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Steve Mesirow: Mesirow Financial | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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Steve Mesirow is the Senior Managing Director in Mesirow Wealth Management and he has been providing expert investment advice and financial planning strategies to his clients for over 25 years. In this episode, Steve talks about how law businesses are at a disadvantage because they register their taxes at the highest rates. He discussed all the ways in which lawyers can build and protect their wealth in a tax-advantaged way.

Through systems called Cash Balance Plan, Donor Advised Funds, Profit-sharing, or Roth IRA, lawyers can do their best at their career without losing any of their well-earned money. Steve also talks about all the ways in which his company helps people – lawyers or otherwise – worry about things that are impactful, helping them save money in ways that are meaningful in the big picture.

Key moments:

  • Building and protecting wealth through a cash balance plan(2:07)
  • Deduction through donor advised funds (14:02)
  • The difference between fiduciary and non-fiduciary (23:22)
  • Saving money in meaningful ways  (26:41)

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MEMORABLE QUOTES

Steve Mesirow

“The best use of your time is to work on your business and not be following down the rules of different financial planning aspects or chasing down a couple of stocks. That might not be the best utilization of your time.” – Steve Mesirow

ABOUT STEVE MESIROW

Steve Mesirow, Senior Managing Director in Mesirow Financial

Wealth Management and Financial Planning

Steven Mesirow is a Senior Managing Director in Mesirow Wealth Management. He provides investment advice and financial planning strategies to individuals, business owners and charitable organizations that are designed to help accumulate, manage and preserve wealth.

Steven joined the firm in 1993 and has more than 25 years of financial services experience.

Steven serves on the Jewish United Fund Health and Human Services subcommittee. He has developed a social investment strategy; Mesirow Impact Management – a portfolio strategy that invests in companies with a positive corporate culture.

Steven earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history/political science from the University of Michigan, a Master of Arts in history from the University of Maryland and a Management Aptitude Test in teaching from the American University. Steve is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional and a Certified Fund Specialist™ (CFS™).

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenmesirow/

Website: http://www.mesirowfinancial.com/

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your host Ron Bockstahler runs Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week he’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. He’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our legal support staff for lawyers in Chicago.

Ryan Kimler: How a Fractional CFO can Help a Firm’s Profitability | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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Ryan Kimler is the Founder of Financial Clarity, working with solo and partner practice law firms, bringing them financial clarity to grow their law practice into successful and profitable businesses. In this episode, Ryan talks about how important financial discipline and accounting is for a law firm and how invaluable the guidance of a CFO or accountant can be on that regard.

They also discuss how the CFO and accountant is not only useful for keeping your law firm financially uncompromised, but also to project future earnings and actions that must be taken to ensure the firm’s profit for each of its members.

Key moments:

  • Why does a law firm need a CFO (0:50)
  • Getting past the frustration of the financial aspect of running a law firm (10:15)
  • Reducing the time spent trying to manage IOLTA accounts (19:03)
  • Tips for saving your law firm’s funds and increasing it’s income(21:04)

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MEMORABLE QUOTES

Ryan Kimler

“Accounting and finance doesn’t have to be the scary part of your firm… we want to be your guide, help you out, give you a clear direction and clean financials and bring clarity around the numbers of your law firm” – Ryan Kimler

ABOUT RYAN KIMLER

Ryan Kimler, Founder of Financial Clarity

CFO and Accounting for Law Firms

Ryan Kimler is an Accountant and CFO. His passion is in helping attorneys run their law firm by the numbers to increase profitability and cash flow. He helps attorneys spend more time working on their business instead of in their business so that lawyers can get back to crushing their business instead of the other way around.

Website: https://www.financialclarityllc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankfinancialclarityllc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkimler

Blog: https://financialclarityllc.blogspot.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLyqCOvxvnnlr3_6BOGqww

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your host Ron Bockstahler runs Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week he’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. He’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our legal support staff for lawyers in Chicago.

Estate Planning: When you have a child with Special Needs! | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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Gregg Garofalo is the Founding Partner at Garofalo Law Group, he has been practicing law for 20 years with a strong focus on probate matters and estate planning. Gregg talks about when it’s right to do estate planning and what are some basic estate planning one should have outright.

Gregg also talks about estate planning if you have a special needs child, how you can maximize their benefit to give them the best care they can receive from both your estate and the government. Lastly, he talks about how estate planning must be revisited at least annually to review how it can be adjusted to changes in the family’s life, decisions, circumstances, or just life in general.

Key moments:

  • When is a good time to consider estate planning? (7:35)
  • A guardianship estate for your college kids(12:35)
  • Setting up a special needs trust (14:39)
  • Estate planning and COVID, Cryptocurrency, and other changes (22:35)

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MEMORABLE QUOTES

Greg Garafalo

“It’s never early to start planning – literally, we tell parents that when your kids turn 18, they should come in and do the basic estate plan…” – Gregg Garofalo

ABOUT GREGG GAROFALO

Gregg Garofalo, Founding Partner at Garofalo Law Group

Estate Planning

Gregg has been practicing law for the past 20 years with a strong focus on probate matters and estate planning. As a father of a daughter with special needs, he is passionate about educating families on how they can achieve their estate planning goals. As a result of Gregg’s vast experience, character and devotion to clients, the families he serves can rest assured that he will do everything he can to meet all of their expectations. Gregg is frequently appointed by the Court to serve as a Guardian ad litem in Guardianship matters. He is also routinely appointed by the Court as a Special Administrator in complex probate matters.

Gregg is an active member of the legal community, where he is serving or has served in several leadership roles within the Illinois Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association. Gregg is a past Chair of the Chicago Bar Association’s Probate Practice Committee, where he served two years as Chair. Gregg is also a past Chair of the Illinois State Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division, a member of the Trusts & Estates Council, and starting his third term as a member of the General Assembly after taking the mandatory one year off between terms.

Gregg serves as a member of the Illinois State Bar Association’s mentor program, and a speaker in the area of probate and trusts and estates.

In addition to his passion for law, Gregg works with professional and civic organizations. Gregg has worked with the Children’s Assistance Fund and the Illinois Bar Foundation chairing their annual holiday party, which has grossed over $150,000 during his ten-year involvement. Gregg is also a Past President of the Justinian Society of Lawyers, a past board member of the Italian American Political Coalition, and a board member of the Justinian Society Children’s Endowment Fund. In addition, Gregg volunteers for the Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue.

Website: www.glgfirm.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GreggGarofalo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-garofalo/

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your host Ron Bockstahler runs Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week he’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. He’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our networking events for Chicago lawyers.

Stephen Seckler: Coaching Can Make All the Difference! | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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In this episode, Stephen E. Seckler, Esq. talks about how lawyers should adopt marketing strategies that feel comfortable and how hiring a coach make a big difference in building a law practice. Steve also talks about how he coaches lawyers through career transitions.  He describes the work he is now doing with senior lawyers who are trying to decide what comes next. Steve is host of his own podcast, Counsel to Counsel. He is a lawyer who has dedicated his entire career to helping attorneys find more career satisfaction.

Key moments:

  • How young lawyers can overcome marketing challenges (3:52)
  • Marketing tips for all kinds of lawyers (15:18)
  • The importance of getting a coach and business development tips (27:44)
  • The next stage for seniors (36:54)

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MEMORABLE QUOTES

“Find a niche that you really like and enjoy, really go deep with that niche, you want to be known for something. When you’re a young lawyer, again, the focus really should be on being a great lawyer giving great client service.” – Stephen Seckler

ABOUT STEPHEN SECKLER

Stephen Seckler, President of Seckler Legal Recruiting and Coaching

Legal Recruiting and Coaching

Stephen Seckler is a lawyer with over 25 years with marketing and career counseling experience working with other attorneys. He hosts the Counsel to Counsel Podcast where he interviews leading attorneys and consultants about the legal profession and his blog Counsel to Counsel has been twice named to the ABA Journal’s Blawg 100.

