Litigate to litigate? No.

As a litigator, my job isn’t to litigate every matter that comes my way. It’s to help clients find a path that fits their risk tolerance, business objectives, and appetite for uncertainty--every step of the way.

When a client comes to me with a contract dispute on the horizon, my first step is always a candid assessment.

I start by reviewing the contract. The goal? Identify the key terms, deadlines, and obligations that are actually in play.

Next, I identify the missing information. Like an investigative reporter, I identify who the stakeholders are, what my client's goals are, and what information (documents or witnesses) might shed additional light on where we are and where we're going.

Then, I'm honest. I explain the strengths, weaknesses, and likely cost of reaching the goal.

→ Where does my client have leverage?
→ Where are we exposed?

I lay out the realistic options without sugarcoating tough calls or hiding behind legalese (something I’ve found clients truly appreciate).

My goal is to give the client a clear, actionable roadmap--an assessment of the options and risks, so they can make a business decision, not just a legal one.

Sometimes that means early settlement, sometimes it means gearing up for a fight, and sometimes it means finding a creative off-ramp.

And: we revisit this assessment at every new phase of the dispute, because leverage and risk appetite change every step of the way.

I aim to empower my clients. To help them find the right path for them (at all stages).

We are a team, and it is a relationship.

This type of honest, candid assessment is critical to building trust. And it has an added benefit: increasing the likelihood of repeat work and referrals to other businesses.

🔥✌🏻♥️

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are solely my own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Husch Blackwell LLP or any other organization. Examples are generalized and do not reflect current client matters or firm positions.