Your attorney should be your most trusted confidante. This relationship was built into and recognized by our Constitution. This privileged relationship is protected under laws throughout legal system. As Lincoln said “a lawyer’s time and advice are his stock in trade.” We have all heard the quote from Francis Bacon “knowledge is power.” This has been recognized for thousands of years. It is not a matter if you trust the other person’s lawyer; it is a matter of your trust in your lawyer. For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to the one who possesses it. Ecclesiastes 7:12
Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God (James 1:19-20). Listening skills are most important in dealing with clients. We listen then advise. Listening sometimes takes multiple meetings, document reviews and good assessment.
What business model works best? This should be a concern whether you are the CEO, sole entrepreneur, management or even working in the stock room. I have been fortunate enough to have been exposed to many models of success and several economic cycles. I recall a Xerox 1970s ad campaign saying “We heard there was going to be a recession. We decided not to participate.” Having a positive attitude during tough times helps one prevail, but what is more important? The models that I have personally seen through my counsel as an attorney have one central commonality. The leader surrounded himself with trusted advisors and key employees. These leaders remained loyal to these peoples and each had a defined role. Once a revenue model that was created worked it was duplicated continually. Take a look at the highest period of revenue. Who was involved and what were you doing? Hopefully the cold is over and spring has arrived. This model works whether you are part of the team or the team leader. This would even apply at home. Who are the most trusted people around you? Who has your back?
Managing legal costs should never be equated with finding the cheapest car. Finding the right attorney starts now.
Stephen Fuller is the managing partner of Fuller Sloan LLC and has practiced in business litigation and consulting for 37 years and has over 25 years representation of the founder of one of the largest sit-down casual restaurants in America. For more information, send Mr. Fuller an email.