@downtownlawyer

May 26th, 2009

Associate, Anderson, Murphy & Hopkins, L.L.P.

Today, we’re tweeting with @Downtownlawyer: lawyer, writer, blogger, do-it-yourself-er, kickball-playing extraordinaire

@Downtownlawyer, thank you for joining us today on Twitter. Tell us: who is @Downtownlawyer?
I’m an associate at a small law firm in Little Rock, AR. I write a blog (Downtown Lawyer), which focuses on AR legal issues.
Tell us about your law practice.
I handle a lot of cases regarding insurance coverage, construction defects, products liability, and MVAs.
What type of clients do you represent?
Most of my clients are insurance companies and their insureds.
What’s the single most important legal issue affecting your clients?
Bad faith claims. Once an insurer denies a claim, even if done with the best of intentions, . . .
. . . they’re potentially liable for bad faith. There’s absolutely no room for error.
That sounds risky…. How is the economic crisis affecting your clients?
As far as I can tell, none. My firm is busier than ever.
That’s good to hear. What do you tell every new client before you start working for them?
I explain that I have 2 clients—the insurer & the insured. I outline the limitations of my representation . . .
. . . and explain that I cannot be involved in any dispute between the insured & the insurer.
That’s a crucial point to make! What’s the most significant client representation you’ve had?
My 1st client, as a law student, in litigation clinic. I helped a lady get guardianship of her grandson. . .
. . . Helps me to remember that lawyers have a duty to help those in need.
That’s a nice story. Why do your clients hire you?
Because I take their concerns seriously, and I’m always available to answer their questions.
How are you and your firm responding to financial difficulties your clients may be experiencing?
My firm hasn’t made any changes because our referrals have increased.
You talk about referrals as a source of business. How do you market your practice?
Mostly by continuing to do excellent work. Also through networking (in-person & social media) & writing my blog.
You blog at Downtown Lawyer (http://bit.ly/150PrA). Who is it written for? Why should they read it?
AR lawyers & anyone interested in AR law. It’s concise without a lot of BS :D
What was your objective when you started blogging? Has it changed?
I wanted to do something I love (writing), which would provide me a marketing tool. That goal hasn’t changed.
Has blogging made you a better lawyer? How?
Yes. I know a lot more about what’s going on in AR, the region, the nation, and the world.
How much time do you spend each day developing / enhancing your brand?
B/c I consider my work, my personality, everything about me to be my “brand”–so every minute of every day.
Makes sense. Have your Web 2.0 activities had a direct impact on referrals / client engagements?
Not really. I haven’t been blogging long & I’ve been on Twitter even less. Relationships w/other attys have grown a lot.
Am sure it will come. Let’s switch gears: what is the most significant issue currently facing the legal profession?
Lack of legal representation for those who cannot afford it.
What will the legal landscape look like in 10 years?
I haven’t got a clue. I love reading/hearing what others think though.
What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
I’d be an English professor.
Why did you become a lawyer?
I was a paralegal for several years (at the same firm I’m at now). I loved what they did and wanted to do it too.
Wow – that’s an even better story! How do you want to be remembered?
As a fair attorney, who represented her clients well; and as a good friend, who was always ready for a laugh.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I read a lot, watch TV, and play on the internet. I have 2 Cocker Spaniels that I spoil & a house that I’m still renovating.
Last question for you: what advice do you have for people going to law school today?
Get some real-world experience before going to law school. It makes a world of difference in dealing w/stress of law school.