I have always viewed trial work as a way to give back to the people who need it most - and need access to our justice system. The way we work - on a contingency fee - is a part of that tradition. Most of our clients could not take advantage of our services, and in fact many would have trouble getting their day in court.

Our right to a jury trial is a linchpin of our democracy, and the effort to limit and discredit the jury system has been broad and sustained. Big business, insurance companies and other interests are suggesting that you and I are somehow not competent to make the sensible remedies that juries offer each day. Our juries are more than capable. And in my 20 years as a trial lawyer, I can count one hand the number of times that a jury didn't do the right thing, based on the law and the facts of the case.

The reforms being rammed through New Jersey's and other legislatures across the country are not only bad for the profession - but bad for the consumer. What we really are, at the end of the day, are consumers' advocates. We've seen consumers' rights - in auto insurance, just for starters -- get trampled in New Jersey. And it's painful to see.

That said, the trial bar should not be in the business of creating areas of litigation for itself. It's inappropriate for attorneys to advertise new kinds of claims, or advertise themselves as guaranteeing anything. In fact, my best and only advertising are the clients who walk out my door at the end of a case.

I think my strongest skill is being able to believe in my clients' cases, and present them effectively to a jury. If I don't believe in them, the jury certainly won't. In any case, juries need to see a crystal clear theory of liability. The key is to cut through the BS. The message can't be abstract; it must clear and concise.

Sometimes potential clients will come and ask me what their case "is worth." And frankly, I will never answer that question; some irresponsible attorneys try to put a price tag on a case. But I never will.

I love the law, and I take pride in a well prepared and well presented case. And I know that translates into results for my clients.