic has dropped by half after first week. Bar associations, take note! Nota has partnered with the Florida Bar to provide free IOLTA accounts for members. Mentioned in this Episode: Sam Bernstein’s Free Gas Marketing Campaign on YouTube And Its Very Aggressive PR: 7 Action News - Free Gas Giveaway Live in the D Planning a Road Trip? Leave Us an Apple Review Lunch Hour Legal Marketing now on YouTube Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marketing, acquiring new business, and growing your firm are all important. But ultimately, any law firm has to produce results to scale, and that comes down to who you hire and how you manage, develop, and collaborate with your team. Guest Luis Scott is the owner and managing partner of Bader | Scott Injury Lawyers. In addition to running a firm responsible for millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements, Scott devotes time to consulting with other firms to help them grow their own revenue. Based in Atlanta, Scott understands a competitive market for client acquisition, but also for employee acquisition. How do you find, hire, and retain the best team? Hear how Scott and his firm identified and hired employees, then turned the best into leaders, freeing senior partners to focus on strategy. The bigger a firm grows, the more important a strategic, mindful approach becomes. How big do you want to grow? Three million in revenue? Eight million? Bigger? Scott explains how he structures a firm and positions leaders and employees for success. Founders of any firm are only one person. After a threshold, there’s nothing more they can do by themselves. That’s where it’s vital to develop leaders who can oversee individual parts of the business, everything from litigation to HR to marketing. If you lead a law firm of any size, consider this episode your own, personal consulting session that will help you organize and focus your efforts on growing your revenue and expanding your reach. (Plus, you’ll learn “The Five Ps” of law firm management.) Mentioned in this Episode: Un-Billable Hour Community Table Figure Firm Consulting The Guts and Glory Show “The King of Growth,” by Luis Scott “It Has to Hurt,” by Luis Scott Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senior Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit David Tatel joins LSC President Ron Flagg to share his memories of the 1974 founding of the Legal Services Corporation, as well as his view on the roles of courts and lawyers in the advancement of access to justice on this episode of LSC's “Talk Justice.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jason Rutel joins me to discuss how you can build deeper trust and credibility through website design. Jason Rutel, a passionate storyteller and missions advocate, founded Creative Nomads in 2019 to help global missions organizations enhance donor engagement and retention through impactful communication. With a strong background in the church and Christian entertainment industry, Jason previously worked as a traveling production manager and media director for renowned comedian Michael Jr. His passion for missions has led him to collaborate with organizations in Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Nepal, Guatemala, the United Kingdom, and Papua New Guinea. Jason holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications, with a minor in Intercultural Studies, from Southwestern Assemblies of God in Waxahachie, Texas. As the driving force behind Creative Nomads, Jason leverages his expertise in web design, videography, and branding to empower mission-focused organizations to communicate their message and champion their cause effectively. Jason gives listeners actionable tips on: [4:15] Recommendations to get through sales conversations without feeling salesy [6:25] Where storytelling comes in on your website [9:15] Breaking down what goes on to a website homepage [13:35] How to get your visitor to move through your website in a trusting way [15:20] Tips to convey your expertise [16:40] Strategically using testimonials on your website [19:00] How to deal with negative reviews [20:45] Red flags that betray customer trust [28:50] How your navigation bar should look [34:05] Jason’s book review [36:25] One big takeaway from this episode Resources mentioned in this episode: Marketing Made Simple by Donald Miller Connect with Jason here: https://www.facebook.com/CreativeNomads/ https://www.instagram.com/thecreative.nomads/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/thecreativenomads/ https://creativenomads.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

As SCOTUS wrapped in leadup to its annual summer recess, three controversial rulings, all with a 6-3 vote, created quite the stir: Biden v. Nebraska, Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President & Fellows of Harvard College, and 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis. So what sort of impact will these rulings have on society? In this episode, host Craig Williams is joined by guest Professor Steven D. Schwinn from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, as they spotlight the recent SCOTUS rulings regarding loan relief, affirmative action, & the website designer/first amendment ruling. Craig and Steve discuss SCOTUS, these rulings, and long-term impact of these decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The episode you’ve been waiting for. An all-Mac special with real Mac experts. More and more lawyers are using Apple Mac tech, including iPones, iPads, and laptops. In the past, there were challenges shifting between Mac and Microsoft, but today’s practice management programs can work on both systems. You like Macs? Then go for it, there is less and less to hold you back. Why Mac over PC? Cost, battery life, integrations between iPhones, the Apple watch, and iPads, as well as security are considerations. Only 15% to 20% of lawyers use Macs, so you do need to think things through and ensure you can share information with your Microsoft colleagues and opposing counsel. There are advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you understand every aspect. There are some basics to getting started. Maybe most important is to not “cheap out” when you’re getting your computer system set up. Our guests explain what you need, including processor speed and memory. It all matters. Law is your business, your computer is your tool. If you’re investing anywhere, it’s here. RAM? ROM? Gigs? Ports? What do you need? Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at [email protected] Topics: Lawyers use Macs. Yes, it happens, and it can go well. Know what kind of needs you have and learn how to use your Mac to your advantage. Speed, cross-platform exchanges, and even weight matter. Programs abound for Mac lawyers. It’s not like the olden days when Microsoft programs only worked on Microsoft platforms. Adobe, Word, Excel all can work smoothly on a Mac. Mentioned in this Episode: Macs In Law Offices Jeff Richardson’s prior appearances on Legal Talk Network Brett Burney’s prior appearances on Legal Talk Network Mac Codeweavers Parallels USB hubs on Amazon Adobe subscriptions Textexpander Textexpanders for Lawyers Setapp for Mac Ulysses app for Mac Quick Look for Apple Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, delve into the crucial topic of active violence preparedness with Brink Fidler, owner and founder of Defend Systems, a prominent life safety and security consulting firm in Nashville, TN. Stephanie and Brink talk about why every firm owner should have open discussions and plan for frightening events, and how they can empower their team with knowledge and tools to respond effectively. They also address the relevance of active violence preparedness in office environments and how to adopt a “warrior mindset” when faced with danger. The emotional and traumatic aspects of active violence events are not overlooked, as Stephanie and Brink touch on the need for mental health support and proper coping mechanisms. Links from the episode: 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! Thanks to Posh Virtual Receptionists, Postali, & LawPay for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re getting started, or thinking about getting started, trying criminal trials, this episode is a gold mine. Learn from one of the most noted and experienced trial attorneys out there, guest Paul Mark Sandler, a longtime attorney, author, and lecturer. This is an opportunity to hear from one of the best. Lessons on ethics and insider courtroom tips. Learn about your relationship with the jury, the judge, and opposing counsel. How to question witnesses. How to prepare. You didn’t learn this in law school, but Sandler can cut the learning curve in just a half hour podcast. Hear what a criminal trial actually looks like, both in the courtroom and behind the scenes. You can learn this the hard way, or you can learn here from Sandler. If you want to be a great trial lawyer, you have to try cases. There’s no way around that. But you can avoid some basic mistakes. A trial is structured simply. But at each step, it’s all about the details. Hear three key tips for new trial attorneys. And what about hiring a jury consultant? (spoiler, yes, do. Sandler learned this from Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. You’ll want to hear this story.) Resources: American Bar Association American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division “The Art of Persuasion: Essays on Rhetoric in the Courtroom” by Paul Mark Sandler “Boot Camp Trial Training Programs Committee,” American College of Trial Lawyers Aristotle, “Rhetoric” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greetings from Day One of the NALA 2023 Conference and Expo! Host Jill Francisco joins NALA past president and experienced paralegal Cassandra Oliver-Divens and paralegal student and first-time conference attendee Joey Jones to share the experience. Learn why the annual NALA conference is a must for today’s paralegal professionals. From ethics classes to the latest technology and trends, you’ll hear how paralegal professionals learn from each other and network with organizations and firms across the country. Paralegals have such transferable skills, and the opportunities never fail to surprise. This year’s conference included classes on the newest developments in real estate law, social media evidence, Roe v. Wade, and more. Learning can be fun. NALA makes sure of it. Meet your CLE requirements in an engaging, supportive environment. Review, refresh, and recharge. Mentioned in this Episode: NALA 2023 Conference and Expo ABA Model Roles NALA student membership brochure NALA membership online Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know generative AI is making significant waves all over the world, but lawyers need to take a hard look at its implications in the law and their own legal practice. John Simek and Sharon Nelson welcome Doug Austin to discuss AI technologies and their impacts on attorneys. They cover notable legal cases, new ABA resolutions, the latest AI trends in legal practice, and much more. Doug Austin is an established eDiscovery thought leader with over 30 years of experience providing eDiscovery best practices, legal technology consulting, and technical project management services to numerous commercial and government clients. Mentioned in this Episode: Resolution 112 - American Bar Association Resolution 700 - American Bar Association Resolution 604 - American Bar Association The GPTJudge: Justice in a Generative AI World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Also more mandatory office policies and a brief primer on the Federal Circuit controversy. The Supreme Court's ethical lapses reached such heights that a fellow federal judge had to step in to publicly ask what's wrong with these people. And it's not just the big ticket scandals anymore, with the Court's reputation so tarnished that folks freak out over non-scandals (or at the most minor ones) like Venmogate and Sonia's Book Club. Meanwhile, more Biglaw firms opt for a 4-day mandatory office policy, though there's still not a lot of momentum behind the move. And Judge Pauline Newman of the Federal Circuit continues to fight against her colleagues for her right to continue to hear cases. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If given the opportunity, would you say yes to working with your Dad? In recognition of Father’s Day, father-daughter trial lawyer duos John Simon and Mary Simon, and Judge Jack Garvey and Colleen Garvey discuss the joys and frustrations of going to work every day with Dad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If given the opportunity, would you say yes to working with your Dad? In recognition of Father’s Day, father-daughter trial lawyer duos John Simon and Mary Simon, and Judge Jack Garvey and Colleen Garvey discuss the joys and frustrations of going to work every day with Dad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When technologically assisted review first started gaining traction in e-discovery in the 2010s, many of the same superlatives assigned to ChatGPT were used to describe this groundbreaking new process that purported to review documents faster and more accurately than humans. Lawyers would get hours and hours of time back, and clients would save tons of money. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 200 years of racial and ethnic struggle, including the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Era, and Black Lives Matter, where are we now in the effort to achieve the promise of a multi-racial democracy? Dr. Peniel Joseph helps us to understand this struggle and describes our current political environment in a historical context. He holds a joint professorship at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and the History Department in the College of Liberal Arts at The University of Texas at Austin. He is also the founding director of the LBJ School's Center for the Study of Race and Democracy and the Associate Dean for Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Dr. Joseph is the author of seven books, most recently The Third Reconstruction: America’s Struggle for Racial Justice in the 21st Century which won the 2023 Robert F. Kennedy Book Award. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ABA Litigation Section’s Women in Litigation Joint CLE Conference is coming to San Diego November 1-3. If you’ve never attended—you are missing out. The conference focuses on women litigators and judges and helps women develop relationships, find mentors, learn from others, and share experiences in a welcoming and insightful environment. You will find like-minded women and guidance, learn how to create valuable business relationships and friendships, hear how others have created their own brand, and learn to balance work and life. Guests Amy Stewart and Heather White are highly successful litigators who have made their own way as women and as attorneys. They’ve learned the value of authenticity, real friendships, asking for help when they need it, and offering a hand when it’s needed. Believe it or not, who you know is as important as what you know. Relationships and reputations are part of the practice of law—they drive your career forward. Also in this episode, guest M.C. Sungaila, one of the conference organizers, provides highlights from the conference and what you can look forward to! Mentioned in this Episode: ABA, Women In Litigation Joint CLE Conference ABA Corporate Counsel ABA DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk about the F-word in Workers’ Compensation: Fraud. Guest Connor Thomson is a second-year law student at Villanova University who won the College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers John F. Burton Jr. Law Student Writing Competition with his paper “Fight Fire With Fire: The Need For Carriers To Be Afforded More Duties And Privileges To Combat The Pandemic Of Workers’ Compensation Insurance Fraud.” He explores an interesting, challenging issue in Workers’ Comp: Are employees sometimes cheating the system? Workers’ Comp insurance fraud is a multibillion issue. Thomson takes a deep dive. The system does a lot of good, and employer fraud hurts workers. It happens. All fraud is wrong. But sometimes employees cheat, they collect a check for a workplace disability, but they work on the side, maybe under the table. That’s not a victimless crime either. It hurts us all, Thomson argues. Sure, employers do check on workers who file claims, including the use of private investigators. And that comes with its own issues. But Thomson says controlling insurance fraud may have its place. If carriers can’t investigate, does everyone suffer because of higher insurance costs? This is an intriguing issue. Mentioned in this Episode: Workers Comp Matters, “Dissecting Fraud” Connor Thomson “Fight Fire With Fire: The Need For Carriers To Be Afforded More Duties And Privileges To Combat The Pandemic Of Workers’ Compensation Insurance Fraud” College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers John F. Burton Jr. Student Writing Competition Coalition Against Insurance Fraud Coalition Against Insurance Fraud study and findings Insurance Journal articles on Workers’ Comp fraud Jesse Maxwell v. AIG Domestic Claims Frontline, “The Myth Of Workers’ Compensation Fraud” Workers Comp Matters, Legal Talk Network, archived episode, “The History of Workers’ Compensation With John F. Burton Jr.