One of the first cases I handled as a young lawyer was a small claims court breach of contract case in Indiana. I represented a business that sold a fax machine to a lawyer who failed to make payment for the equipment. We sued the lawyer for a whopping $1,243. Before the case was concluded, I left the Indiana law firm to move back to North Carolina. A year or so later, I was contacted by a lawyer representing my former client. He advised that the defendant lawyer had submitted into evidence a letter that appeared to be fabricated. The letter was dated December 7, 1991, and recited that he had spoken with me and that I told him to settle directly with the client for $86.   Read More +

I got an email this week from an insured who is facing a relatable and common problem for lawyers in 2024: he is in the middle of a big matter involving lots of people inside and outside his firm (clients, experts, opposing counsel, and so on) and he is just getting buried in a blizzard of email.    Read More +

I recently spoke to a lawyer who was representing a client in a litigation matter. The client had fallen on hard times and was having trouble paying basic living expenses. The lawyer had a genuine humanitarian concern for the welfare of this client and had given the client some money to help with gas, food, and… Read More +

When it comes to determining partner compensation, the debate over whether to use a strict formula or take a more subjective approach has been long-standing. On the surface, a formula-driven compensation model offers clear advantages. It provides transparency, objectivity, and the ability to reward specific per… Read More +

A quick tip sheet highlighting password best practices to help secure your data. Read More +

While it can seem overwhelming when you do it right starting your own firm can give you flexibility, financial independence, and a thriving career. Following the path of an attorney who achieved her goal of setting up her own successful practice, this book walks you through every step of starting a law firm -- the right way, and without breaking the bank. Includes sample forms, checklists, and a business plan. Read More +

This book is an objective guide for the third-year law student and the new associate to be successful. By knowing in advance the challenges that you will face heading into your first year of practice, you can ease the transition from law school to the practice of law and be on a path to success. Read More +

Claims counsel Troy Crawford describes steps you can take to avoid wire fraud and what you can do if you become a victim. Read More +

NC State Bar Trust Account Compliance Counsel Peter Bolac discusses frauds and scams that target attorney trust accounts. Read More +