The Art Of Practicing Law

Often the most profound, and emotionally memorable, moments in the practice of law occur in behind-the-scenes "backstories." These backstories reveal sometimes-wrenching private meetings with clients or their families, encounters with others, such as Governor George Wallace, perhaps the most notorious racist of the twentieth century, in his hospital room after he was shot and paralyzed, reflections on the nature of truth, and a heartfelt homage to the equalizing force of the American jury system. Kramon's book contains an overarching theme: we advance the rule of law even in the routine practice of our profession, and, in so doing, we acquire wisdom, often from the most unlikely sources. Certain to inform, instruct and entertain lawyers and laymen alike -Stephen H. Sachs, Former Attorney General of Maryland and United States Attorney

This book is written for lawyers who want to master the art of practicing law, whether they are in private practice, in government agency practice, or working in-house for a business corporation or a non-profit organization. The book fills the gap between the critical skills taught in traditional law school courses and the additional skills and attributes that are needed to be highly effective as a lawyer. Law students reading this book will gain helpful insights about the practice of law as they decide where they want to practice. Practical guidance is provided on a number of topics, including these: building trust in professional relationships; communicating effectively with clients, colleagues and other people; dealing with difficult people; developing leadership skills; creating and maintaining solid relationships with clients; representing clients well; effective advocacy; the art of negotiation; using case themes and storytelling in civil lawsuits; taking effective depositions; working with expert witnesses; making the most of mediation as an alternative to litigation; handling ethical challenges; representing clients wholeheartedly without compromising personal morality or integrity; and maintaining personal well-being. The author is a successful lawyer with extensive experience, both as a law firm partner in private practice and as Assistant General Counsel in the legal department of a Fortune 100 company.

Every year, tens of thousands of people graduate from law school, pass the bar exam, and undertake the practice of law. But only a select few truly develop the art of lawyering—the insight, the gut, the feel, the voice, the gesture, the talent required to excel as a lawyer and stand out from the rest of the crowd. This book is written especially for the new lawyer who wants to excel in his or her chosen career, whether starting a solo practice or joining an established firm. It provides information on: The art of rainmaking—finding and keeping clients The art of billing your clients and getting them to pay you on time without losing business The art of negotiation, both in and out of the courtroom The art of a trial—preparing your case, questioning witnesses, selecting the jury

This book focuses on navigating the intricacies of the Administrative Procedures Act (APA) of the U.S. federal government, along with California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois, the largest states with well-developed administrative environments.

This collection of essays written by The Curmudgeon, offers practical, honest and you need to know this advice for surviving and thriving in a law firm. The book covers the basics of law practice and law firm etiquette, from doing effective research and writing to dressing for success, dealing with staff and clients and building a law practice. Concise, humorous and full of valuable (albeit curmudgeonly) insight, this is a must-read for every newly minted law school graduate or new lawyer.