Brian M. Schwartz
Divorce Law - Summit, NJ

I've seen very bright and intelligent people get thrown off by the divorce process. For example, there are clients who are willing to spend $20 to keep their ex-spouse from getting $5. So a lot of what I do is to try to help people keep their eye on the big picture, on what's in their long-term benefit. I want to assist people in getting through a rough time in their lives, often by helping them understand that, although there is a great deal of emotion involved, this is really a business transaction.

I care about my clients, but I'm not necessarily looking to make them my best friends. I'm their advocate. I've tried a lot of cases, certainly a large number for an attorney my age. I'm not easily intimidated by others, no matter how long they have been practicing. Some might say that I have a certain cockiness; I would disagree. I do, however, have a great deal of confidence in myself, my ability as a trial attorney, and my knowledge of the law. I think that preparation is the most important part of what I do - I'm someone who's ready to take advantage of the unprepared adversary.

Every case is factually different and every case has a different range of emotions, which can create its own unique brand of craziness. But generally I enjoy Family Law. This area of the law, however, can still be humbling - the outcome in any court proceeding (whether a motion or a trial) is impossible to predict. You may prevail on 99 of 100 points in a case - but your client can still get upset that you lost on point number 100.

One of my goals in every case is to set reasonable expectations for a client. When clients see me for the first time, I'll explain the process and possible outcomes based upon the initial facts as they are presented to me. Clients may "shop around" for other attorneys - and I encourage potential clients to meet with other attorneys - but, in the end, the law all of us cite should be the same. I receive a number of referrals from lawyers, court personnel, former clients and friends; but some of my best cases come from adversaries (both lawyers and clients) who've sat across the table from me. That's very gratifying.

Brian M. Schwartz
"...some of my best cases come from adversaries (both lawyers and clients) who've sat across the table from me. That's very gratifying."
Phone: (908) 219-4219
Fax: (908) 219-4561
 
 
Education
The George Washington University, BA, 1990
University of Pittsburgh School of Law, JD, 1993

COMPILED OCTOBER 2004
UPDATED JULY 2011
 
2024-01-23 10:14:18