Connect with Stephen Seckler:

Website: http://www.counseltocounsel.com/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephenseckler

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your host Ron Bockstahler runs Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week he’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. He’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our networking events for Chicago lawyers.

McKenna Prohov: Encouraging Clients to Think With a Legal Mindset | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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McKenna is the founder of Law x Design, a legal practice that focuses on entrepreneurs, artists and start-ups. In this episode, she talks about encouraging clients to think with a legal mindset to protect themselves from liability. She also talks about how people are all unique, and the best way to keep clients is to acknowledge that they’re all individuals and to dedicate a lot of time on networking. The mental health state of younger lawyers were also discussed and what we can do to improve it. They also talked about the current experience of women in law and what changes McKenna wants to see in the future of the business of law.

Key moments:

  • Getting clients into a legal state of mind and the “algorithm” of people – how to maintain your client-base (0:50)
  • State of the mental health of younger lawyers (11:53)
  • The current experience of women in law (17:53)
  • Lawyers as trusted business advisors (26:31)

Follow “The 1958 Lawyer” on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Sticher

MEMORABLE QUOTES

McKenna Prohov

“Getting out and making connections… you can’t put an algorithm on when you’re talking to another person so basically ‘networking, networking, networking’ is the answer and you can’t do it within the four walls of your home… reaching people is about gathering”

ABOUT MCKENNA PROHOV

McKenna is the Founder of Law by Design (Law X Design), a Chicago based legal practice that focuses on entrepreneurs, artists, and startups. She has cross-functional experience working on a variety of business initiatives primarily related to joint-venture business expansion opportunities, tech licensing and e-commerce issues. Over 2 years experience handling contract process for company’s business operations, including reviewing and drafting terms that facilitate consensus and comply with applicable regulatory frameworks. Work across departments to identify risks in contracts, data services, and consumer protection. Contracts and compliance experience handling legal and business matters in business-solutions oriented environment. Collaborative and self-directed team member in driving process for structuring, drafting, and reviewing licensing, technology, intellectual property, and non-disclosure agreements, as well as pre-litigation documents.

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-prohov-05452050/

Website: https://www.lawxdesign.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-prohov-05452050/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawxdesign_/?hl=en]

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your host Ron Bockstahler runs Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week he’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. He’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our legal support staff for lawyers in Chicago.

Attorneys: Struggling to Maintain Good Mental Health? Learn How These Law Firms Support Their Teams.

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David Kirsh

From client meetings and long work days to demanding deadlines and tense relationships with opposing counsel, it’s a well-known fact that practicing law isn’t for the faint of heart. About a decade ago, Chicago civil defense attorney Daniel Arnett was ready to leave the legal industry and become a bartender due to his “insane” stress.

According to The American Lawyer’s 2020 Midlevel Associates Survey, nearly 50% of midlevel associates have anxiety. Three in four associates also said their firms negatively affect their mental health.  

“Sole practitioners get so overwhelmed from all of the built-up pressure, and they have nowhere to go with it,” said family law attorney David Kirsh.

While larger firms may have multiple partners for support, Kirsh said that doesn’t eliminate the pressure of clients regularly turning to their attorneys for important answers.

In addition to daily stress, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and added more anxiety. Courts closed, attorneys had to work from home and depositions were given virtually.

“There’s a whole new level of stress with technology,” said insurance defense attorney Margaret Bentley of Kelley Kronenberg. She explained that it’s now harder to determine the credibility of a witness without the ability to analyze in-person body language.

And all of this built-up pressure could ultimately impact client relationships. 

“You cannot make good decisions and serve your clients if you’re fighting internally and taking things personally,” Arnett said.

Attorneys Seeking Tools to Manage Good Mental Health

Margaret Bentley

Fortunately, resources are available for lawyers and staff struggling with mental health. Kirsh volunteers his time with the Lawyers’ Assistance Program to help lawyers and law students with substance abuse, addiction and mental health issues.