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tyler Pigott joins me to discuss how you can level up your website as a lawyer and law firm. From building IT and creative teams for a biotech startup to developing and launching a national beverage product, Tyler's background is in creating things that just work. As CEO of Lone Fir, his favorite task is to cheer on others — whether it’s his employees, fellow agency owners or clients. Tyler gives listeners actionable tips on: [2:50] Where to start when assessing a client's website [9:15] What to look for if you feel your website isn’t converting [15:!5] Predicting what your client wants [16:30] Remembering the size of your business and firm [18:50] Having clear call to actions on your website [22:40] Writing transitional calls to action [24:05] Benefits of a website redesign [29:10] Tyler’s book review [33:30] One big takeaway from this episode Resources mentioned in this episode: Who not How by Dan Sullivan Connect with Tyler here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerpigott/ https://www.lonefircreative.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

Despite Tom’s attempted prohibition of ChatGTP on this podcast, it’s weaseled its way in once again. The guys take a hard look at where ChatGPT is really at right now, discussing both its capabilities and its limitations as of yet. Dennis shares insights from the hundreds of experiments he’s tried with ChatGPT and explains where this tech still falls short in its results. They also discuss generative AI in the legal profession and whether its current uses are cause for concern or optimism. Later, are the guys officially calling it quits with Twitter? Dennis & Tom talk through the latest Twitter annoyances; new social media possibilities like Bluesky, Mastodon, and new-to-scene Threads; and where they think the future of these platforms is headed. 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. Mentioned in this Episode: Google Magic Eraser KMR Episode: Demand-Side Sales with Bob Moesta — How Quitting Selling Helps You Create a Better Client Experience Dennis’ Latest Articles: Legaltech Hub KMR Episode: Hypes and Lows: Breaking Down the Technology Hype Cycle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

State Bar President Cindy Tisdale and Texas Young Lawyers Association President Laura Pratt were sworn in at the annual meeting in Austin this June. Rocky Dhir sits down with both to discuss their plans for their presidencies in the coming year. Cindy shares her intention to study AI, focus on civility, and continue to develop more wellness tools for Texas attorneys. Laura discusses TYLA’s focus on public service, her plans to improve and update previous TYLA projects, and her developing website devoted to helping young people with everyday “adulting” topics. Cindy Tisdale is a board certified family law attorney and 2023-24 President of the State Bar of Texas. Laura Pratt is a commercial litigator at Sprouse Shrader Smith PLLC and 2023-24 President of TYLA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephanie and Joey Coleman, author of Never Lose an Employee Again: The Simple Path to Remarkable Retention, explore the crucial role the employee experience plays in creating a happy and engaged team. Learn the steps team leaders can take to create a place where everyone LOVES their job. They delve into the power of creating memorable experiences throughout the employee journey—starting with the hiring process and through an employee’s first 100 days, which plays a vital role in long-term commitment and loyalty. This episode is packed with lots of practical tips to give you ideas to start implementing immediately. Listen to the end to learn one easy thing you can do today to show your appreciation to your team. Links from the episode: Never Lose an Employee Again by Joey Coleman 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! Thanks to Posh Virtual Receptionists, Postali, & LawPay for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why would a law firm hire a PR agency? Well, if you’ve ever wished your firm was known for its expertise and thought leadership, a PR agency might be just the thing. Jared brings on Michelle Calcote King to talk through the lawyer/PR relationship and its potential for improving your credibility, furthering your reach, and growing your business. The rest of the show is a total Succession-fest. Jared’s monologue spoils the entire beginning, middle, and end of the series, so listeners beware. And, later on in the Rump Roast, Jared welcomes his own kids for dramatic readings of some favorite Succession quotes. Michelle Calcote King is principal and president of Reputation Ink. ----- We have fun on this show, but today it's all business - Succession style. ----- Our opening track is Two Cigarettes by Major Label Interest. Our Rump Roast song is Macbeth by JeesGuy. Our closing track is Lucky Day by SPARKZ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between threatening Facebook and suing Wachtell, the Chief Twit is pretty active. We also talk about the end of the Supreme Court Term and the struggles in bar prep. ------ Elon Musk is desperately seeking a win and if he can't get it in a cage match against Mark Zuckerberg, he'll try his hand in