BASF’s Paralegal Section was launched in January and, to date, there are more than 80 members. I am proud to say that one of the first firms to support this newly created section was my employer, Keker & Van Nest.…
Legal Writing Tip: Write Like a Reporter
Editor’s note: We are excited to welcome attorney/researcher/writer Savannah Blackwell as she takes over the Legal Writing Tips Column. Write for the court like a good news reporter writes for her readers. A reporter attempts to answer all the…
Estate Planning Tips for You and Your Clients
Expanding Protections Against Financial Elder Abuse There are plenty of financial predators out there trying to take advantage of vulnerable people – and many of them see senior citizens with diminishing cognitive functioning and valuable assets as easy prey. For…
Does the Death of Robin Williams Signal the Death of His Celebrity Rights?
Williams’ kids and wife continue the fight in San Francisco Superior Court In life, the late Robin Williams was incredibly protective over the commercial use of his name, image and likeness. He rarely, if ever, promoted products or appeared in…
How to Build Your Practice Using Social Media, Blogging and Having a Life Outside of Your Practice
The Barristers Club recently hosted Phoenix-based attorney/ ABA Legal Rebel/ blogger/ author Ruth Carter at a seminar to inspire attorneys to think outside of the box in terms of finding their practice niche and beyond. Carter discussed her own off-the-beaten-path to…
I've Been Hacked. Have I Been Damaged?
Pleading computer fraud damages Computer fraud has been a hot topic in the news with seemingly new lawsuits everyday. Nevertheless, plaintiffs seem to have difficulty pleading damages. Although there is some nuance, pleading damages is a fairly straightforward process as…
Mock Trial Coach Looks Back at Great Year
Coaching high schoolers feels a lot like making popcorn: you add heat and agitation, then pray that everything “pops” in the end. Despite months of editing scripts, running objection drills, and repeating “slow down and speak up” like a shamanistic…
Walk, Run or Pedal Your Way to Raise Funds for Underserved on June 6
Join us on Saturday, June 6 at Crissy Field for the 8th annual Bike-a-Thon/Walk-a-Thon for the Justice & Diversity Center (JDC) of The Bar Association of San Francisco. Cyclists and walkers will raise funds to support JDC’s legal services programs,…
To 1099 or Not to 1099: Proper Reporting of Client Settlements
With tax season nearly upon us, many lawyers are now asking themselves (and their CPAs) whether they have accurately reported funds received on a client’s behalf. This issue is particularly relevant to attorneys who earn their fees on a contingency…
Mediation as a Mirror: Using the Process to Help Clients Find Clarity
Sometimes, parties will seek mediation in search of clarity. The stated reason for scheduling a session may be very different from the desired result. In these cases, the mediator’s role should be one of gentle probing and guidance to help…
Engage Your Summer Associates in Pro Bono Service With the Justice & Diversity Center
Registration is open for the Justice & Diversity Center’s (JDC) Homeless Advocacy Project’s (HAP) Summer Associates in Public Service Program. The program enables firms to provide crucial legal services to low-income and homeless San Francisco residents, while summer associates learn…
The Barristers Club Open House is April 28
The Barristers Club invites law students and attorneys to its annual Open House on April 28. The Open House is a unique opportunity for new lawyers to learn how to get involved and meet the leaders of the club. Each…