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14 Aug 2018
Applying the Essentialist Mindset to Your Law Practice and Life [LGE 024]
00:24:23
We’re all trying to do too much. From having too many commitments, to too many activities, and too many work projects - we’re all doing way too much. As a result, we don’t do anything half as well as we could. It’s time to reduce and let go of certain tasks. But how do we make that decision? What needs to go? That’s what I answer in this episode.
I’m currently reading a wonderful book called Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown and it got me thinking about lawyers and how they operate their law practices. Specifically, how lawyers (especially sole practitioners) fill their plates a bit too much. There are many lessons that lawyers can take away from this book to begin eliminating the unnecessary “things” from their lives and focusing on what truly matters.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
When you try to do all the things, you end up doing them poorly
Begin by evaluating your practice area(s). How many are you covering? Are you spreading yourself thin when it comes to the areas of law that you practice
Try focusing on a practice area that 1) is niched down and 2) makes up the majority of your client work
Why the fear of missing out on work by niching down is an unsupported fear
From an administrative and law practice management perspective, being a solo makes it difficult to juggle all of the tasks you must get through. All the more reason to either hire help or reduce the amount of tasks
What ethical concerns exist when you’re trying to make every aspect of your business and law practice run on your own
How essentialism can help with lawyer burn out by forcing you to ask, “How does this all fit together?”
My Twitter: @zaviehlaw – How do you see the essentialism ideas applying to your life and law practice
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
21 Dec 2020
Responding to Chapter 6 Notices: California Bar Exam [LGE 133]
00:20:05
Thousands of California online bar exam takers were flagged for review, and an untold number of them have received Chapter 6 notices. A Chapter 6 notice essentially accuses the applicant of cheating on the exam. Megan has put together resources to help applicants respond.
Resources Mentioned: Dropbox folder I put together with resources
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
24 Mar 2020
How to Start Your Solo Practice and Scale it at the Right Time with Davis Nguyen [LGE 105]
00:38:43
Are you interested in learning how to start your own solo practice? Your driving fear may be "I'm not going to have any clients." When a lawyer sets out on their own, the fear of having no clients is real. "If you build it, they will come," does not necessarily work in law practice. But Davis Nguyen has some ideas on what three things every law practice needs to bring in those initial clients. Then, once your solo firm is growing at a healthy pace, at some point your workload will exceed your capacity as a solo. Davis shares with us strategies for scaling once that point is reached.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
16 Jun 2020
How to Take a Mental Health Day [LGE 117]
00:22:28
Mental health is tough to tend to, especially as solo and small firm lawyers make a ton of excuses why we cannot be out for even one day. So how do we take a day off that leaves us actually inspired to go back to work and not more stressed than when we left the office? In this episode, Megan shares her story of a recent day off that shed light on some "how to" ideas for taking a mental health day. To read her full story of the day off, visit Attorney at Work for her upcoming article.
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
28 May 2019
Out-of-the-Box Mental Health Tips [LGE 062]
00:19:49
Lawyers are well-known for not paying enough attention to our mental health and ultimately getting ourselves in trouble as a result. But all the talk about taking care of ourselves can sometimes seem like noise and we don’t actually accomplish doing anything any better. How do we make self-care as routine as brushing our teeth?
In this episode, Megan offers up some suggestions beyond yoga and meditation.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
25 Feb 2020
Trust Accounting For Lawyers with a Trusted Bookkeeper with Annette Fadness [LGE 101]
00:30:53
Mistakes in handling funds entrusted to lawyers account for a large percentage of bar complaints and prosecutions. Most lawyers realize that mishandling their trust account can lead to big trouble, but many still struggle to do it right. At Clio Con 2019, bookkeeper to the solos and smalls of the country Annette Fadness sat down with Megan to talk about what can go wrong with trust accounting, how to avoid many common mistakes, and why professional help can be a really good idea.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
08 Dec 2020
Clio's Annual Legal Trends Report with George Psiharis [LGE 132]
00:28:13
George Psiharis joins Megan to talk about the Clio Legal Trends report for 2020, the ongoing release of new information, and how Covid has impacted this important project.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
27 Feb 2018
5 Areas Where Lawyers Make Ethical Mistakes (Without Even Knowing It!) With Erin Gerstenzang [LGE 002]
00:53:47
Show Notes
Is that contact form on your website compliant with the ethical rules? How should you handle negative online reviews by clients? The ethics rules can be complicated and often times, lawyers just don’t know that they’re violating them.
In this episode, I’m joined by Atlanta criminal defense attorney and legal ethics enthusiast, Erin Gerstenzang. We are talking about five specific areas that can be danger zones for solos and small firms when it comes to the ethics rules.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Can you rely on marketing experts when they’re not familiar with the ethical rules?
How can you use Contact Forms on your website appropriately, especially if your marketing company is tracking submitted data
What is the level of competency the ABA requires regarding use of technology
When it comes to negative online reviews, how and when should you respond?
How can you best use positive online reviews?
What can lawyers learn from Disney when it comes to customer service
Can you talk freely about your client’s case with other lawyers, such as on listserves?
Why so many of the current ethical rules need to be rewritten to reflect the current reality of the practice of law
When it comes to cybersecurity, are lawyers doing what they need to do to make sure email communications are secure?
What can you start doing today to create more secure passwords
Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
04 Dec 2018
Wrapping Up the End of the Year in a Powerful Way [LGE 039]
00:18:07
As 2018 comes to a close, I thought it would be fun and useful to discuss some things you can be doing right now to end the year on a high note and best prepare yourself and your law practice for the new year.
Some things to do at the end of the year:
Review your state’s ethics rules
Check your local major bar association's opinions or articles regarding new state ethics rules and proposed opinions
Pay attention to even the smallest of changes in the ethics rules because they could have a profound effect when put into practice
Audit your law practice’s weaknesses because those might be ethical problems
Ask yourself what you want 2019 to look like? Set your goals for the year, and don’t forget to dream big!
Remember to reflect on the year that was and celebrate your wins
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
03 Dec 2019
What Can I Do With a Law Degree? with Nicole Abboud [LGE 089]
00:22:26
Nicole Abboud, known to audiences as the host of the Gen Y Lawyer Podcast, has launched a varied career since graduating from law school. Speaker, podcast host, video personality, blogger, media producer, motivational guru, there are many titles Megan would give her. At Clio Con 2019, Nicole sat down with Megan to talk about her own career and what lawyers who find themselves not loving the practice of law might do with their legal training.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
18 Jun 2019
Four Seasons Customer Service for Lawyers with John Strohmeyer [LGE 065]
00:40:44
Lawyers are terrible at customer service. Many bar complaints could be prevented with far better client service. We have all experienced amazing service at other businesses -- five star restaurants or hotels, local businesses that deeply care about the customer, and others. Today's guest John Strohmeyer -- estate planning and international tax lawyer -- shares with listeners his experiences at the Four Seasons and how they can apply to lawyers.
John and Megan talk about:
- John's experience at the Four Seasons
- Lawyers' failings in taking care of clients
- How lawyers can learn about hiring and service by studying the Four Seasons model
- How John is teaching lawyers to do better
- A great story of a missed wake-up call, a chartered plane, and a raving Four Seasons fan
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
12 Feb 2019
IOLTA Accounts: Best Practices and Chief Discipline Concerns [LGE 048]
00:34:55
On today’s episode, we will discuss Trust Accounts, Interest on Lawyers Trust Accounts (IOLTA). We are is finding there are a lot of questions about IOLTAs, and that there are many attorneys that could benefit from best practices for them. Join us today as we discover what you should know about IOLTA’s and some safeguards to help deal with the banking industry.
Show Highlights:
What an IOLTA is and a distinction on them
Best practices for IOLTA’s:
1. First off read your rules for all states you are practicing
2. Make sure you are the only signatory on your trust account
3. Make sure you are reconciling your trust account monthly
4. Keep the records that your bar wants you to keep
5. Your trust account should be at a different bank than the rest of your accounts
6. Make sure you are withdrawing regularly
Misappropriation and what it means with your trust account
Commingling and what it means with your trust account
Violations with trust accounts and consequences
Start with your bar for resources if you are feeling overwhelmed
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
26 Nov 2019
Catching up With Mark Britton at Clio Con 2019 [LGE 088]
00:16:06
Megan and Mark Britton sat down at Clio Cloud Conference 2019 to talk about the future of law, legal regulatory changes, what Mark has been up to since leaving Avvo, and what is next for Mark.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
05 Feb 2019
Set Your Client Relationship Up For Success By Re-evaluating Your Fee Agreements [LGE 47]
00:32:09
We’ve all heard tales of the horror stories from attorney-client relationships that have gone horribly wrong. Regardless of who is right and who is wrong, both parties suffer when this happens. With a few simple guidelines and a few hours of your time, you can implement a process that will help you and your clients have a successful relationship!
Today’s topic will focus on how a couple hours each year, you should reevaluate your fee agreements, which are also known as client engagement letters and retainer agreements. The fee agreement is fundamental to establishing the relationship. Listen today and discover how this document can get your attorney-client relationship started the right way!
What We Discuss in this Episode:
Why a fee agreement is so important and is a foundational document
What a fee agreement is for
Key points on client engagement letters:
1. Identify who the client is, as it is a critical question
2. What have you agreed to do for them, the scope of the engagement written very clearly
3. Terms of payment are clear
4. What should happen if you disagree with a client – Fee Arbitrations, Dispute resolutions, and mediation clause
Mediation between the parties that can help with communication
Strongly suggest starting with sample agreements put out by your state
Other important clauses, like the Cooperation clause
Document retention policy – and two things:
1. How long a client can expect you to have a copy of everything
2. What’s going to happen with the original documents
Modes of communication
Social media release and if it can be in the fee agreement
Feedback and reviews in the fee agreement
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
13 Nov 2018
Weeding the Client Garden and Avoiding Unnecessary Headaches [LGE 037]
00:37:36
For many lawyers, making the decision to take on a new client doesn’t require much thought. After all, all paying clients are great clients, right? Not necessarily.