court. Spoiler: it's going to go just about as badly. He's sent a legal threat to Facebook that fails to articulate much in the way of a legal issue and now he's suing Wachtell for being the lawyers that forced him to buy the company in the first place. Meanwhile the Supreme Court Term ended in a blaze of gaslighting and a hail of disingenuous spin. And now law schools are facing legal threats if their student body looks diverse. Finally, bar prep is just a little bit more stressful for students prepping with Themis, which continues to suffer website problems in the critical weeks before the exam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk technology, eDiscovery, Chat GPT and how to make use of our time in a productive way. All of these tools are coming at us lightning fast – listen to our discussion with Joy Holley, John Simon and Erich Vieth on where to start the learning process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erica has “thunder tears.” Liz becomes “hot garbage.” We’ve all had days where life is a big hot mess. In this encore episode, Amy, Mary, Erica and Liz talk about how they re-center when everything goes sideways, and how to downplay the guilt that goes with it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“If you don’t have it in writing, you’re out of luck.” That’s the common wisdom you’ll hear from TV judges, helpful uncles, well-meaning friends and even lawyers in your life. But while getting an agreement in writing is a best practice, in some cases you—or your clients—might have more options than you think to enforce a unwritten agreement. While the foundational principle of the Statute of Frauds holds that contracts must be written and signed to be enforced, there is a tool to create an exception. This tool is laid out in detail by Paul Golden in his new book, Litigating Constructive Trusts: The Last Resort in Fighting Inquity and Inequity. Golden, who has extensive experience in real estate and trust and estate law, believes far too few attorneys are aware of the potential benefits of constructive trusts. In this episode of the Modern Law Library, Golden explains the concept of a constructive trust to the ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles. A constructive trust is a “legal fiction,” where (broadly speaking) a judge decides that between two parties with a relationship where trust could be assumed, there has been an egregious betrayal of that trust and an unjust enrichment to the betrayer. The judge can then retroactively declare that even without a written contract, a defendant had a fiduciary duty to the victim, and victim’s property must be returned to them. “Traitorous partners, gold-digging girlfriends, old ladies being tricked out of preparing a fair will, and plain old murder,” writes Golden in the book. “These have been, and will continue to be, the subjects of constructive trusts. The facts in some constructive trust cases are so outrageous, one often feels like a voyeur, but without the shame.” Golden explains the special benefits of a constructive trust, as well as defenses that can be made if your client is the subject of a constructive trust claim. Different jurisdictions have different standards for constructive trusts, and Golden and Rawles discuss the state of New York’s 4-prong test in detail. Most constructive trusts are based on case law, but some states do have civil code about them. Golden offers advice to lawyers looking to use a constructive trust argument, and lists common trial issues they might face, including how to convince a judge they have the power to act to avert a deep injustice from continuing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If normal SEO is austere classical music, social media algorithms are drunk jazz on a Saturday Night—you never know what’s coming next. The guys talk through how to play nice with The Algos and then share the next two picks for your marketing dream team. ----- Social media algorithms have more changes than a Thelonious Monk composition, which kinda sucks when you’re just trying to get your content promoted by these fickle, two-timing, nutty formulas. Gyi and Conrad give their take on whether you really need to fight the rhythm or just go with the flow while making content that people actually like. Good idea, right? We think so too. Later, it’s time for the guys’ next picks for your in-house marketing dream team. Conrad goes for the advertising machine—the statistics-loving, data-driven person who helps you make well-informed decisions for your business. Then Gyi goes with the perennially essential intake manager. Intake is everything, and lawyers need to understand why. Tune in for Gyi’s insights on what an intake manager can do for your team. The News: Threads, the Twitter killer, raced its way to 100M users. Google Business Profiles Drops Call Tracking Features and effectively gave Conrad the willies. Should you be freaked, too? If your LinkedIn reach massively changed, it’s because LinkedIn had a massive algorithm update. Mentioned in this Episode: CallRail LHLM Episode: How Much Time Should You Spend on Your Marketing? || Drafting Your Marketing Dream Team: Round 1 Leave Us an Apple Review Lunch Hour Legal Marketing now on YouTube Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legal leaders from Arkansas, Kentucky and Texas discuss how their organizations acquired opioid settlement funds and the impactful legal services they are providing to those affected by opioid use disorder on LSC's “Talk Justice” podcast. A 2019 report from LSC’s Opioid Task Force describes the need for civil legal services in response to the opioid epidemic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices