One thing you get to know about me right away: My honest and forthright nature. I grew up in a small town in Wisconsin -- a world away from Long Island. But to me the practice of law, in any location, is all about integrity and reputation. I believe we as matrimonial practitioners are charged with an important responsibility to help guide our clients through perhaps the most emotional and trying period in their lives. All too often attorneys provide their clients with unreasonable and unrealistic expectations which unfortunately lead to unnecessary delay and expense in the litigation process.
I hear a lot of horror stories about bad client/lawyer relationships, but I certainly don't experience them. It's very easy for a lawyer to take advantage of people, by telling them what they want to hear, rather than what is likely to happen. It's very simple. People appreciate honesty. So why should they expect any less from their attorney. I pride myself in always being straightforward with my clients and my adversaries alike.
It was referrals that really got me started. Clients referred friends, and it went on from there. I've been fortunate. However it is evident that my practice continues to thrive based largely on my growing reputation as a skilled and fearless litigator. Some of my friends needle me and say I don't want to settle cases, but that's not true. I make no bones about the fact that I zealously defend the rights of clients. They deserve no less. While most cases do settle, I'm always ready to protect the interests of my clients.
I've seen major changes in the level of knowledge people have about the law since beginning the practice of law. Clients are much better informed today. Part of that is access to computers, technology and the Internet. Of course with the advance in technology, many legal issues have also become more complex.
It may have been my many years of amateur and professional boxing that prepared me best for this business. You can't be successful in either profession without perseverance and preparation. After people have met with me, I hope people will walk out of my office convinced of this: That I am a knowledgeable and straight shooting practitioner who pulls no punches.