There are a number of reasons why you should want to be selective when weeding through leads and potential new clients. In this episode, I share stories and insight on how to spot trouble clients from a mile away and what to do to best protect yourself against possible future bar complaints.
What I Cover in This Episode:
No client is ever worth committing an ethical violation over
How to handle a client who refuses to follow your advice
How to best manage client expectations in order to avoid future confusion
If a client doesn’t return your calls or respond to your emails, that’s not a good sign
Importance of setting your priorities and rejecting work if you’re too busy already
Who is the best type of client to fire?
Set your criteria as to the questions you’re going to ask to determine if a potential client is one you want to represent
What signs should you look for when you and the client are discussing fees prior to engagement?
How should you go about substituting yourself out of representing a client? When should you do it?
Why you must withdraw from representation if you find your client’s case is frivolous
If you discover your client has no cause of action(s), what should you do to ensure the statute of limitations doesn’t prohibit the client from seeking representation elsewhere?
What should your disengagement letter include?
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
17 Mar 2020
Saying No to a Potential Client: How to Ethically Turn Away Business [LGE 104]
00:31:42
Clients and lawyers should work well together. It makes for a smoother relationship, better work product, and better outcomes. It also reduces the risk of ethics violations and Bar complaints. As a lawyer, you must get comfortable with the idea that you will turn some clients away, and you must have systems in place to make sure you do so properly.
In this episode Megan discusses the reasons for turning clients away, how to do it (sometimes without even knowing you are), and what documentation to retain to protect yourself if a non-client later makes a complaint against you.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
12 Nov 2019
National Perspective on Regulatory Reform with Jayne Reardon [LGE 086]
00:22:55
At Clio Con 2019, Jayne Reardon of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism joined Megan to talk about the changing regulatory landscape in the legal profession. Nationally there are changes afoot in many states, and in this conversation they hit on the states leading reform efforts and discuss which reforms are most likely to succeed.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
11 Feb 2020
Disappearance of Rural Lawyers with Mark Palmer [LGE 099]
00:23:22
Mark Palmer, Chief Counsel in the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism (also known as 2Civility), sat down with Megan at Clio Con 2019 to talk about the disappearing rural lawyer. We know that there is a massive access to justice problem, but one aspect of this problem we do not hear so much about is the shortage of lawyers in rural areas of the country. There are large geographic expanses with zero or only a handful of lawyers. Mark and Megan talk about the problem and what is being done to address it.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
28 Apr 2020
Impending Judicial Logjam and How Lawyers, Courts, and A2J Will Be Impacted with John Grant [LGE 110]
00:57:39
Megan is joined by John Grant, who lends his systems background to lawyers looking to streamline their law practices with better processes and procedures. In this episode, he and Megan explore the impending massive backlog of cases in the justice system, what lawyers and courts will face when the country reopens after coronavirus, and what lawyers will need to do to prepare to serve clients in a post-COVID-19 world.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
23 Oct 2018
Ethics Issues in the Development of Innovative Legal Products with Erin Levine [LGE 034]
00:38:23
For many lawyers with innovative ideas for their practices, those ideas rarely get a chance to blossom because of certain restraints in the ethics rules, unfortunately. If you’re looking to implement new services or develop legal products and are unsure of what the ethics rules allow or disallow, you’ll truly enjoy this conversation. More importantly, you’ll learn how you can work through your fears of violating the ethics rules to cultivate your genius idea.
Joining me today is Erin Levine, a Certified Family Law Specialist and CEO of HelloDivorce, an online platform that empowers individuals contemplating divorce with step-by-step guidance and affordable access to lawyers.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Why is it that the ethics rules hinder our progress and innovation in the legal profession?
Lawyers might be risk-averse but that’s because we aren’t taught to take risks in law school and aren’t encouraged by the ethics rules to do so either
How the lack of outside funding and non-lawyer ownership affected Erin’s business’s ability to grow
Has the distinction between companies who offer legal services and those who don’t become meaningless?
Should lawyers have to look for loopholes in the ethics rules in order to develop their intended products/services?
The impact of the inability to accept investment funds
Why you should pay attention to the user experience and customer service as a lawyer
What can we learn from the legal systems of other countries when it comes to outside investment in legal companies?
Are there any changes to the ethics rules on the horizon that might allow for outside investment funding?
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
21 Apr 2020
Crisis Marketing During COVID-19 with Ollie Lash [LGE 109]
00:36:58
Let's talk marketing -- the usual and the highly unusual in a time of worldwide crisis. Ollie Lash-Williams has a background in public relations, and he joins Megan to discuss the enormous worldwide crisis of the day, coronavirus.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
23 Jun 2020
Burning Questions on IOLTAs [LGE 118]
00:16:29
We've been scouring the internet to figure out what lawyers are asking about, and it turns out IOLTAs are a hot topic. In this episode, Megan answers some burning questions about IOLTAs, including:
Can a firm have an IOLTA?
Can a lawyer have more than one IOLTA?
Can an IOLTA be used to send and receive wires?
How does an attorney handle a check made out to their IOLTA and the client jointly?
She also answers our first listener audio question about reviews and donating to charity.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
27 Oct 2020
3 Things Young Lawyers Should Know about Ethics & Careers [LGE 130]
00:11:51
Professor Cat Moon teaches a fantastic class at Vanderbilt Law School called Law as a Business. Megan was honored to be one of the guest speakers recently, and she focused part of her talk on the question, "What should young lawyers know about ethics and a successful career?" This episode answers that question with three specific things Megan thinks are important.
1. Appreciate the importance of the rules 2. Don't assume those above you know more than you do about the ethics rules 3. Just because everyone else is doing it does not mean it is ok
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
30 Apr 2019
Getting Paid Ethically [LGE 058]
00:23:40
A struggle for all law practices is getting paid. Even when you think you have a clear fee agreement, without effective communication and ease of payment, you may well find yourself with mounting receivables.
Today Megan Zavieh shares tactics to help you avoid those “I’ll pay you when’s…” and how to maintain a stress-free relationship with your clients. To learn more about making payments easy for your clients, tune into this episode of Lawyers Gone Ethical.
Show Highlights:
Collecting receivables as a solo lawyer
Making it easy for your clients to pay you
Basics about credit cards for lawyers
Using automated reminders for billing
Requiring upfront payments
Creating a buffer to ensure you get paid
Executing clear communication with the client to protect both parties
Having a written contract & what to include
Making sure your fees can be justified
Keeping detailed records of your work and time
Addressing non-payment early in the relationship
Thank you for listening!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
The Problem with How Lawyers Approach the Client Experience (and How to Fix It) with Jess Birken [LGE 046]
00:36:43
With increased competition from other lawyers as well as legal companies, the legal client nowadays has a lot of choices when it comes to hiring legal help. That’s why it is crucial for lawyers to recognize the importance of crafting a positive client experience that motivates the potential client to want to work with you (as opposed to just “have to” work with you).
Joining me on the show today is Jess Birken. Through her innovative subscription services, Jess serves non-profit and art organizations in Minneapolis. She previously appeared on Episode 14 and Episode 38.
What We Discuss in this Episode:
How do you make your clients want to call you as opposed to have to call you?
How Jess is building her subscription services
Why the client experience has become of utmost importance
How the definition of “luxury” in restaurants evolved and what we can learn from that service industry
My husband’s unfortunate experience with Starbucks
Should you be concerned with what your client is experiencing with every interaction with you?
Jess’s experience with a car dealership that exemplifies customer loyalty
How do you map your customer's journey?
Thinking about your customer journey is one thing. Taking action and implementing change is another
Don’t get overwhelmed if you’re just starting out. A small step at a time is the way to go
The importance of asking your clients for feedback
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
29 May 2018
How to Ethically and Effectively Use the Media and Engage the Court of Public Opinion with Wayne Pollock [LGE 016]
01:00:58
There are many instances when a lawyer might want to turn to the press and media to engage them in a way that helps their existing clients. While there are certainly numerous marketing benefits to engaging the press, there’s also a huge opportunity to offer unique legal services to clients in addition to litigation. We’re exploring how to be more media-savvy for the benefit of our clients in this episode.
I'm joined by Wayne Pollock, Founder and Managing Attorney at Copo Strategies, a national legal services and communications firm helping attorneys and clients ethically, strategically, and proactively engage the court of public opinion.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Why many lawyers might think their cases are too "small" for the media to even care (but why that's a huge mistake)
What two tracks lawyers should think about with regards to engaging the media
Despite a judge's or jury’s ability to “block out” press coverage of a case, it’s human nature to be impacted by what is read and heard. That alone is sufficient to want to engage the press and take the opportunity to shape the case prior to entering the court
A Pennsylvania attorney who released confidential taped conversations to the press and the ramifications of his actions
What lawyers should know about ABA Rule 1.6 and Rule 3.6 when speaking with the press
Rule 3.6(b) and (c) are safe harbors that delineate what lawyers are allowed to discuss with the media
How lawyers can use the media as a defense mechanism on behalf of your client?
How long it takes for a statement that taints a client’s case to dissipate from a juror’s mind
What about statements that are only allowed to be made inside of court but not outside? How do lawyers deal with those?
Attorneys can be liable for defamation if previously-filed copies of complaints are provided to reporters
Why it’s important for lawyers to work with PR companies who are familiar with ethical rules
The three categories of benefits for lawyers who utilize the media
When does privilege apply to PR firms and why is it important to know?
Wayne’s free guide for lawyers to help them avoid common mistakes when they speak to reporters: www.mediamistakeslawyersmake.com
Thank you for listening!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
21 May 2019
Lawyer-Scientist and Specialized Skills in Law Practice with Lisa Gonzalez [LGE 061]
00:35:15
Being a lawyer is a complex and strenuous profession and throwing forensics into the equation creates an entirely new concept to master. Lawyer-Scientist is a new title and only 69 people in the US currently hold that designation, and Lisa Gonzalez is one of them.
Lisa specifically has a focus on forensics within the practice of criminal law and is a member of the American Chemical Association. Lisa has incorporated her specialized knowledge of science into her law practice. In this episode, she shares her outlook on the procedures being used to integrate science and law and how she believes other lawyers can raise the bar by advocating for the profession. For more about what the Lawyer-Scientist profession entails tune into this episode of Lawyers Gone Ethical.
Show Highlights:
What led Lisa to become a Lawyer-Scientist
Specific classes necessary to become a Lawyer-Scientist
Different techniques and skills that Lawyer-Scientists study
How practicing criminal defense has impacted Lisa’s approach to her current position
Creating protocols and procedures to verify processes and procedures
Learning how to decipher legitimate evidence and asking the right questions about it.
Setting standards within Lawyer Science
The issues with meshing criminal justice and science
Identifying whether a case is standard or requires additional science applications
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
Super Powered Admins for Lawyers with Lori Gonzalez [LGE095]
00:25:27
Lori Gonzalez, founder of Rayna Corp., knows more than a thing or two about supporting lawyers. Her business’s purpose is to bring admin superpowers to law firms around the country. At Clio Con 2019, Lori spoke about utilizing administrative superpowers to make your practice better. In this episode, she visited with Megan to talk about her presentation and what a super powered admin can do for any solo or small firm lawyer.
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
19 Feb 2019
Self-Representation: When It Works and When It Doesn't [LGE 049]
00:27:53
On Today’s episode, we will discuss representing yourself, and how it can be the only feasible option for some lawyers. Our host Megan does not think self-representation is such a terrible idea. Tune in today and hear why it can be a good idea to represent yourself.
Show Highlights:
Everyone’s experience representing themselves is different
The balance between personal life and work
Why it is not always such a terrible idea to represent yourself
Things you still need to do when you are representing yourself
Your own case needs to be treated with the importance that it deserves
If you get to a point when you are defending yourself and you feel you are out of your area, always call in help and get what you need
You learn a lot about yourself, strengths and weaknesses
Attorney discipline and the criteria that is important to represent yourself
Attorney’s capabilities and how they help you or not
You need to be rational, responsible and realistic when evaluating the entire case
When you cannot represent yourself
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
11 Dec 2018
Emerging Opportunities in the Cannabis Law Industry and Related Ethics with Jason Beahm [LGE 040]
00:34:48
Although it is relatively new, the cannabis industry is already seeing a boom in startups and businesses looking to capitalize on this new-found legalization (in certain states). With this growth comes a wave of lawyers looking to build name recognition in this niche practice area.
In order to grow a successful cannabis law practice, it’s important to understand the legal and ethical issues associated with practicing cannabis law. Joining me to share his experience and insight as a cannabis lawyer is Jason Beahm. Jason is a criminal defense attorney with several offices across California.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
What is cannabis law and how can you, as a lawyer, break into that practice area?
How to deal with the stigma associated with working in this industry?
What affect have recent changes in cannabis law had on other sectors like finance?
Should lawyers be able to advise clients on violations of law?
How can lawyers walk the fine line between state and federal law if there is disharmony between the two?
When advising clients, what should you know about accounting and investing?
What does the future hold for this industry?
Will special events organizers be able to apply for permits to allow cannabis on the premises?
How past marijuana convictions will be handled moving forward?
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
13 Oct 2020
Breaking Screen Addiction For Mental Health [LGE 129]
00:30:32
Screen addiction impacts most of us, and there's little doubt it has a negative impact. Overuse of screens leads to anxiety, depression, decreased productivity, and more. Its impact is also clear in children. It turns out, it's not entirely our fault that we are so hooked. Apps accessed on screens give us dopamine hits that keep us coming back for more. In this episode, Megan talks about how we get hooked on screens and strategizes what we can do about it. She also shares her recent experience of pulling the plug on the kids cold turkey.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
28 Aug 2018
How to Delegate Effectively with Lori Gonzalez [LGE 026]
00:48:51
You’re a busy lawyer and some days make you wish you could multiply yourself. Well, until that day comes, you must learn to delegate. But where should you begin? What factors are important when it comes to delegation, and what are the potential challenges and benefits of delegation?
I’m joined by Lori Gonzalez is the President and Founder of the RayNa Corporation, outsourced administrative and back office support for lawyers. Lori and I discuss the reason why many lawyers find delegating tasks so difficult, and how to overcome these challenges to effectively delegate certain tasks.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
It’s true that no one else can do what you do, but you must realize what areas you bring the most value to
What are some of the barriers lawyers place between themselves and effectively delegating?
Readjusting the notion that perfection is required. It’s not!
Human error happens every day, all day long, and none of us are immune from that
Your system should allow for mistakes, it’s really setting up the process to find mistakes, not necessarily not making them
What danger do we face for hoarding tasks and not delegating?
What type of relief and freedom results from delegating?
Where to begin with delegation?
After you figure out what tasks should be delegated, you have to figure out what systems to put in place to do those well.
What tools are available?
The importance of establishing systems before you begin delegating
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
13 Mar 2018
How to Submit a Moral Character Application That Isn't Squeaky Clean [LGE 005]
00:23:31
The moral character application might seem like it’s only something law students need to worry about but if you’re a lawyer who’s looking to be admitted in other jurisdictions, then you’ll certainly want to pay attention. This is especially true if you happen to have a few blemishes in your past that you need to disclose in your application.
In this episode, I offer my tips on how to approach filling out the moral character application that isn't squeaky clean.
What I Cover in This Episode:
Should you disclose any past blemishes on your moral character application, even if they’re tiny incidents that happened a long time ago?
When you do disclose unfavorable incidents, what’s the best way to address them?
What types of incidents are considered dishonest and thus require disclosure?
Why honesty with the bar is far more important than your past indiscretions
What to do if you can’t fit your explanation on the actual application
Why finding respected professionals, like judges, other lawyers, even doctors and politicians, who are willing to speak to your character through letters of recommendation is important
How to decide whether an incident requires disclosure or not?
Submit your questions for future shows via Twitter @zaviehlaw or email megan@zaviehlaw.com
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs
01 Sep 2020
Building a Niche Law Practice with Lyndosha Jamison [LGE 126]
00:33:14
A niche, or narrow, law practice might sound risky, but it's actually a fantastic way to build a rewarding practice. Lyndosha Jamison has created a niche for herself that is exciting professionally and financially successful. Join Megan as she interviews Lyndosha to learn how.
Lyndosha Jamison and Megan presented at ABA TECHSHOW in Chicago in February 2020 on the topic of building a niche law practice. The session was so popular it spawned a repeat performance for the ABA's Best of Techshow series, and there is even an upcoming book in the works. Megan and Lyndosha talk in this episode about the practice Lyndosha built and niche practices generally, dispelling myths stoking the fear of specializing.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
06 Mar 2018
Ethics Rules In Need of 21st Century Makeover with Eric Cooperstein [LGE 004]
00:37:32
The legal profession is evolving and yet, so many of the ethics rules can’t seem to keep up. They are simply outdated and need a 21st century facelift. I’m joined by Eric Cooperstein, an ethics consultant and practitioner in Minneapolis, and we explore the relevance of several of the ABA Model Rules. We also offer our own insight on how these rules can be updated to reflect the realities of the legal profession today.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Why the rules need to be updated in order to spur innovation in the legal profession
How Rule 5.4 as it currently stands affects who lawyers can share profits with (even when it comes to their own paralegals)
What is Rule 5.4 designed to protect against? Is that still a relevant concern nowadays?
How other rules, like Rule 4.2 - communication with a represented person, and Rule 4.3 - dealing with an unrepresented person, contradict Rule 5.4
Why the belief that lawyers are improperly influenced by third parties is not based on any empirical data
How legal companies run by non-lawyers aren’t restricted like lawyers are so they’re able to innovate faster
Rules restricting practicing in multiple jurisdictions unless admitted to those bars - are they unrealistic in our current legal climate?
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
16 Oct 2018
Law Practice Lessons Learned on the Race Course (Live Keynote) [LGE 033]
00:43:02
Just like with obstacle course races, lawyers’ careers are long, tough, and full of unforeseen obstacles. In this replay of my recent keynote presentation for CEB’s The Basics conference in California, I share lessons learned on the race course that lawyers can apply to their own lives and careers.
What I Cover in This Keynote:
How I transitioned from BigLaw to solo practice because of a shift in my perspective and priorities
Why lawyers let fear (specifically the fear of violating the ethics rules) stop them from pursuing their dreams
You know a lot more than you realize so always fall back on your knowledge when you’re afraid
There are always alternatives to reaching your goal; don’t get caught up in obstacles
The importance of being ethical even when people aren’t looking
You can’t go though your legal career alone, just like with running a race course
Get used to being uncomfortable when asking others for help
The legal profession doesn’t have to be a nasty place; kindness can go a long way
When you’re fatigued with your cases, take a break
Age is not an obstacle so being “too young” or “too old” to learn something new should never be an excuse
It is so important to find your tribe!
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
03 Sep 2019
Small Firm Roadmap from Lawyerist with Stephanie Everett [LGE076]
00:37:53
Lawyerist is a community of forward-thinking lawyers, and its leadership team has written a book to help lawyers build their own small law firm of the future. In this episode, Megan sits down with co-author Stephanie Everett to talk about the book, why it was written, why change is coming to the legal profession, and how small firm lawyers can use the collective wisdom of Lawyerist to design their own firm that works for them, their clients, and their life.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
22 Sep 2020
Why Admissions Questions on Mental Health Matter to Us All [LGE 128]
00:32:54
We know the profession has a mental health crisis. We have serious concerns about bars asking applicants about their mental health. But do we really understand the position these questions can put an applicant in?
In this episode, Megan discusses and (in a first on this show) reads out loud the US District Court for the Western District of Kentucky's decision in Doe v. Supreme Court of Kentucky. Doe applied for licensure after seeking mental health treatment, and Kentucky "put her through the ringer", eventually admitting her 994 days after she applied. Then she sued for how she had been treated - and was dismissed from court, largely on standing grounds. This episode highlights why all lawyers should care about what is happening int he admissions process, and Megan urges everyone to get involved.
Resources Mentioned: Lawyers Gone Ethical with Jordan Couch on the Bar Exam
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
02 Oct 2018
When Your Conduct Outside the Practice of Law Affects Your Bar License [LGE 031]
00:19:45
Lawyers are charged with upholding the law and abiding by the ethics rules while we’re practicing as well as when “off the clock.” The ethics rules govern lawyer conduct anywhere and any time. So what conduct, behavior, and activities outside of the practice of law could potentially get you in trouble and affect your bar license? That’s what I delve into in this episode.
What I Discuss In this Episode:
What is one of the most significant activities you can engage in outside the law that will almost guarantee disbarment?
Is it just conduct that is criminal in nature that will affect your license?
What does ABA Model Rule 8.4 state and how does it apply in this scenario?
Are you still considered a “lawyer” when you’re engaging in behavior outside of work hours and on your personal time?
Keep in mind: a person who has been wronged can always file a bar complaint against a lawyer, either along with or in lieu of a civil complaint
The importance of showing integrity and honesty at all times, not just when practicing law
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
22 Feb 2018
Welcome and What To Do If You Receive a Bar Complaint [LGE 001]
00:23:19
In my first episode, I start off with a short introduction of who I am. I am an ethics attorney practicing primarily in California, and in short, I save lawyers' careers.
I also wanted to make my first episode useful and practical for you so I’m tackling a critical topic that I deal with frequently and that is: what should you do if you receive a bar complaint?
What You’ll Learn In This Episode:
Why the first thing to do when you receive a bar complaint is to not panic and just read the letter several times
Calendar the date by which you need to respond
Then analyze the underlying events and facts
How you can protect yourself against a complaint by a client without waiving attorney-client confidentiality (and when is it ok to break privilege?)
Where you can do some research to better understand the potential consequences
Should you respond on your own or seek help?
If you’re going to respond and defend yourself, what should you include in your response?
Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
18 Feb 2020
Dispelling Myths About the Attorney Discipline System [LGE 100]
00:17:03
We have made it to 100 episodes, which is so exciting! Megan is so grateful to her listeners, guests, and production team.
Many lawyers have misconceptions about the attorney discipline process. On this special episode, Megan dispels three big myths:
1. Attorneys can only suffer attorney discipline for lawyer conduct.
2. The attorney discipline process is fair.
3. The State Bar exists for lawyers.
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
03 Nov 2020
The Intersection of Ethics and the Business of Law [LGE 131]
00:09:53
Professor Cat Moon teaches a fantastic class at Vanderbilt Law School called Law as a Business. Megan was honored to be one of the guest speakers recently, and she focused part of her talk on the question, "What is the connection between ethics and the business of law?" This episode answers that question, focusing in large part on the consequences of making ethical errors and also touching on the good business of being ethical.
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
10 Apr 2018
Using Law Bots to Simplify, Automate, and Maximize Efficiency with Tom Martin [LGE 009]
00:34:04
Lawyers are catching on to the importance and value of integrating law bots into their practice, whether as chat bots on their websites or as client engagement and management tools. Founder and CEO of LawDroid, Tom Martin, joins us to discuss how bots can help automate and simplify internal law firm functions like research and external functions like client management.
LawDroid is a bot automation company with a mission to promote justice everywhere and dedicated to bringing the legal industry into the 21st century.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
What a chat bot is and what it can accomplish for a lawyer
Should lawyers worry that robots will take over their jobs?
How to use bots to stay in touch with current clients
The message and interaction logs that bots create and how they can help in malpractice suits
How bots can be used internally within a law firm to complete tasks like research to filling out documents
Where bots can’t replace human lawyers
The ethical considerations to keep in mind with bots
What type of disclaimers you must make when you’re using a bot
How bots can help you work ON your business and not IN your business
Tom is speaking at the GLSA/GP Solo conference– April 25-28th, 2018
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
07 Jan 2020
2020 Service Planning with John Strohmeyer [LGE 094]
00:21:11
It is quite clear that lawyers could use some work on client service. In our last episode, we talked about the Clio Legal Trends Report, which made that abundantly clear. In this episode, Megan sits down at Clio Con 2019 with John Strohmeyer to talk about how lawyers can plan to better serve clients in 2020.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
17 Sep 2019
Get the Most Out of Legal Conferences [LGE 078]
00:26:26
Wisely chosen, legal conferences can be great opportunities for solo and small firm lawyers. Megan's top tips for making the most of your time at a conference include:
- Have a goal going in
- Meet targeted people
- Be open to meeting many new people
- Visit the vendor hall (even if you hate it)
- Go to wellness events
- Go out to the social events
- Choose sessions carefully (and don't be afraid to leave)
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
08 Sep 2020
Slowing Down Incoming Business - Why and How [LGE 127]
00:15:44
A large number of ethics complaints begin with lawyers taking on more work than they can handle, leading them to miss deadlines, fail to be responsive to clients, and otherwise drop the ball. A booming business seems like a good thing, but too much of a good thing can cause severe problems. In this episode, Megan talks long-term solutions like hiring help, and short-term relief measures like pausing ad campaigns, reducing availability for new consultations, and learning to say no.
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
05 Jun 2018
California’s New Rules of Professional Conduct: What You Need to Know [LGE 017]
00:44:44
I’m diving into the changes that came about with the new revamp of the California Rules of Professional Conduct. Several years ago, the California Supreme Court convened a commission to work on bringing California's Rules into alignment with the ABA Model Rules. The Commission’s Rules were recently adopted by the Supreme Court and they go into affect later this year in 2018.
In this episode, I’m breaking down what California lawyers need to know about the changes and how they impact their law practices.
What I Explain In This Episode:
California still hasn’t adopted the Model Rules; they simply amended California’s existing rules
The way the rules are numbered have been completely revamped and they’re a bit confusing
California is finally aligned with best practices when it comes to advance fees and now require that lawyers deposit those fees in client trust accounts
What about sex with clients? When can a lawyer have sex with his/her client?
The new client communication rule (CA New Rule 1.4) requires lawyers to advise their clients and manage their expectations as they relate to a lawyer’s conduct and capabilities
What should a lawyer do when a client is engaging in conduct that is legal under California law but not legal under Federal law. This proposed Rule 1.2.1 was not adopted yet and is still up for discussion
The new conflict of interest rules (New Rule 1.7, replacing old Rule 3-310) require that lawyers look more globally at the client and the relationship to find any conflicts
New Rule 1.18 provides rules that apply to the attorney-client consultation and what confidentiality issues exist
How this old rule (CA old Rule 2-400) provided greater protection for a lawyer who was accused of discrimination. The new rules are stricter and in some regard, less fair, when it comes to these allegations
California Lawyers Association Solo and Small Firm Section
Webinar: CA Rules of Professional Conduct: What the 2018 Rule Updates Mean to You– June 7th, 2018 Presented by James Ham and Megan Zavieh
Thank you for listening!
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
11 Sep 2018
From Addiction and Disbarment to Law School Professorship with Kenneth Lawson [LGE 028]
01:16:46
Kenneth Lawson went from running a successful practice in Ohio to having his license revoked because of misconduct while addicted to prescription painkillers. He joins us to share his remarkable journey to redemption.
Ken Lawson is the Co-Director of the Hawai‘i Innocence Project and an Associate Faculty Specialist at the William S. Richardson Law School where he teaches Criminal Procedure, Criminal Law, Professional Responsibility, Evidence, and Hawai‘i Innocence Project.
What Kenneth Shares in This Episode:
His lack of self-esteem as a child, where that stemmed from, and how it affected his beliefs about himself
How he became the first African American lawyer at one of the largest firms in Cincinnati
Why fear of personal insecurity, failure, economic insecurity, and other fears held him back
What finally led him to leave his corporate position to open his own law practice
How he acquired Deion Sanders as a client
Despite being happier as a solo practitioner, Kenneth still felt like “something was missing”
His adoption and how he tracked down his biological mother
When he first realized he was addicted and how the addiction escalated
What led him to attend his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting
How he handled a public disbarment
Why going to prison might have been the wakeup call he needed
How he secured his current professor position with the University of Hawaii
The lesson he has learned about forgiving others and letting go of anger
Resources Mentioned:
If you're licensed as an attorney in California and need addiction help and services, here are several resources for you.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
30 Oct 2018
The Power of Building Your Network and How to Do It Effectively [LGE 035]
00:20:01
They say your “network is your net worth.” This is especially true in the legal profession. Surrounding yourself with the right people and building your network can prove to be crucial to your success and career longevity. It’s important, then, for lawyers to get outside of their offices and meet others. But what’s the best way to approach network building? I share my insight on how and why it’s important to meet new colleagues and surround yourself with the right people.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode:
Why it’s important to know your “competition”
Can networking help you meet other lawyers who can act as your “backup attorneys”?
