Creating a Better Initial Client Interview
Initial client interviews are important for a lot of reasons. Here are two ways you can create a better initial interview no matter which side of the desk you are on. Understand the Purpose of the Interview Understanding the why of something can greatly influence the what and the how. As for initial client interviews, “[t]he purpose … is to obtain as much information in respect to the situation presented by the client … [and] to sell the attorney’s services.” By moving from an unstructured and reactive interview to one that is pointed …
Microsoft Word Hack: Auto Populating Repeated Words in a Document
Using document properties in Microsoft Word will allow you to set fields throughout the document that when you fill in one, they all will be filled in with the same word(s). Here is what you do: Step 1 If you haven’t already, turn on the Developer Tab . You can learn how to do that HERE . Step 2 Open a form pleading in Microsoft Word (or a pleading you would like to convert into a form). I’ve used this on petitions for the typical cases I take and discovery documents. Anything I can do to reduce the time spent on discovery …
Grandparent “Keys to the Courthouse” in Idaho
When assisting grandparents with concerns about the custody and wellbeing of their grandchildren, there are more options in Idaho other than seeking a guardianship. As explained by the Idaho Supreme Court in Overholser v. Overholser , 164 Idaho 503, 432 P.3d 52 (2018) , grandparents in Idaho hold several “keys to the courthouse” in such situations: "Magic Keys" by cogdogblog is licensed under CC0 1.0 The De Facto Custodian Act under Idaho Code § 32-1701 In certain situations, a grandparent can be deemed a de facto cus…
Leadership: Young and In Charge (for some reason)
I have been very fortunate in my legal career to have some big responsibilities at a relatively young age. Some of this has absolutely been due to being in the right place at the right time. So much of success seems to be timing and taking advantage of opportunities as they present themselves. But there are several things I can point to as being important to what I’ve been able to accomplish. "Head of Youth" is licensed under CC BY 3.0. Say yes (when it won't overload you) I was recently driving through Grand Teton National Park…
What Can a Lawyer Give for Christmas? Withheld Judgment
A withheld judgment is a tool used by judges to incentivize compliance with probation terms and to allow someone to move on with his or her life after satisfactorily dealing with a mistake. As described by legalbeagle.com : A withheld judgment can allow the defendant to avoid a having a criminal conviction on his record. At the time of sentencing, the judge informs the defendant of the terms he must meet, which can include a probationary period, restitution fees paid to the court and victim, and rarely, jail time. The judge does not, however, …
