TORT TALK PRACTICE TIP

ALWAYS EXTEND PROFESSIONAL COURTESIES

What goes around, comes around.

There will be times when you need a continuance.  Therefore, requests for continuances should be granted without hesitation wherever possible by fellow attorneys as well as the bench particularly where there is no prejudice to the parties involved.  

Try to return all phone calls within 24 hours wherever possible.  If you don't want to talk to the person who called, at least send an email response back to their voicemail.

Avoid discovery fights.  Discovery that an opposing party is clearly entitled to under the Rules should be produced in a timely fashion and without the necessity of unnecessary motions practice.

Spreading praise always promotes professionalism among attorneys.  If an opposing counsel makes a good presentation in court or submits an excellent brief let them know that while you disagree with the position stated, you were impressed nevertheless by the presentation.  If you hear of a colleague or client who has won a case or earned an award of some sort, drop them a note, email, or text of congratulations.