Before abandoning his legal career, Arnett sought help from coaches, seminars and books and ultimately followed his dream of opening his own law firm, Arnett Law Group, LLC. The firm has since grown to seven attorneys, and Arnett places mental health at the forefront of his efforts. He invited his team members to help revise the firm’s billing process, allowed them to work on a flexible schedule and checked on them throughout the pandemic via daily Zoom meetings. He even created a “Zen Den” at the office, a special forest-themed room where his attorneys can recharge.

“The culture here is unlike any other firm that I know of,” Arnett said.

While Bentley has learned tricks to minimize her daily anxiety, such as taking breaks throughout the day and staying prioritized, she’s grateful for the resources that Kelley Kronenberg offers its attorneys. Like Arnett, Bentley’s unit leader holds weekly Zoom meetings and stays in touch with the Chicago team throughout the day, as the firm’s headquarters is based in Florida.

Attorney Mental Health Starts in the Office

Bentley said another stress-reliever is Amata Law Office Suites, Chicago’s first legal community of more than 700 attorneys and Class-A downtown offices. She has been managing Kelley Kronenberg’s Chicago office at Amata since last year. Kirsh operates his firm here as well.

When the pandemic hit, Amata scanned lawyers’ mail for 90 days and handled document preparations (free-of-charge) to help reduce attorneys’ stress of managing their practices during a worldwide health crisis. With the help of Amata, Bentley and her team members were able to continue serving the needs of their clients without interruption or delay. She said she has been very happy with the services.

Don’t let long work days and demanding deadlines run you and your practice. Call us or visit our website and take an online or in-person tour of one of our Class-A law firm office spaces. Consider joining the Amata community to learn how our business model is perfectly aligned to combat lawyers’ stress. We run the office while you run the practice.

Discover our legal support staff for lawyers in Chicago.

Geo Bellas: Forty-Years of Game-Changing Tech for Law Firms | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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His law firm’s first game-changing tech adoption was a trio of fax machines that outpaced the competition and he says AI is the next big player. But Geo Bellas – nicknamed Geo as a reference to Neo in The Matrix – hasn’t been a techie simply because of the success it’s brought his practice over the past forty years.

He says it’s also the fun of getting a “new toy.” Further proof that staying true to your passions in your legal career, and having fun, is an important aspect of long-term success.

Forty years of game-changing tech and what the future holds for the legal profession:

  • The first tech in his firm and why he adapted early (01:30)
  • A prediction of law firms’ futures (18:00)
  • Attorneys working with purpose (32:08)
  • Geo’s advice for younger attorneys looking to build storied careers (41:05)

Follow “The 1958 Lawyer” on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Legal innovation needs more than game-changing tech. It needs lawyers who change with it.

“I don’t think I ever sat there and said, ‘I got to do this, I got to go get this,’ I just wanted to get a toy. And, you know the old adage is he who dies with the most toys wins.”

“There is a movement to have a form of artificial intelligence decide small cases to eliminate the load on the courts…. The only thing is that computers haven’t learned to absorb all of the other factors…that help us make a decision. But eventually that’s going to happen and computers are going to take a lot of the work off of lawyers and lawyers are gonna have to find a way to fit into that new paradigm.”

“[Zoom] is creating the efficiency and lawyers are still adapting to it. I mean, I see lawyers, getting on…and there are still lawyers who sit there and have to have either their grandchildren, or somebody help them open up the Zoom window so they can participate in a webinar by Zoom. But that will change. There was a time where lawyers didn’t know how to use a fax machine. But they got [it], somehow they figured that out.”

