One of the first things clients learn about me is that I am not one of those lawyers who "yeses" them. I'm fairly straightforward and direct. It's just not in my nature to encourage unrealistic expectations in my clients.

And I always tell my clients that the worst thing they can do - usually - is to put themselves and their case in front of a judge. Judges, even the wisest judges, simply don't have the time to micromanage every aspect of a case - and can't be expected to do that. The courts are always busy, and the pressure to "move things along" is always there. So it's important for clients to understand the strategic value of an intelligent, thoroughly prepared resolution - one that's assisted by the people and advisors around you. Yes, I litigate issues for my clients all the time. But more often than not I'm struck by how frequently the best outcome is achieved by sensible people in a conference room.

I put a lot of emphasis on communication - I want my clients to know what's going on with the law as it applies to their case and the timeframe for resolution. Once upon a time, New York courts - sometimes even juries - would review "grounds for divorce" claims - but the law has changed and no-fault divorce is now a part of state law. The fact is the courts are no longer interested in doing a forensic review of a marriage. Much of the communication is with opposing counsel, and I want my clients to be aware of what's going on as we work toward a settlement..

There are more "dabblers" in divorce law today, too, lawyers who have little experience in the specialty and who are prone to making bold promises. I've been focused on our specialty for more than eighteen years now. As I get older, I see the value of a lawyer who is familiar with the matrimonial court system and who spends most, if not all, of their time in that system. My colleagues and others know that I try to stick to the facts without embellishment. They know I'm not prone to histrionics or flowery speeches.

I do find it very rewarding - even if it's sometimes a little exhausting. The fact is that the internet and technology in general have increased expectations of instant replies and knee-jerk action. But what hasn't changed is that the legal process is still deliberate, still careful and precise - nowadays people can get upset if an email is not responded to in 10 minutes.

I've developed a professional style and a writing style that's drawn from many of the people in our firm - now I can call it my own. We have seven lawyers, and we all practice family law. Ours is a stable practice with expectations of first-rate performance and results. We are certainly one of the top family-law firms in the region. I'm proud of that, and our clients appreciate it as well.