Find people you can brainstorm and mastermind with about your business
Can you face a malpractice claim if you don’t competently handle a client matter? How can expanding your network help with this?
Where should you get started with building your network?
Bar associations, volunteer work, and conferences are great places to begin
How to set the social awkwardness aside
How to use online platforms like social media and forums to grow your network
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
04 Feb 2020
Importance of Law Firm Culture with Jordan Couch [LGE 098]
00:22:06
What is a law firm’s culture? It does not have to be any one thing, any stereotype, or inspired by a movie. Every firm has a culture, even if it has not been consciously identified and cultivated. In this episode, Megan talks with Jordan Couch at Clio Con 2019 about his role as Cultural Ambassador at Palace Law, what it means to have an intentional law firm culture, and how to bring your firm’s values to light.
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
28 Jul 2020
From Addiction and Disbarment to Law School Professorship with Kenneth Lawson [LGE 123]
01:17:14
Note: This is a replay of our most popular episode - Episode 28
Kenneth Lawson went from running a successful practice in Ohio to having his license revoked because of misconduct while addicted to prescription painkillers. He joins us to share his remarkable journey to redemption.
Ken Lawson is the Co-Director of the Hawai’i Innocence Project and an Associate Faculty Specialist at the William S. Richardson Law School where he teaches Criminal Procedure, Criminal Law, Professional Responsibility, Evidence, and Hawai’i Innocence Project.
What Kenneth Shares in This Episode:
His lack of self-esteem as a child, where that stemmed from, and how it affected his beliefs about himself
How he became the first African American lawyer at one of the largest firms in Cincinnati
Why fear of personal insecurity, failure, economic insecurity, and other fears held him back
What finally led him to leave his corporate position to open his own law practice
How he acquired Deion Sanders as a client
Despite being happier as a solo practitioner, Kenneth still felt like “something was missing”
His adoption and how he tracked down his biological mother
When he first realized he was addicted and how the addiction escalated
What led him to attend his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting
How he handled a public disbarment
Why going to prison might have been the wakeup call he needed
How he secured his current professor position with the University of Hawaii
The lesson he has learned about forgiving others and letting go of anger
Resources Mentioned:
If you’re licensed as an attorney in California and need addiction help and services, here are several resources for you.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
30 Jun 2020
Will Hiring an Ethics Lawyer Hurt Me? [LGE 119]
00:18:55
In two contexts, lawyers and bar applicants worry about hiring an ethics lawyer. In moral character applications, applicants are often concerned that having a lawyer involved makes it look like they are hiding something. In discipline matters, lawyers express concern that hiring counsel makes them look like they committed misconduct. In truth, having a lawyer's expertise far outweighs any image of guilt that may be created by hiring counsel. In this episode, Megan unpacks the question of "will hiring an ethics lawyer hurt me?" in both the moral character application and discipline contexts.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
22 May 2018
The Business Case for Being a Decent Human Being (and Lawyer) [LGE 015]
00:15:43
It’s not enough to be competent in your practice area, now clients expect lawyers to be decent human beings as well. In this episode, I share my thoughts on the importance of being a good person and how that has a positive impact on your business.
I also examine the fall out from a New York attorney’s recent "racist rant" and how that is negatively affecting his reputation and law practice.
What I Discuss in This Episode:
How lawyers now must be good people along with being competent in their practice areas
What effect, if any, your behavior outside of your lawyer duties have on your career as a lawyer
Clients care about how they’re treated, and sometimes, that’s enough to prevent a filing of a malpractice claim
How you treat clients is reflected in Google Reviews and that affects business
What can we learn from Aaron Schlossberg, the New York lawyer who recently went on a rant that basically ruined his reputation as a lawyer
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
31 Jul 2018
How to Make Completing Your CLE’s Less Painful [LGE 023]
00:14:36
Completing your CLE’s might not be the most exciting part of practicing law but it is mandatory.
If you don’t take them seriously and complete them, then you can find yourself in a lot of trouble with your State Bar if audited for compliance. Use the tips I provide in this episode to help complete your CLE requirements with more ease.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why you don't have to resort to using random, last minute cd’s to complete your credits
How to find free or cheap events offering CLE's throughout the year
Check with your malpractice insurance carrier – they often offer CLE events
Find conferences that resonate with you. That helps with completing your requirements and with meeting new people
If you’re more of a street lawyer, where you can find local gatherings and events where CLE might be provided
Great ways to keep track of your completed credits in case of an audit by the State bar
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
15 May 2018
How to Use an Online Scheduling Tool for Networking and Booking Clients with Jess Birken [LGE 014]
00:27:03
Scheduling software programs help you keep your appointments organized, but they can do so much more for your practice. From helping you set up networking meetings, to booking client calls, collecting payments for consultations, and requesting Google reviews, online scheduling software like Acuity can be a powerful tool for lawyers.
In this episode, I’m joined by Jess Birken, a non-profit attorney in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Jess loves all things tech and all things Acuity. She shares her top tips for using online scheduling software in your law practice.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
How can lawyers get over their intimidation of technology and embrace modern tools?
Aside from scheduling meetings, what else can Acuity help lawyers do?
Whether you enjoy networking or not, it’s necessary. So how can you use Acuity to schedule networking meetings and simplify the process?
Blocking off your calendar allows you to control your client meetings while maintaining a personal life
From an ethics standpoint, communicating consistently with your clients through automation can reduce complaints
Can a lawyer in any practice area benefit from using online scheduling tools?
Jared Correia's episode about law practice auditing
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
03 Apr 2018
Innovating In Your Practice Without Fear of Ethics with Melissa Hall [LGE 008]
00:43:58
Send any ethics questions that you’d like me to address in a future episode. Reach me at megan@zaviehlaw.com or Tweet me @zaviehlaw
Lawyers no longer have to fear ethics constraints when crafting a law practice that truly reflects their lifestyle desires and needs. It’s possible to build a practice that provides flexibility and fulfillment while allowing lawyers to provide legal services in the way that they choose.
I’m joined by Melissa Hall of Smol Law, a primary legal care practice in Seattle, Washington. Melissa shares how she’s innovating with her law practice without fear of ethics.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
How Melissa took an old school practice and brought it into modern day
Why it’s important for lawyers to actually care about the work that they do
Aside from providing counseling and advice, how Melissa is using her network to help clients find other lawyers
How Melissa is able to implement innovative practices
Why lawyers rarely stop and think about what they really want out of their careers
How to plan for a practice that suits your life and lifestyle
What it looks like to have a practice when you have an illness or other medical condition that requires constant attention
Planning and preparing for a “backup” lawyer for your solo practice
The virtual nature of Melissa’s practice and how she schedules her consultation calls
How Melissa’s retainer agreements and early communications with clients anticipate and reduce any surprises
The value of providing your services as a monthly retainer and subscription-style service
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
24 Sep 2019
Taking Risks and SEO with Tommy Griffith [LGE 079]
00:34:31
Lawyers are given a script in law school for how their career is supposed to go. But what can be achieved if we go off-script, and we build innovative work around the life we want to lead? Tommy Griffith took some career risks from college through leaving Airbnb where he led the SEO team, and in this episode, he touches on SEO, and talks risk-taking, recovering from failure, and being rewarded for doing things differently. There are many lessons for solo lawyers!
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
09 Jul 2019
California Leading Change - ATILS Public Comment is Coming [LGE 068]
00:25:05
As California's Task Force on Access Through Innovation of Legal Services makes its recommendations and the Board of Trustees puts them out for public comment, the country is watching closely. Every lawyers, member of the public, and consumer of legal services (i.e., everyone) needs to pay attention. Today's episode gives an overview of the proposals and calls for widespread public comment.
Proposed regulatory changes include:
- Abolishing Rule 5.4 fee sharing prohibition
- Loosening Rule 5.4 and allowing non-lawyers to share in fees
- Allowing entities owned in part or in full by non-lawyers to offer legal services
- Regulating legal tech companies as providers of legal services
And more.
These notes will be updated to provide links to public comment. For now, the agenda for the Board of Trustees upcoming meeting and the recommendations to be considered can be found here:
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
26 May 2020
Bringing Interns to the Team with Erik Pelton [LGE 114]
00:29:46
We typically think of team-building as bringing on full-time or infinite-duration members, but this mindset overlooks a great source of shorter-term talent. Law student interns can be great additions to your solo or small practice, and they give you an opportunity to streamline your processes while you give back. In this episode, Megan sits down with Erik Pelton, trademark attorney in Falls Church, Virginia, who shares his insights on hiring law student interns for his boutique practice. They talk benefits for both law firm and intern, and how to go about getting started hiring interns.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
19 Mar 2019
Intake Methods to Ensure Your Clients are the Best Fit for Your Practice [LGE 052]
00:28:39
Have you felt the pressure to take on a client that you knew might not be a good fit for you? There are many consequences if you take on these clients because of the pressure to pay the bills.
Today we will learn how to avoid clients that are maybe just not the best ones for your practice. If there are red flags that come up as you are bringing clients into the firm, then it is time to take action. It is easier to turn them away at the beginning than it is to terminate the relationship down the line. Join us today as we learn what actions you can take and systems to put in place to avoid taking on the wrong clients.
Show Highlights:
Crazy story that came out about a Michigan lawyer
What fits for your firm, ideal clients are different for everyone
Potential consequences for taking on the wrong clients
Putting a system into place to analyze incoming work
First question as you put together the system - what issues have you had in the past with the clients that have gone bad?
The issue of the source, such as referrals
Ask others in your practice area what they think the risk factors are
Other questions to ask on the intake forms to filter out bad clients
It’s important to have in your system what you do not want to take on even if for a personal reason
Have your analysis ready before the clients come in.
Not wanting the case? You need to be clear with yourself and your position.
Referring the client to someone else
Solutions to defuse any frustration with clients
Hoping this podcast stirs up some more discussion, thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
07 Apr 2020
Work From Home Fails and Tips for Doing It Right [LGE 107]
00:17:34
Senator Tammy Duckworth tweeted that she spoke to her child while working from home unmuted on a call to the Democratic Caucus. If the Illinois Senator can reveal some authenticity about the challenges from working from home, why don't we all drop the act and get real? In this episode, Megan shares some of her favorite work from home fails, both from online and her real life.
Megan also shares her five tips from her monthly newsletter (sign up here) for making working from home a success - especially from an ethics viewpoint.
- Be accessible
- Get on email update lists
- Watch what you're showing on video
- Try to keep your habits
- Keep sane
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
20 Nov 2018
Growing Your Practice Through Digital Information Products with Jess Birken [LGE 038]
00:33:38
Following our presentation at Clio Conference, my co-presenter, Jess Birken, and I sat down to reflect on our discussion of our presentation topic - growing your practice through digital information products. Whether it’s for additional income or to increase access to justice, there are many reasons to consider creating digital products. We discuss what lawyers should be aware of before they embark on the journey of creating their own products.
Jess Birken is the owner of Birken Law and she helps non-profits with their legal matters.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
What are digital information products and how are lawyers using them in their practices?
Jess's digital product and how it’s helping her clients
How is Jess monetizing her online course?
My California specific digital product
How narrow or broad can your digital product be?
What ethical implications are involved in creating digital products?
The importance of understanding where customers are in their journey
How much time and work goes into creating a product?
What is mindmapping and how can it help distill big ideas into smaller parts?
Keep your approach to your product small. Don’t try to do too much from the get-go. Iterate as you go
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
24 Dec 2019
Merry Automated Christmas! [LGE 092]
00:18:27
Automation can make a practice run much more smoothly, giving you peace of mind, fewer errors, and fewer hours of work. In this Christmas episode, Megan runs through some ideas for how you can introduce automation to your practice.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
06 Nov 2018
Improve Profits and Lower Expenses By Outsourcing Legal Work with Kristin Tyler [LGE 036]
00:24:01
When you’re overwhelmed with work and the paperwork on your desk keeps piling up, that’s usually a good indication that you need help! Being busy is certainly better than the alternative when you’re running your law practice but in order to be the most effective and competent attorney you can be, you need help. That’s where outsourcing and delegation come into play.
My guest today is Kristin Tyler. Kristin is the Co-Founder of LAWCLERK, a service that helps attorneys hire freelance lawyers to assist with various projects. LAWCLERK provides a “win/win” scenario for busy lawyers who can match up with freelancing legal professionals who need extra work.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
What LAWCLERK is and what services they provide
How this service helps alleviate the overwhelm for many lawyers
What LAWCLERK’s process is for matching lawyers with freelancers
How LAWCLERK remains ethically compliant
The two states where lawyers can’t use LAWCLERK
What does using LAWCLERK mean for the solo attorney?
What steps are taken to maintain confidentiality and handle conflicts of interest while using the service
How secure LAWCLERK’s technology is
Who are the freelancers using LAWCLERK?
What can and can’t the freelance lawyer do under the guidelines of Law Clerk?
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
29 Dec 2020
Wrapping Up 2020 [LGE 134]
00:12:37
We can't end 2020 the way we end most years, with improving office organization and reviewing fee agreements. Rather, this is a year to end with a focus on being kind to ourselves, setting new types of goals, and thinking about intentionally designing the coming year. In this episode, Megan highlights her article recently published on Attorney at Work on what items should be on our year-end checklist.
Thanks for listening!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
14 Jul 2020
5 Things To Prepare For Running a Law Firm from Home with Kids [LGE 121]
00:17:11
Many families will have the kids home this fall, whether by choice or school policies. If you're going to be running your law firm from home in the presence of homeschooled kids, Megan has come up with five things you (and she) can do now to prepare for a smoother road and ethical law practice ahead.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
10 Mar 2020
Law Practice in the Coming Age of Autonomous Vehicles with Damien Riehl [LGE 103]
00:35:41
Autonomous vehicles sound like Knight Rider's Kit, but they are in real development for use on the roads -- and to some extent, they are already here. In this episode, Megan is joined by Damien Riehl, legal technologist, Managing Director of Fastcase Legal Research Platform, and member of Minnesota's Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles. They talk about what autonomous vehicles are, what we can expect to see in development, and what their rise means for practice areas including personal injury and products liability.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
27 Feb 2018
The Role of Kindness in Reducing Ethics Complaints [LGE 003]
00:19:56
What does kindness have to do with ethics complaints? Well, possibly a lot! I believe that if more lawyers practiced kindness towards their clients and even towards opposing counsel, even when it is difficult to do so, there would be fewer ethics complaints filed against them. That's exactly what I discuss in this episode.
What I Discuss In This Episode:
What does it mean to be kind?
Who do we need to be kind to and why?
What should lawyers do to insure their clients are happy?
What role does kindness play in the attorney-client relationship?
How does kindness make you a better lawyer?
What can a lawyer do once a Bar complaint has already been filed
Can kindness be self-satisfying?
Resources Mentioned
The Lawyerist Podcast by Sam Glover and Aaron Street
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
17 Dec 2019
Advocacy in the Public Forum with Ruby Powers [LGE 091]
00:24:45
Immigration lawyer and Congressional candidate Ruby Powers talks about using the power of the public forum in advocating for clients.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
02 Jul 2019
Women Building Law Firms of the Future with Erin Gerstenzang [LGE 067]
00:21:28
While we all wait for the ethics rules to change and open up avenues of innovation such as non-lawyer ownership in law firms, there are lawyers grabbing the bull by the horns and changing how they practice despite the confines of the ethics rules. These lawyers are offering subscription legal services, virtual multi-state practices, concierge wills and trusts service through virtual portals, empowering self-represented litigants, and more. On this episode, Megan and her guest Erin Gerstenzang will highlight some of these lawyers and also dish on presenting a talk to the Tennessee Lawyers Association for Women Empowerment Conference on this very topic.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
04 Jun 2019
Women Mentoring Women with Erin Gerstenzang [LGE 063]
00:30:42
Erin Gerstenzang and Megan presented a workshop on Women Mentoring Women at the Tennessee Lawyers Association for Women Empowerment Conference in March 2019. On this episode, Megan and Erin talk about women mentoring each other, why it's critical that we stand up and help each other, how women mentor differently than men, and what specifically we can be doing to work together.
This workshop is one Erin and Megan are taking on the road, so be sure to check out their speaker pages (Megan's Speaker Page, Erin's Speaker Page) for more information on booking speaking engagements.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
21 Aug 2018
Avoiding Mental Illness Treatment Out of Fear of the Moral Character Application with Margaret Hannon and Katherine Silver Kelly [LGE 025]
00:40:47
Many law students fear seeking the necessary attention and help for their mental health issues because they know they’re likely to have to report it on their moral character application. Even though few applicants are denied admission based on mental health treatment or diagnoses, there is still a lot of stigma surrounding seeking help. So what are law students and lawyers applying anew for their moral character application to do?
I’m joined by two wonderful guests, Margaret Hannon and Katherine Silver Kelly, to discuss the fear surrounding seeking necessary help. Margaret is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Michigan law school, and she teaches Legal Research and Writing. Katherine is the Director of Academic Support at Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and has a lot of experience working with students, preparing them to apply for their character and fitness application process.
What We Discuss in this Episode:
Knowing a student will likely have to disclose having sought treatment for mental health issues would discourage them from actually seeking help
Are law students truly fearing the moral character application as they enter law school and progress through?
What are some reasons students list for not receiving treatment?
Seeking help while in law school is a great way to ensure success as a lawyer
There is no predictive correlation between mental health and competency as a lawyer
For many states, fellow lawyers are the ones making the determination of an applicant’s mental fitness
The importance of seeking help even if it’s uncomfortable
The benefits of disclosing mental health concerns
Seeking help from appropriate professionals instead of from other law student s
How is the Department of Justice connected to this discussion of mental health?
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
03 Jul 2018
10 Things Every New Lawyer Needs to Know [LGE 020]
00:24:04
Whether you’re a new lawyer or you’ve been practicing for many years, this is a great episode that will serve as advice (or as a reminder) for how to make the most of being a lawyer and be the best you can be.
The Top Ten Things Every New Lawyer Needs to Know:
Have a realistic perspective of your importance. That includes neither underestimating nor overestimating how much you matter.
Don’t bend your principles. You graduated from law school with a backbone so be sure to stand up for what you believe in, even if it’s against your much more experienced employer.
Never stop learning. You’re going to learn something new everyday in your law career and the sources from which you learning are varied.
You know more than you think you know. In the legal community, your voice needs to be heard so be sure to share what you know.
Get used to being wrong. Let go of the idea of being perfect and learn to accept the fact that you are going to be wrong at some point. Take it like a champ and learn from it.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll be surprised how helpful other lawyers are and how willing they are to offer some advice
Start to establish a “real” network. By “real” I mean on a genuine level; don’t just be a LinkedIn connection. Introduce yourself to actual people, online or in person. Have personal conversations.
