https://www.henningmediation.com/index.php

(770) 955-2252

Mediation has become a cornerstone of the legal system, resolving cases efficiently while avoiding costly and time-consuming trials. In a recent episode of The Attorney Post, Judge Randy Rich from Henning Mediation and Arbitration Services shared insights on the growing role of mediation, the evolution of jury verdicts, and the future of dispute resolution.

Judge Rich’s legal career spans years as a state and superior court judge in Georgia, overseeing civil, criminal, and business law cases. His transition to mediation reflects a broader legal shift—99% of cases now settle through mediation rather than going to trial.

Despite its effectiveness, mediation presents challenges. High-stakes cases, such as large financial disputes and personal injury claims, require careful negotiation and patience. Additionally, post-COVID, jury verdicts have shifted, with jurors awarding larger settlements and showing increased skepticism toward police testimony. These changes influence how parties approach mediation.

Judge Rich also discussed the impact of technology on dispute resolution. Virtual mediation is now common, but many professionals still prefer face-to-face negotiations. Moreover, the demand for qualified mediators is rising, particularly in complex business and family law disputes.

Reflecting on his career, Judge Rich acknowledged the difficult path to becoming a judge, having applied for positions numerous times before securing his first role. His perseverance highlights the competitive nature of judicial appointments.

As mediation continues to reshape the legal system, professionals like Judge Rich play a key role in ensuring fair and efficient dispute resolution. Henning Mediation remains at the forefront of this movement, setting the standard for high-quality arbitration and mediation services.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC
• Andropology

https://www.legalsolutionsgrp.com/

305 503 2808

Marty Davis, founder of Legal Solutions Group, recently joined The Attorney Post to discuss the legal profession, business challenges, and the evolving role of technology in law. With nearly four decades of experience, he has guided individuals and businesses through legal complexities, from workers' compensation to real estate transactions.

Adapting to Change: Legal Practice in a Digital World

Davis' firm once operated five offices but consolidated into one, cutting costs while maintaining efficiency. He supports remote work for its convenience but recognizes its limitations—especially in mentorship and firm culture. Virtual meetings have expanded client accessibility, but in-person interactions remain crucial for professional development.

Real Estate and Business Legal Challenges

Operating in Florida, Davis warns about fraudulent schemes in the real estate market, emphasizing the importance of legal protection for buyers. He also advises businesses at different stages of growth—helping startups with foundational stability and guiding mid-sized companies through expansion while minimizing legal risks.

The Impact of AI on Law

Davis has seen legal technology evolve significantly. While AI tools like ChatGPT can assist with legal research, he warns against over-reliance, noting that AI lacks the critical reasoning skills essential for case analysis. The speed of modern digital communication also raises concerns, as rushed decisions and misunderstandings can create legal complications.

Lessons from Experience and Mentorship

Having faced legal disputes from a failed business partnership, Davis stresses the need for strong legal agreements. He actively mentors entrepreneurs, helping them scale their businesses while avoiding common pitfalls.

Davis' insights underscore the importance of adaptability in the legal field. From real estate law to AI-driven challenges, his experience offers valuable lessons for legal professionals and business owners navigating today's ever-changing landscape.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC
• Andropology

https://kpalawyers.ca/

905 965 6263

Jacob Murad, a seasoned attorney and business strategist, joined The Attorney Post to discuss his career in law, business acquisitions, and mentorship. As the leader of KPA Lawyers, he integrates legal services with financial and business solutions to better serve clients.

Expanding the Legal Industry’s Role

Murad believes law firms should function as comprehensive professional service firms, offering accounting, insurance, and financial planning alongside legal representation. His extensive experience in corporate law includes buying and selling law firms, focusing on firms with longevity, strong branding, and financial stability.

Guiding Young Lawyers

Murad is passionate about mentoring young attorneys, offering bar exam tutoring and business guidance. He highlights a gap in legal education—many new lawyers struggle to translate their skills into profitable careers. He emphasizes the importance of business development knowledge to succeed in private practice.

Navigating Remote Work Challenges

While remote work has changed legal practice, Murad expresses concerns about its impact on training young lawyers. To maintain professional growth and firm culture, he implemented a hybrid work model requiring in-office collaboration.

Jacob Murad’s insights highlight the evolving role of law firms in today’s business landscape. His strategic approach to legal practice and dedication to mentorship offer valuable lessons for attorneys at all stages of their careers.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC
• Andropology

https://shakedlaw.com/

(786) 458-8660

In an episode of The Attorney Post, Sagi Shaked, founder of Shaked Law, shared his insights on personal injury law, his commitment to mentoring young attorneys, and his experience handling high-stakes cases. With over 25 years in the field, Shaked has secured multi-million-dollar settlements for accident victims, particularly in trucking litigation, brain injury cases, and wrongful death claims.

A Passion for Advocacy and Justice

Shaked's law firm specializes in catastrophic injury cases, including trucking and motorcycle accidents. Recognized as one of the top 100 trial lawyers in the nation, he has successfully fought for clients against powerful insurance companies. His influence extends beyond his firm—he is a past president of the Southern Trial Lawyers Association and a board-certified trial advocate.

Educating the Next Generation of Attorneys

Shaked believes in the power of mentorship and regularly teaches trial advocacy nationwide. His focus on brain injury and wrongful death cases ensures that attorneys are well-equipped to represent victims in complex litigation. By sharing his knowledge, he helps shape the future of personal injury law.

Handling Brain Injury Cases and Emotional Challenges

Brain injury litigation is a growing focus in personal injury law. Shaked explained how insurance companies often dispute the severity of these injuries, making strong medical evidence essential. His expertise has made him a go-to attorney for these cases, with many referrals coming from other law firms.

He also highlighted the emotional toll of handling wrongful death claims. He shared a case where a mother lost her life in an accident, leaving two children behind. The defense offered $4 million, but Shaked’s team fought for a fair settlement, ultimately securing over $10 million.

COVID-19’s Impact on Legal Practices

The pandemic changed how legal professionals operate. Shaked noted that before COVID-19, all depositions were in-person, but virtual platforms like Zoom have become essential. While convenient, he expressed concerns about the effectiveness of remote trials, particularly in jury selection and case presentation.

Winning High-Stakes Cases

Shaked has successfully litigated cases resulting in nine-figure settlements. He stressed the importance of understanding jury biases, highlighting that defense experts are often hired to downplay injuries. His ability to counter these tactics has helped his clients receive the compensation they deserve.

Sagi Shaked’s discussion on The Attorney Post showcased his dedication to justice, education, and high-stakes litigation. His leadership in personal injury law continues to make a lasting impact, ensuring that accident victims receive the fair representation they deserve.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC
• Andropology

https://wasingerlawoffice.com/

407-308-0991

Attorney Matt Wasinger recently joined The Attorney Post to discuss estate planning and real estate law, offering valuable insights on avoiding common legal mistakes. His conversation highlighted key strategies for protecting assets and ensuring smooth real estate transactions.

Estate Planning: Securing the Future

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy—it’s essential for anyone who wants to ensure their assets are distributed correctly. Wasinger explained that many people fail to create comprehensive plans, leading to legal disputes and prolonged probate processes.

Trusts, wills, and advance directives play a crucial role in protecting both assets and loved ones. Wasinger stressed the importance of keeping these documents updated, as outdated estate plans can create complications and unintended consequences.

Common Legal Issues in Real Estate Transactions

Real estate transactions can be full of hidden legal challenges. Wasinger discussed issues such as title disputes, undisclosed property defects, and contract loopholes that can lead to financial loss. He emphasized the need for thorough due diligence and legal oversight to prevent these costly mistakes.

Landlord-tenant laws were another important topic. Wasinger pointed out that poorly written lease agreements often lead to disputes. A legally sound lease can help prevent conflicts over rent payments, property maintenance, and tenant rights.

Reflections on Legal Practice and Career Growth

Beyond estate planning and real estate, Wasinger shared insights into his legal career, highlighting the value of mentorship and continuous learning. He encouraged aspiring lawyers to embrace both successes and failures as learning experiences.

His appearance on The Attorney Post reinforced the importance of legal preparedness in real estate and estate planning. Whether buying property or securing financial assets for future generations, Wasinger’s advice underscored the need for proper legal guidance.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC

https://youtu.be/hSdyb-Gd8Bc

https://grundymdconsulting.com/

(650) 649-5352 | (513) 993-3045

Integrating Medical Knowledge into Legal Strategy

Dr. David Grundy, a medical-legal consultant with over 20 years of experience, recently appeared on The Attorney Post to discuss how medical expertise plays a vital role in legal cases. With a strong background in emergency and forensic medicine, as well as peer review, Dr. Grundy provides attorneys with the insights they need to navigate complex medical evidence.

