April 13, 2021 at 11:47 AM
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Picture this: A few weeks into a difficult matter, your toughest client tells you, “
Well, I guess you really do know how to think like a lawyer.” You feel a momentary glow, because there’s at least a chance it’s a compliment, even if a grudging one. But then they add, “Yeah, and you write like a lawyer, too.” Ouch. You thought your writing was just fine: precise, logical and, even better, free of jargon. What’s the problem?
It’s not that you write badly, but that lawyers face a tougher task than most writers ever confront. Although your subject matter can be complex and technical, your readers are impatient, often irascible, and occasionally hostile. Some writers can simplify their content to keep their readers happy. You do not have that luxury. Some writers can expect their readers to follow along patiently until an analysis or story reaches its end. You cannot.
March 9, 2021 at 3:17 PM
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For smaller law firms, having a thoughtful business development strategy can make a world of difference, especially in a pandemic-challenged market. Deborah Farone, who wrote the book on law firm business development (
What are some business development challenges – and opportunities – for smaller firms in the current market?
DF: Business development and marketing can be a challenge for firms of any size with the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. Small firms, in particular, often lack a strong business development infrastructure, and this can be the biggest hurdle. In that case, individual lawyers need to be even more proactive.
February 9, 2021 at 3:22 PM
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From the way you meet clients to the way you do research, everything’s more virtual in today’s pandemic climate. Practising Law Institute (PLI), known as the industry’s established provider of continuing legal education, also provides authoritative, practical guidance in an online format that makes finding information easy – even if your “office” is in your dining room.
Alexa Robertson, PLI’s Senior Director of Legal Information Services, answers some questions about PLI’s publishing offerings, including PLI PLUS, PLI’s online legal research system.
Many lawyers will know PLI for CLE. How would you describe PLI Press and the PLUS platform to those unfamiliar with this side of your organization?
January 22, 2021 at 10:12 AM
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Marijuana and hemp present compelling business opportunities for your clients. But navigating through the haze of regulations and business models can be confusing – and risky.
: Cannabis, Hemp and CBD Regulation, from PLI Press, advises attorneys interested in practicing in this area. Co-authors James T. O’Reilly, Professor of Public Health Policy at the College of Medicine of the University of Cincinnati and author of leading references on food and drug law, and Edgar J. Asebey, a founding partner of Keller Asebey Life Science Law and a life sciences attorney with over 20 years of experience, spoke about the treatise.
January 12, 2021 at 3:32 PM
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For new attorneys, it’s no secret that the first few weeks and months on the job can be overwhelming. You aren’t expected to be an expert in all areas of law, but you are expected to learn quickly, communicate effectively, and act ethically and professionally. Getting into the groove of law firm life can be particularly challenging when working remotely, as newbies miss out on opportunities to learn from senior colleagues in person.
All of this makes the Bridge-the-Gap (BTG) programs offered by Practising Law Institute (PLI) especially useful this year. These two live webcasts, focusing on ethics and skills for New York attorneys, cover topics relevant to all practice areas and settings, helping new practitioners recognize tricky ethical situations, sharpen their communications, practice negotiations, develop confidence in their pro bono toolkit, and more. Speakers include an array of established experts, including law firm partners and othe