Appreciate the extensive scope of what it means to be a lawyer. Your degree is super flexible and you can create any type of life and career you want with your degree.
Look for tools to help when you feel like you need the help. A tool can be any resource (a person, technology, etc.) that helps you run your practice more smoothly.
Take care of yourself. This is self-explanatory but many lawyers (experienced and new) need to hear this.
What advice do you have for brand new lawyers? Tweet me @zaviehlaw or email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com with your advice.
Thank you for listening!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
14 May 2019
State Bar Probation: Managing Without Violation [LGE 060]
00:25:46
Being on probation with the State Bar can be more complex and significant than you might anticipate. When you are on probation, even the most unintentional or seemingly trivial mistake can lead to monumental consequences.
In today’s episode, Ethics Attorney, Megan Zavieh shares exactly what you need to know to make it through the probation process in a clean and efficient manner, so that you can restore your standing without further repercussions. While the California Bar is the example the information provided in this podcast, the principles are applicable in every state. This episode can be used as a guide to help you resolve disciplinary probation successfully.
Show Highlights:
Understanding why it’s unethical to ask a client not to file a Bar complaint
How to resolve the issues that could result in a complaint being filed
What the probation process involves and how to prepare for it
Understanding the trivialities and expectations of your probation
Making a list to fulfill the requirements of your probation
The repercussions of failing to fulfill your probation obligations
Anticipating potential pitfalls of Bar probation
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
09 Jun 2020
File Destruction Policies [LGE 116]
00:13:18
Good policies and procedures make a law office run ethically, but file destruction is one where a lot of lawyers have questions. How long should we keep files? When does the time period begin to run? How do I let my client know? In this episode, Megan explores these questions and promotes some best practices.
Thanks for listening!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
27 Mar 2018
What Should Be In Your Social Media Profile Really? [LGE 007]
00:15:01
What should your social media profile(s) include? Are you compliant with the ethical rules when you build out your social media profiles? In this episode, I discuss what you should consider including in your profiles in order to remain compliant.
What I Cover in This Episode:
When is your social media profile considered attorney advertising and when is it not?
What must you include in your profile if we are to treat it like attorney advertising?
On Facebook specifically, what’s the important and necessary information to include
What about Twitter? What should be included there, especially considering there’s less room to include information?
What disclaimers, if any, should you include?
How can you make the best use of the “Pin Post” option?
Should you include terminology indicating specialization? If so, what language should you include?
Can you include testimonials in your profile? Should you?
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
22 Oct 2019
Ethically Outsourcing Substantive Legal Work with Talitha Gray Kozlowski [LGE 083]
00:34:58
LAWCLERK was started by three partners who saw a growth market in outsourced substantive legal work. Answers to ethics questions were critical to establishing a marketplace for lawyers seeking lawyer help on their substantive legal work. In this episode, Megan and guest Talitha Gray Kozlowski dive into the ethics issues facing lawyers who need some help on their client files.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
07 Jul 2020
Diploma Privilege in Lieu of Bar Exam in 2020 with Jordan Couch [LGE 120]
00:38:11
Bar exams are a rite of passage for attorneys graduating from law school and being sworn in to practice law. But what if the bar exam is not feasible, such as during COVID-19? And what if the bar exam has an incredibly racist history that calls it further into question? And what if there is no empirical evidence that the bar exam has any correlation to an individual's ability to effectively practice law? Jordan Couch is the Chair of the Washington Young Lawyers Committee, and he has been taking up the laboring oar on diploma privilege, gathering data and writing to advocate for more state bars to grant graduates the right to practice. Jordan sat down with Megan to discuss this pressing issue and its many ramifications.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
23 Jul 2019
Non-Lawyer Ownership: Public Comment to California ATILS [LGE 070]
00:26:36
Non-lawyer ownership of organizations providing legal services is a broad topic encompassing solos sharing their operating accounts with their spouses all the way to publicly traded law firms. As California considers rule changes that would allow non-lawyer ownership, this episode explores what non-lawyer ownership may look like, common arguments in support of the ban, thoughts on whether the ban actually protects against the supposed risks of non-lawyer ownership, and the California proposals to permit those without law licenses to participate financially in entities that provide legal services. This episode even addresses the fear that Walmart will open a law firm in every store -- and why that possibility is not such a bad idea.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
22 Jan 2019
How to Manage the Things that Can Go Wrong (and Right!) During Trial [LGE 045]
00:22:35
I recorded this episode while I was in the middle of a trial. I noticed that while we cover a lot of ethics-related topics on this show, all of the topics, like self-care and crossing ethical boundaries, become extremely apparent when you’re in trial. That’s why I’m sharing my insight on the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of trial and how you can get through them.
What I Cover in This Episode:
Civility in trial and how that is tested during trial
The way that the attorneys behave during trial can be of utmost importance to many judges
The types of behaviors between opposing counsel that would qualify as “unprofessional”
Why it’s important to keep your word when it comes to trial exhibits and witness lists
Don’t bother with baseless objections. They waste everyone’s time
How can you maintain self-care during trial?
Continue to check your email, even during trial, because people expect to hear from you
Set expectations with an email Out of Office responder
Make sure your phone is being answered while you’re in trial
Why it’s important to manage your stress levels during trial by taking time for yourself (even though it’s hard)
Always remember to have fun and enjoy the process
Send me your favorite tips to care for yourself during trial!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
13 Aug 2019
Fighting to Make Law Free with Ed Walters [LGE 073]
00:39:28
If you think that the laws we study in law school, from cases to statutes to regulations, are free, think again. Copyright claims over the laws governing our country stymie access and innovation. Ed Walters, CEO of Fastcase, joins Megan to dive into this issue and the upcoming Supreme Court case that may change it.
Highlights include:
- Ed's teaching of the law of robots
- Historical perspective of the fight to make law public
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
24 Jul 2018
CEO or Expert: Which One Should You Be in Your Law Practice? with Mike Whelan [LGE 022]
00:50:37
For many solo practitioners, they believe they need to be the CEO’s and the experts of their law practices. After all, more often than not, it’s just them running the show. But is that necessarily the best way to grow your business? My guest today is Mike Whelan, operator of the Lawyer Forward conference, soon-to-be author, and legal consultant. Mike believes lawyers need to choose one or the other and he supports his claims in this fascinating conversation.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Why Clio’s Legal Trends Report, which reported the dismal amount of hours lawyers were billing, is not as worrisome as it might seem
Lawyers’ inability to choose between being the CEO of the firm or the expert is creating great impact on the profession
Can a solo practitioner be both the CEO and the expert?
Access and expertise are not compatible and yet clients expect both from solo practitioners
Why human brains are trying hard to shorten the pathways and create routines
Studies show that doctors tend to get worse at tasks with age. Can that be analogized to lawyers?
Can you find ways to provide value, solutions, and innovation for your law firm without being the practitioner and administrator?
Are experienced practitioners not using their brains the way they should be used to maximize potential?
It’s important to eliminate unimportant work by following the 80/20 rule
There’s greater demand for legal experts than there is for lawyers
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
10 Dec 2019
Emotional Lawyering with Erin and Jennifer Gerstenzang [LGE 090]
00:20:00
"Emotional Lawyering" - Should lawyers think more critically about responding to their client's pain points and focusing on their emotional needs and how do you do it?
How Erin Levine has built Hello Divorce by identifying and meeting clients' emotional needs
How to identify and handle clients who want that hand-holding versus those who do not
Can you care too much? Secondary post-traumatic disorder for lawyers
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
29 Oct 2019
Jack Newton at Clio Con 2019 [LGE 084]
00:26:30
There is so much to talk about from Clio Con 2019, including the Legal Trends Report. In this episode, Jack Newton stops by the Lawyers Gone Ethical recording booth.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
19 Jun 2018
How to Help Your Family Deal With Your Malpractice Suit [LGE 019]
00:14:00
If you’re involved in the discipline process, a lot of that stress you're dealing with carries over and affects your family too. So how can you help them handle the stress that comes along with dealing with malpractice suits? That's what I discuss in this episode.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The type of stress and fears your spouse and kids (if you have any) will experience as they watch you deal with a malpractice claim
How to deal with the financial concerns that might arise
Why it’s important to keep your spouse and family in the loop regarding your complaint
Not sharing enough information with your spouse is worse than keeping them informed
Consider introducing your spouse to your lawyer if you end up hiring one
Include your spouse in major decision making
Mentally work through the worst case scenarios
Thank you for listening!
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
21 Jul 2020
Enduring 2020 Bar Exam Uncertainty [LGE 122]
00:19:25
The bar exam has gone from traditional end-of-July ritual to a jungle of uncertainty, constantly changing dates and conditions, and total chaos for everyone who intended to take the exam and start their legal career this summer. In an episode geared specifically to those in this situation, Megan talks about some strategies for staying in the know without getting overwhelmed, changing career course if needed, and maintaining perspective.
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
30 Jul 2019
Legal Coaching: Law Firm Service of the Future with Jennifer Gerstenzang [LGE 71]
00:41:59
Legal coaching, or limited scope representation, can address a tremendous need for participants in the justice system to get access to information not otherwise available to them. In this episode, criminal defense attorney and legal coach Jennifer Gerstenzang talks with Megan about her coaching practice. Highlights include:
- How legal coaching bridges the gap for criminal defendants awaiting assignment to public defenders, allowing them to prepare for their first court date in a way otherwise reserved for those with private counsel
- The other needs addressed by legal coaching, including assisting family members of criminal defendants in understanding the process
- Legal coaching allows the attorney to offer services that fit in a more flexible work style
- Ethics issues raised by legal coaching and how to address them
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
25 Jun 2019
Finding Fulfillment Without Leaving the Office [LGE066]
00:28:24
We talk a lot about lawyer wellness, including getting out of the office and disconnecting from professional life, but we can address wellness issues from inside the office too. In this episode, we explore ideas for nourishing your professional soul.