The Work of Grundy MD Consulting

As the founder of Grundy MD Consulting, Dr. Grundy offers pre-litigation medical opinions, case de-risking services, medical damages assessments, and expert testimony.

Diverse Experience Strengthening Legal Cases

Before launching his consulting firm, Dr. Grundy served as an associate professor of emergency medicine and worked internationally, gaining valuable experience that now informs his legal consulting work. His ability to interpret medical records and identify critical medical connections has proven invaluable in personal injury and medical malpractice litigation.

Medical-Legal Consulting Focus Areas

Dr. Grundy primarily works on personal injury cases, which make up 90% of his practice, while medical malpractice accounts for the remaining 10%. His ability to identify causation, assess future medical costs, and clarify complex medical findings allows attorneys to build stronger cases and secure better outcomes.

The Shift to Medical-Legal Consulting

In 2017, Dr. Grundy participated in a CME course led by Dr. Armin Feldman, a leader in the medical-legal consulting field. This course introduced him to the potential of medical consulting for attorneys, leading him to transition from clinical medicine to consulting full-time. Over the past three years, he has refined his approach, providing attorneys with clear, data-driven medical analyses.

Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the pandemic, Dr. Grundy worked at Seton Medical Center, treating a large and diverse patient population. The hospital also handled cases from San Quentin correctional facility, presenting additional medical and logistical challenges. Despite the difficulties, the healthcare team remained dedicated, providing critical care throughout the crisis.

Post-Pandemic Changes in Communication and Social Norms

Dr. Grundy has observed noticeable changes in social interactions since the pandemic, with conversations becoming less predictable and more fragmented. These shifts have affected both personal and professional interactions, altering how individuals engage in legal and medical discussions.

Clarifying the Role of Consulting Physicians in Legal Cases

With the vast majority of medical malpractice cases settling before trial, consulting physicians are instrumental in the pre-litigation phase. However, many attorneys struggle to differentiate between consulting physicians and expert witnesses. Dr. Grundy stresses the need for greater awareness of these distinctions to improve collaboration and case outcomes.

A Passion for Helping People Through Medical-Legal Consulting

Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Grundy is deeply committed to assisting attorneys and their clients. He recognizes societal challenges, including the presence of sociopathic tendencies in certain individuals, and approaches his work with a focus on ethical, effective medical consultation.

Dr. Grundy’s expertise in emergency and forensic medicine has positioned him as a trusted resource for attorneys navigating complex medical cases. His consulting work continues to bridge the gap between medicine and law, helping legal professionals achieve better results for their clients.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC

https://youtu.be/IPpyg13Y5pk

https://bendelllawfirm.com/

208-981-0555

Jim Bendell’s legal career, featured in this episode of The Attorney Post, offers a rich narrative of over 30 years of experience. Licensed in Idaho and Washington State, Jim has built his career on personal injury law, criminal defense, and business litigation, representing both insurance companies and plaintiffs. His career began with a focus on defending insurance clients in cases involving car accidents, workers' compensation, and medical malpractice. However, a shift came when Jim chose to represent injured plaintiffs, marking a pivotal change in his career.

One of the most impactful aspects of Jim’s work has been representing minors who were victims of sexual molestation. These cases not only present immense legal challenges but also require deep emotional sensitivity. Jim discusses the long-term psychological and psychiatric effects such trauma has on young victims and their families, underlining the importance of providing both legal and emotional support in such cases.

Navigating the Pandemic’s Impact on Legal Practices

Like many industries, the legal profession was not immune to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Jim Bendell's work continued largely uninterrupted, with the exception of a two-week shutdown. One of the most significant adjustments he had to make was conducting a three-day trial entirely over Zoom. While Jim found the trial itself to be manageable, he raised concerns about the limitations of selecting juries via virtual platforms. He stresses the importance of direct human interaction in reading non-verbal cues, which is vital in jury selection.

Highlighting Legal Successes

Jim recounts some of the significant milestones in his career, including winning a $1.5 million judgment against the state’s social health services. The case involved the mistreatment of children in foster care, and Jim was relentless in ensuring the children’s rights were upheld. The case raised important concerns about religious freedom, as Jim noted that Jehovah’s Witness children were denied placement with relatives who shared their faith, in violation of their rights.

