Achievement in our profession is based on something simple: Know the law, and know how to apply it. And don't BS a client - always tell them the truth, no matter how difficult or challenging that may be.

I'm basically a trial lawyer, but I don't try to be everything to everyone. After all these years, you can't be.

I'm not an advocate of an 'easy' divorce process. Did you try everything to keep the marriage together? By all means possible, stay together, I'll say. Some people have described me as an undertaker, however, I'll only bury "dead" marriages.

The truth is, by the time they come to us, most intelligent people have taken every step, have made every effort. If any one of the basic functions of a marriage dies, so does the marriage. The husband and the wife are the basic organs, and if either one fails to function in its given role, then the body shuts down.

The attorney's role has changed over the years. The days of having a killer lawyer - a Rambo by your side - are long gone. A good lawyer properly advises and advocates for the client, and guides the process along. There are lawyers who will 'milk the cow," and stubbornly impede a settlement - and run up their own fees. You won't get that from me or any member of my firm.

The fact is, a matter should not be settled by men in black robes. Ninety percent of the cases can and should be settled between the parties involved, with the assistance of good, professional attorneys.

I've enjoyed every minute of the practice of law - I feel very fortunate because the law has been very good to me.