GEORGE “GEO” BELLAS, An Early Adopter of Game-Changing Tech for Law Firms

Geo Bellas

Chicago Business Litigation Lawyer who has used technology in litigation for over 40 years. Geo’s firm serves as a trusted business advisor to business owners and has been promoting the use of technology in the practice for over 35 years.

www.bellas-wachowski.com
Blog: www.businessattorneychicago.com

Geo’s Social Media
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/georgebellas/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/george.s.bellas
Twitter: www.twitter.com/GeoBellas

Keep Reading About Game-Changing Tech in Law

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your hosts Ron Bockstahler and Kirsten Mayfield run Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week they’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. They’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our legal support staff for lawyers in Chicago.

Bill Belmont: This Investigative Firm Knows How to Help Attorneys. It was Built by One. | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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Bill Belmont was a trial attorney, investigative attorney, worked in law enforcement, and nearly became an FBI agent before starting his investigative firm. He jokes he founded The Belmont Group with one goal in mind: to make more money so that his wife wasn’t relegated to the ‘hillbilly’ lifestyle he enjoyed.

Bill has considerable experience investigating civil and criminal matters in a wide range of industries including finance, fashion, entertainment and real estate. And he puts client relationships first, even over the money he claims he started this firm to earn. Jokes aside, helping people in tight situations is the real reason he started this work.

Life at an investigative firm isn’t all Ray Donovan. But it is fun.

Why Bill enjoys the latest stage in his ever-morphing career:

  • “Well, like every Jewish kid on Long Island. I wanted to be a cop…” (01:22)
  • How team sports help attorneys conquer their jobs (13:20)
  • Matrimonial cases. Ray Donovan. Catfishing situations. And more. (17:05)
  • Life is about the way you frame it (31:48)

Follow “The 1958 Lawyer” on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

More than an investigative firm founder, Bill still loves the legal profession.

“I’m really a life coach when I think about it, right? My job is to motivate people to do the right thing. That’s what I do. I bring motivation to people so they can see the light and avoid the more complicated aspects to [their situation].”

“I always try to tell young people in the profession, both lawyers and investigators – I go back to my old law school and I try to mentor as much as I can – never chase the dollar. Chase the relationship.”

“I love the legal profession. I can’t stand when people talk about ‘Oh, I’m a recovering attorney.’ No buddy, that’s your problem. The legal profession is an amazing profession. I have friends I grew up with and who I went to law school who are doing a thousand different jobs: I’m an investigator, they’re in finance, some have their own businesses. But the one thing that’s great about the law is that thread runs through everything you do. There’s nothing you do in life, professionally, that doesn’t have some aspect of the law to it. So it’s a great, great activity.”

BILL BELMONT, INVESTIGATIVE ATTORNEY & FOUNDER OF THE BELMONT GROUP INVESTIGATIVE FIRM

Bill Belmont

Bill has over 30 years of experience in the investigation, due diligence, and security field. In addition to having worked as a law enforcement officer and trial attorney, he served as Director of Operations for the New York office of Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations.

He has overseen the management of hundreds of corporate investigations involving fraud, workplace misconduct, brand protection and theft of trade secrets. Additionally, he has managed hundreds of investigations for national and international law firms and has developed and implemented due diligence protocols for dozens of financial institutions to ensure the integrity of their investments. He provides clients with pre-incident consulting, including vulnerability surveys, threat assessments and crisis management plans and procedures. Furthermore, Bill provides security consulting services to clients for personal and private events.

Bill oversees the implementation of increased security measures for many corporate clients. He serves as a member of crisis management teams, assisting with contingency plans for critical occurrences, such as terrorist attacks, natural disasters, computer network penetrations, business interruptions and incidents of workplace violence.

www.thebelmontgrp.com
Bill’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williambelmont/

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your hosts Ron Bockstahler and Kirsten Mayfield run Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week they’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. They’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

Discover our legal support staff for lawyers in Chicago.

The Struggle for Diversity in Law Firms is Real. These Legal Experts Share Their Stories and Strides

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Leslie Davis

What People Aren’t Addressing About Diversity in Law Firms

The statistics are harsh. According to the ABA National Lawyer Population Survey, lawyers of color represented just 14% of all lawyers in 2020. And that percentage has grown less than 3% over the past decade. 