The legal battle also revealed disturbing details about the children’s living conditions, as they were forced to labor on a semi-hobby farm under foster parents who offered them little care. Jim’s advocacy led to a fair settlement for the children, making this one of the standout successes in his career.

Absurd Legal Cases and Financial Hurdles

Not all legal cases are as serious, as Jim shares an amusing story about a client who wanted to sue the manufacturer of Barbie dolls. The client was upset over changes in the doll’s design, highlighting the quirky and unexpected nature of some legal requests.

Despite the humor, Jim emphasizes the financial realities that attorneys face. Filing a case often requires significant upfront costs, such as paying for court reporters and medical records, with no guarantee of immediate compensation. Jim recalls one case in particular where he spent $50,000 in legal expenses. Fortunately, he was able to recover the costs, but this story underscores the financial risks that come with practicing law.

Advice for New Lawyers

Jim Bendell also takes a moment to offer advice to young lawyers entering the profession. He reflects on the difficulty of separating personal life from the emotional toll of legal work. For attorneys, especially those dealing with emotionally charged cases, the line between professional and personal often blurs. Developing resilience and finding a balance between work and personal life is essential for long-term success in law.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC

https://youtu.be/Rph8LED5bUM

https://maps.app.goo.gl/sbC8P9o9MYDsvoAt7

https://brownrudnick.com/

281.849.9824

Lauren Varnado has carved a name for herself as an influential energy attorney, navigating some of the most complex legal challenges in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. Initially a managing partner at Michelman & Robinson during the recording of The Attorney Post, Lauren has since transitioned to Brown Rudnick LLP. As a partner in their Litigation & Dispute Resolution Practice Group, she continues to specialize in high-stakes disputes involving the energy sector, focusing on complex contractual issues and climate change litigation.

During the podcast, Lauren delved into the intricacies of her energy litigation practice. She described her niche as a lawyer focused on upstream and midstream operations in the oil and gas sector, where she handles everything from disputes over leases to the intricacies of gas transportation contracts. Her cases often involve high-value legal conflicts between operators and disputes over royalties—cases that require both industry knowledge and courtroom expertise.

Lauren shared that while she is an industry lawyer first, her role as a trial lawyer has also become integral to her practice. Her passion for legal advocacy shines through her ability to dive deep into the nuances of energy contracts and business disputes, making her a trusted legal advisor for large-scale energy companies.

Lauren’s career trajectory was not always set in the energy sector. Initially drawn to criminal law, she once considered a career as a prosecutor. However, as her law school studies progressed, Lauren’s interests shifted toward more complex legal fields, eventually landing her in energy litigation. This shift was pivotal, as she now occupies a prominent space in one of the most legally challenging industries.

One of the standout moments from the podcast was Lauren recounting a harrowing experience in which a judge threatened her with a firearm during a private hearing. This shocking display of judicial misconduct did not deter Lauren; instead, she fought back, exposing the judge’s inappropriate behavior and ultimately ensuring his resignation and loss of his law license. This moment exemplifies Lauren’s courage and dedication to upholding justice, even when faced with extraordinary intimidation.

In addition to her work on oil and gas disputes, Lauren has increasingly focused on climate-related litigation. She spoke about the rise of lawsuits filed by youth climate groups, which are bringing constitutional claims against fossil fuel companies. These cases, along with new SEC climate disclosure rules, are likely to drive an increase in litigation involving energy companies and their compliance with environmental regulations.

Lauren is particularly keen on helping her clients navigate these emerging trends in climate change litigation, drawing on her vast experience in the energy industry. At Brown Rudnick, Lauren is positioned to take on a wider range of cases, thanks to the firm’s global litigation capabilities and multidisciplinary expertise. She continues to lead the charge in energy disputes while also being at the forefront of legal battles involving climate change and regulatory compliance.

Her fearless advocacy for her clients, combined with her expertise in handling highly complex litigation, makes Lauren Varnado a key player in the legal world. As she takes on her new role at Brown Rudnick, she is well-positioned to continue shaping the future of energy litigation and climate-related legal action.

Lauren’s career exemplifies the resilience and determination needed to succeed in today’s legal landscape. With her move to Brown Rudnick, her influence will only continue to grow, making her a name to watch in the field of energy litigation and beyond.

Sponsors:

• RankWith.News
• The Attorney Post
• National ERC

https://youtu.be/gob5k8jhACw