Share your ideas for how to nourish your professional soul.
Thanks for listening!
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
16 Apr 2019
Oops! I Made a Mistake: When Ethics Rules Require Notifying the Client [LGE 056]
00:36:51
When do we tell a client we made a mistake - whether big or small? Delivering bad news is not easy, so it helps to know how to handle these situations. Today, we discuss ABA opinions that deal with specific instances of the disclosure. Sometimes we overestimate the requirements on what needs to actually be shared. so today you’ll learn what to disclose to be in full compliance. Tune in and discover the two 2018 ABA opinions that need to be at the forefront of our minds.
Show Highlights:
Go back and listen to episode 30 with Kathleen Havener on delivering bad news in the best way
First ABA opinion Formal Opinion 483 - Lawyers’ Obligations After an Electronic Data Breach or Cyberattack
ABA opinions are not binding but extremely instructive
Second ABA opinion Formal Opinion 481 - A Lawyer’s Duty to Inform a Current or Former Client of the Lawyer’s Material Error
Megan’s own experience with her website that was hacked years ago
The definitions of a data breach or cyberattack
Safe harbors to safeguarding information such as firewalls
Lawyers are encouraged to adopt and follow both paper and electronic document retention schedules
The disclosure must be sufficient to provide enough information for the client to make an informed decision as of what to do next
What kind of mistake require disclosure
Rule 1.4 is for current clients, not former ones
What kind of things are material to the disclosure
Hoping this podcast stirs up some more discussion, thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
DUI Roadmaps: Digital Products for Lawyers with Erin Gerstenzang [LGE 096]
00:33:24
Consumer-facing digital legal products assist self-represented consumers, but lawyers need education and guidance too. Frequent guest and contributor Erin Gerstenzang is an accomplished trial lawyer, and in this episode she and Megan talk digital legal products designed to train other lawyers on specialized areas. Erin has recently launched DUI Roadmaps, which is an online course and tool for DUI lawyers around the country to prepare for trial. She and Megan talk about how providing expertise to other lawyers is a niche that is frequently overlooked.
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
02 Jun 2020
New Ethics Guidance & Supervising Remote Lawyers [LGE 115]
00:31:32
As teams disperse to remote work environments, the lawyer's duty to supervise takes on new wrinkles. Pennsylvania issued an ethics opinion to help guide us; it brings together past ethics opinions and adds details for today's new world. Kristin Tyler of LawClerk knows plenty about working remotely and supervising remote teams, since the business model relies upon a decentralized workforce. She joins Megan to talk about Pennsylvania's opinion and key issues for remote teams. Topics include:
- Making sure remote workers abide by confidentiality duties
- Asking your remote team questions you would normally not, such as the identity of roommates, the physical setup at home, and their network password security
- Moving ahead, how law firm work will change
- Civility in the profession, today and as we go forward
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
28 Jan 2020
Authenticity in Lawyering with Shreya Ley [LGE 097]
00:18:45
Lawyers often hide their real selves behind their lawyer personas, but Shreya Ley and her husband Colin have built their practice largely on the premise that the shield can be dropped and we can be our real selves at work, in marketing, and with clients. At Clio Con 2019, they presented together on this topic, and Shreya visited with Megan to talk about what it means to be authentic in lawyering, how to take the perceived risk of letting your guard down, and the incredible payoffs.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
31 Dec 2019
Using Data to Plan 2020 with Clio's George Psiharis [LGE 093]
00:17:28
Lawyers as a profession are pretty bad about using data, but it is extremely powerful. Clio recognizes this fact and creates the Legal Trends Report each year to highlight trends in the profession. This year’s report had some interesting insights, some of which confirm what lawyers already believe and some which challenge our beliefs. The report’s chief architect, George Psiharis, visited with Megan at Clio Con 2019 to talk about it.
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
11 Aug 2020
Military Spouses and More: How to Move Without a Bar Exam [LGE 124]
00:16:49
There are lots of reasons for lawyers to move from state to state, but when a bar exam gets in the way, it turns into a real pain. Whether you're a military spouse, an in-house lawyer, cultivating a Federal practice, or lucky enough to get reciprocity, Megan talks about how you can move and still practice law. (In this older Attorney at Work article, Megan talked about ways to move without taking an exam.)
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, and Tunein and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Website
Email me at megan[at]zaviehlaw[dot]com
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
24 Apr 2018
Proper Billing Practices That Reduce Bar Complaints [LGE 011]
00:15:00
What are some proper billing practices that can help reduce the potential for bar complaints against you? In this episode, I share several best practices when it comes to billing clients for work performed.
What I Cover In this Episode:
Make sure what’s reflected in your retainer agreement is also reflected in your billing practices
Bill early and bill often
Why you should describe the work you’re performing even if you’re billing on a flat fee basis instead of hourly
Reconcile your trust account at least once a month
Should the bills you send out include some sort of update on the case?
What method of client communication will increase their chances of receiving and opening their bills?
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
17 Jul 2018
How to Create Compelling Marketing Content, Ethically with Nick Rishwain [LGE 021]
00:53:16
Content marketing presents a great opportunity for lawyers who wish to increase their visibility online and grow their practices. Through blogging and video creation, lawyers can begin to establish genuine relationships with potential clients online. But, of course, there's always that fear of crossing ethical rules. That's what my guest and I discuss in this episode.
I’m joined by Nick Rishwain, Vice President of Client Relations and Business Development for Experts.com, an online marketing platform for expert witnesses and consultants, and we're tackling the topic of creating compelling content ethically.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Lawyers have to create content – it’s no longer merely a “consideration,” it has to be done
Your customers/clients are not reading law journals or academic journals so make sure you’re creating content on platforms where your audience and clients are
Common objections that lawyers have when it comes to creating content
Why it’s not necessarily the best strategy to load your blog posts with law firm-specific SEO keywords if you actually want them to be readable
What is newsjacking and how can you use it to generate ideas for content you can create?
When creating content about current events, you want to make sure you don’t appear to be ambulance-chasing
Is there room for more educational-type of content as opposed to more marketing-driven type of content
What type of Call-To-Action can go along with your content?
Why you shouldn’t worry about “giving away all of your secrets” when you’re creating content
How you can be using videos to reach out to potential clients
Why any type of videos, including Facebook Live and Instagram Stories, are helpful in familiarizing potential clients with you
For how long should you retain copies of your communications?
Resources Mentioned:
Mitch Jackson – Southern California personal injury lawyer
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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
12 Jun 2018
Why We Need Data Driven Ethics Reform with Erin Gerstenzang [LGE 018]
00:28:29
The legal industry has been stagnant when it comes to making any sort of ethics reform. For the states that are making changes to their ethics rules, those changes are typically based on opinions and arguments but not on data. The data is out there; we need to collect it and organize it in a way that will help regulators make better decisions.
I’m joined by criminal defense attorney and legal ethics enthusiast, Erin Gerstenzang. Erin and I are leading the charge on the Data Driven Ethics Project, which is a research project to compile, analyze and organize data about today's world of legal services in order to better draft the rules of professional conduct to embody traditional legal ethics in today's technology-enabled world.
What We Discuss in this Episode:
Why no state wants to be the first to “stick its neck out” when it comes to progressive ethics reform
Why some states are banning lawyer referral services by companies like Avvo and why that’s, in fact, harming the public instead of protecting them
Many of the ethics rules as they are now limit the ability of the public to seek the help they need, which ultimately has the opposite effect of why the rules exist in the first place
California’s recent ethics reform is certainly a huge leap forward and the changes are useful, but they’re still not based on data
In order for lawyers to be able to follow the rules, they must be able to understand them. And unfortunately, most of the ethics rules and opinions are not written clearly
If regulators are to create rules that truly reflect how lawyers practice these days and how the public interacts with lawyers, they need to rely on data
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio, andGoogle Play, and be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
04 Sep 2018
10 Tips for New Lawyers Entering the Profession [LGE 027]
00:23:40
If you’re a new lawyer just starting out in your legal career, you’ll want to tune in to episode to hear my top 10 tips (and 1 bonus one!) to help you succeed.
If you’re a more seasoned attorney, I’d love to hear your best tip for new lawyers. Tweet me @zaviehlaw
My top 10 tips:
No matter how brilliant you are, you are going to be working with people who know more than you do
Why “I don’t know” or “No” are not sufficient responses
Ask a lot of questions (even if you think you’re irritating the people you’re asking)
Communication is key!
Under-promise and over-deliver
Internalize feedback, from anyone, but especially from senior members at your firm
Have an exit strategy
Give help and give credit
Know your tools
Don’t forget to network!
And one bonus:
Take care of yourself!
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions/concerns:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
19 May 2020
Reigniting Productivity in COVID-19 [LGE 113]
00:24:34
Even the United States Supreme Court has had to adapt to working remotely during COVID-19. Still, long-term lockdown (plus further uncertainty with kids ending school and some businesses reopening) can really suck the productivity out of us. In this episode, Megan explores some tips for getting back to business during these uncertain times. Highlights include:
- Changing up the routine
- Revisiting your early quarantine plans
- Checking out available resources
- Grasping a realistic view of your firm's current situation
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode, please help me get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show inApple Podcasts,Stitcher Radio,Google Play, and Tuneinand be sure to share this podcast with a friend.
Be sure to connect with me and reach out with any questions or recommendations for specific resources:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.
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