While the legal industry has further emphasized diversity and inclusion, it’s still branded as one of the least diverse professions. Specifically, only 5% of lawyers are Black; 5% are Hispanic; 2% are Asian; and 0.4% are Native American. 

“It makes me recognize that there’s a lot of work to be done,” said Leslie Davis, CEO of the National Association of Minority & Women Owned Law Firms (NAMWOLF).

The industry may need an overhaul when it comes to diversity, but resources are available. Founded in 2001, NAMWOLF works to promote diversity within the legal profession by advancing successful relationships among its roughly 200 member firms. In 2010, NAMWOLF launched the Inclusion Initiative, an effort that aims to increase corporations’ retention of minority- and women-owned law firms. By 2014, 30 corporations were involved in the initiative and spent $212 million with diverse firms.

Davis joined the NAMWOLF community earlier this month after spending more than 25 years as a lawyer and litigator in the Chicago area. In 2014, she was honored at the Chicago POW! Awards for showing “game-changing leadership in business and their communities.” Davis represented the 5% of Black U.S. lawyers as well as another bleak statistic. As a partner, she represented one of the less than 2% of Black partners in Big Law.

“It wasn’t easy, but I was fortunate and blessed to have great mentors, sponsors and people who cared about my trajectory,” Davis said.

Some attorneys have cited a lack of mentorship and cultural isolation as reasons why they left their firms. Davis said she always tried to make herself available to lawyers of color, acknowledging that she was often one of few Black women in her positions who could provide the insight and guidance that fellow Black lawyers needed.

Why Promoting Diversity in Law Firms Matters

For entertainment law attorney Odell Mitchell III of Thirdinline Legal LLC, incorporating diverse voices into law firms is very important. During his time as a solo practitioner, he said clients have expressed comfort in working with him, and some have admitted that he’s the first young, Black lawyer to whom they have spoken.

“The level of representation that I get to provide directly for people, especially young Black men, is something I don’t take lightly,” Mitchell III said. “People appreciate me being who I am.”

Family law and criminal defense attorney Chelsey Robinson of Owens & Robinson can also speak firsthand on the importance of representation. 

“I have had situations where opposing counsel referred to me as ‘sweetie’ or ‘honey,’” she said. “I find that very degrading. It shows that we need more diversity training. Because a lot of times, we’re not aware of biases.”

While training is important, Circuit Court of Cook County Judge Erika Orr thinks the answer is simpler than implementing various initiatives.

“The only way you get diversity and inclusion is to have a diverse and inclusive workplace,” she said. “The key is to recruit from everywhere, not just from select schools.”

Before becoming an Illinois judge, Orr operated her own firm from Amata Law Office Suites, Chicago’s first legal community of more than 700 attorneys and six Class-A downtown offices. Mitchell III and Robinson call Amata home as well. 

Amata’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Amata offers premier legal support, including live receptionists and an experienced paralegal team. Orr, Mitchell III and Robinson commend Amata for filling these roles with diverse individuals and for highlighting diverse voices through its various communication channels. Amata’s CEO, Ron Bockstahler, also sits on the board of directors of the Justice Renewal Initiative, a program geared toward helping young men and women transition out of the criminal justice system.

“When you have groups like Amata, who interact with lawyers and law firms on a daily basis and see the need for change, … it’s impactful when they decide to get in the fight and make a difference too,” Davis said.

During her time as NAMWOLF CEO, Davis wants to see the statistics improve. She hopes to provide more opportunities for minority- and women-owned law firms to work with corporations as well as public and private companies.

“It’s a great responsibility and honor to be doing work on a daily basis that’s been so important and meaningful to me throughout my whole career.”

At Amata, we know there’s more work to be done to empower lawyers of color. Call us or visit our website and take an online or in-person tour of one of our six Class-A law firm office spaces and consider joining the Amata community to learn how we can help. Or keep the conversation going by contacting us at [email protected].

