For me it's all about the chess match. In the courtroom it is about coming in prepared, and making the critical, timely moves for your client. It is maneuvering, and ultimately outmaneuvering your adversary. I love it, and I have from the first day I walked in a courtroom.

In any courtroom, many lawyers have tunnel vision. They focus on single points, and lose sight of the bigger picture and broader themes influencing the outcome of the case. Over the years I've learned to see all sides, to see all dimensions as the case unfolds. I've learned to assimilate volumes of material, and from that pull out the five or six pieces of a case that are important. From seeing all that - and seeing opposing counsel, even the judge's sentiments -- I make quick judgments. That's very difficult even for an experienced lawyer to do, but I'm very good at it, and I know all my clients benefit from that. You can attribute it to experience and instincts - I think it's a little bit of both. I know those skills help achieve real results for my clients.

My first conversation with any client really has nothing to do with me or what I've ever done before then. I'll answer any question a client may have. But, from the very start, it's all about the client. I sit down and be quiet, and simply ask: How can I help you?

The process is painful and often feels endless. But it's my responsibility to move things along. We always prepare for the possibility of going to court - quite simply, that preparation makes for better outcomes.

I've always been pretty hands-on with my cases, but over the years I think I've gotten to be a better delegator. It's allowed me to become an effective tactician in litigation, and the lead strategist in many complex cases we take on. I couldn't do that without having an incredibly gifted staff and team of lawyers.

People nowadays are certainly more informed about divorce and the process, but often too they are dangerously informed. The Internet has put a lot of information - and misinformation - into people's hands. Before the Internet, people would talk to a family member or friend. They'd get all kinds of advice, advice that usually wouldn't apply to the facts of their case. That's always been part of our job - to explain the law and to clarify the issues that apply to a specific case.

I never pictured myself doing what I'm doing today. But now I can't imagine doing anything else. It's very satisfying. I can say with confidence now that my skills really do make a difference for my clients.