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Lori Levin: From Gov. Prosecution Work to Running a Solo Practice | THE 1958 LAWYER Podcast

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We’re going to use the phrase ‘from this to that’ a lot because Criminal Defense attorney Lori Levin’s experience is expansive. She started as a prosecutor in the state’s attorney’s office and in 2009 decided to go private and open her own firm. Running a solo practice meant learning lessons about how to operate both as an attorney and a business owner.

Now Lori calls her criminal defense solo work the most fulfilling stage in her career to date, and she sees the positive changes the courts are making for her clients.

Lori’s amazing experiences in her career and insights from running a solo practice in Criminal Defense:

  • From Prosecution to creating a new court in Illinois (03:49)
  • Running a solo practice: From business acumen to mental health (20:53)
  • State of the criminal system today (31:25)
  • What Lori Levin wants to see changed in the business of law (38:33)

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Learning your worth as a solo practice attorney…even when you’re already an experienced lawyer.

“I was in the planning group to help start the first felony mental health court, diversion court, in Cook County, at 26th Street – it’s now spread out throughout the county and throughout the state…. It was really amazing how, the help with drugs…the people who had co-occurring disorders wound up getting on the right path and how their lives were turned around. And these were folks to 30 years ago, might have gotten locked up or the criminal justice system might have thrown them away. And now they wind up getting jobs getting help. And it really was rewarding.”

“I was lucky that I was an experienced lawyer, [that] when I opened up my own practice that I knew how to practice law. So, then the issue was learning how to operate a business…. I had another experienced defense attorney pulled me aside and say ‘Lori, we’re in a business and you need to bill,’ and the first time that I quoted somebody what I was worth and they said yes it was refreshing.”

“I’ve been doing this for a long time. And I think I’ve learned from that that I need to put a premium on my mental health. I think that when I was just prosecuting murder cases it got to me in a way that I didn’t appreciate until I stopped prosecuting murder cases…. I try to make sure that I’m grounded, that I do things that will take me away from the law, at times, and I’m very lucky that I have a really good support network.”

LORI LEVIN, CRIMINAL DEFENSE SOLO PRACTICE ATTORNEY

Lori G. Levin is a forceful advocate for people facing charges in Criminal and Juvenile Court as well as those being investigated by the Department of Children and Family Services and/or appealing DCFS findings. After a long career in public service, Lori opened her private practice in 2009. She has successfully defended persons in Criminal and Juvenile Court as well as in DCFS administrative appeals, not only in the Circuit Court of Cook County but also in the collar counties.

Lori spent many years as a prosecutor and supervisor with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, positions that have given her substantial insight into the inner workings of the criminal justice system and valuable knowledge to shape her clients’ defense tactics.  The Governor of Illinois appointed Lori to be the Executive Director of the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, an agency dedicated to improving the Illinois criminal justice system. Today, as a Chicago and North Shore criminal defense attorney, Lori Levin passionately fights to secure justice for her clients.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/criminaldefense1/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chicagodefense
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoriLevin

Have comments, questions, or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

“The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” still defines the business of law…
It’s time for a change.

If you’re a lawyer, you’re familiar with the ABA article “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. That article was the start of the billable hour for law firms…And the last major change to the business of law, 70+ years ago now. Well, it’s past time for another change.

This podcast is all about bucking the status quo of the business of law. Your hosts Ron Bockstahler and Kirsten Mayfield run Amata Law Office Suites, providing law firms an alternative to the traditional fixed-cost business model that places unwanted stress on attorneys to work long hours that often-times lead to burn out, broken relationships and in many cases substance abuse. Each week they’ll discuss alternatives to the 12 hours days, endless rotation of clerks and paralegals, and the expensive offices leased to impress clients who rarely show up in person anymore. They’ll interview successful lawyers who are doing law differently, and finding a work-life balance while still running a successful firm.

Do you want to find a better way to run your law firm? It’s time for the next big change in the business of law, and you’ll get it here on The 1958 Lawyer.

More episodes of The 1958 Lawyer podcast

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