The Effective Lawyer

In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO Jack Zinda and trial attorney Max Massey sit down for an honest conversation about the evolving realities of building a legal career and a sustainable law practice. From early job struggles to case strategy and managing the pressure of high-stakes litigation, Jack and Max trade stories, lessons, and the systems that help them keep improving. Whether you're managing your first caseload or leading a growing firm, this episode offers raw insights into the habits and mindsets that drive long-term success in personal injury law.Topics Covered:    Time Management & Work-Life Balance    Early Career Struggles & Career Growth    Diversification vs. Specialization    Dealing with Insurance Companies & Stowers Demands    Case Management Systems & Checklists    Assessing Case Value & Finding Recovery Sources    Lifelong Learning & Building a Support NetworkKey TakeawaysTime Management & Work-Life BalanceJack shares how segmenting time between work, family, and personal health helped him move from late-night burnout to better productivity. The conversation touches on prioritizing outcomes over hours and having the right support system.Early Career Struggles & Career GrowthMax opens up about his early challenges breaking into the field, including juggling multiple roles at a small firm. His journey underscores the importance of persistence, humility, and saying “yes” to opportunity.Diversification vs. SpecializationJack and Max reflect on experimenting with different practice areas early on — and how focusing on personal injury law brought clarity, consistency, and better results for clients.Dealing with Insurance Companies & Stowers DemandsThey break down the role of Stowers demands, how to verify information from adjusters, and why being proactive with documentation can make or break a claim.Case Management Systems & ChecklistsJack discusses treating every case like it's going to trial — and how detailed checklists, playbooks, and case reviews help create consistent outcomes.Assessing Case Value & Finding Recovery SourcesThe conversation includes insights on evaluating damages, controlling litigation costs, and navigating post-judgment collection when assets are limited.Lifelong Learning & Building a Support NetworkJack emphasizes the importance of mentorship, communities like TTLA, and staying curious — while still developing your own systems and principles over time.

In this episode of The Effective Lawyer, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda answers listener-submitted questions about building a law firm that runs on systems—not chaos.If you're constantly putting out fires, working long hours, and struggling to grow your firm, Jack offers practical strategies to bring clarity, structure, and intentional leadership to your practice. He walks through his weekly planning system, explains how to create an “ideal week,” and shares tools for better delegation and follow-up.Whether you're a solo attorney or managing a growing team, this episode offers real-world advice to help you take back control of your time and build a scalable firm.In This Episode:    How systems create efficiency, scalability, and work-life balance    Jack's weekly planning and review process    Building an “ideal week” for energy and productivity    Strategies for delegation and consistent follow-up    The value of weekly reflection for continuous improvementContact Jack Zinda:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

In this episode of The Effective Lawyer, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, answers your listener questions. Discussed in this Episode:Self-managing law firmReferral pipelineClient referrals & reviews Saying no to bad casesManaging cash flowFinancial mistakesStaying motivatedBiggest regretSelf-Managing Law Firm: How do you create a self-managing law firm when you feel like you have to be involved in everything?Break down your tasks: What do you like doing vs. what you don't?Hand off the stuff you hate: Slowly delegate to employees, part-timers, or contractors.Start small: Hire an admin if you hate e-filing and paying bills.Figure out your worth: Put a dollar value on your time to see if you're doing tasks someone else should.Referral Pipeline: How do you get more referrals from other attorneys?Set goals: How many referrals do you want? Where do they currently come from?Go where the people are: Social media, email, speaking gigs, networking events.Have a plan: Measure your success before the actual referral.Networking is key: Go to events, introduce yourself, and get cards.Follow up: Email people you meet, invite them for lunch, and keep their info.Be consistent: Do this regularly to build a network.Client Referrals & Reviews: How do you get past clients to refer and leave positive reviews?Do good work: Seriously, be a good lawyer.Care about clients: It makes a huge difference.Get personal: Learn about their life and bring it up in conversations.First-name basis: Makes things feel friendly.Appointments only: Focus on their case without distractions.Sell your work: Tell them everything you've done on their case.Consistent contact: One-business-day rule for responses, 30-day updates.Remind them you exist: Social media, emails, cards.Ask for referrals: Don't be shy!Saying No to Bad Cases: How to avoid cases that drain resources?Set your standards: What's a "good" vs "bad" case for your firm?Value threshold: Have a minimum value for cases you take.Client behavior: Don't tolerate violent or abusive clients.Be upfront: Explain your process and investigation stage from the start.Refer out or reject: If a case isn't worth it, refer it to another firm or decline.Please don't blame the client: Frame it as the circumstances, not them.Managing Cash Flow: How do you handle cash flow when waiting for big settlements?Plan for delays: Build cash reserves (at least 2 months of expenses).Case volume: Have enough cases so you're not relying on one big one.Don't count your chickens: Don't spend money until it's in hand.Be aggressive in getting funds: Track and follow up on settlements.Financial Mistakes: What are the biggest money mistakes made by personal injury law firms?Shady marketing: Be careful of expensive companies that don't deliver.Expensive rent: Don't overspend on office space too soon.Hiring issues: Don't hire/fire too quickly, and don't underpay/overpay.No budget: Have a budget and understand your finances.Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated with stressful cases/clients?Exercise: It helps clear your head!Take breaks: Get out of the office, do something fun.Take care of yourself: Don't absorb too much stress.Client management: Have strategies for demanding clients (homework, associates).Biggest Regret: What would Jack Zinda change about building his law firm?Focus on bigger cases sooner.Better vetting of hires (he had some crazy stories about bad hires!).You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda teams up again with seasoned trial lawyer Max Massey to answer more of your top listener questions. This episode dives into key strategies for winning trials, building a successful law firm, and hiring the right legal talent. Whether you're a personal injury attorney, law firm owner, or aspiring trial lawyer, you'll find valuable, actionable insights in this episode.  Winning a Big Trial - The Little Things That Matter :  Deep case preparation strategies  Monthly case review best practices  Identifying and preparing key witnesses  Effectively presenting non-economic damages Credibility of Non-Economic Witnesses:  Build layered witness credibility  Vet and prepare non-economic witnesses  Anticipate challenges during cross-examination  Hiring the Right Law Student or New Attorney :  Communication and client connection skills  Grit, competitiveness, and problem-solving ability  Research and legal reasoning for new attorneys Identifying Candidates with the “It” Factor :  How to recognize persistence and initiative  What to look for in cover letters and resumes  The importance of a strong work ethic  Scaling a Law Firm: From Solo to Success :  Building a financial and cash flow plan  Smart, strategic hiring decisions  Tracking key law firm metrics for growth  Work-Life Balance for Law Firm Leaders :  Time management and delegation strategies  Protecting your calendar with key meetings  Avoiding diminishing returns through work-life balance  Starting Your Own Law Firm: The “Why” and the How: Defining your motivation and vision  Building a solid financial and operational plan  Marketing and client acquisition strategies  

In this episode of The Effective Lawyer, Jack Zinda dives into three key topics that impact law firm growth, efficiency, and leadership. Host Jack Zinda answers listener questions on the best books for personal and professional development, the role of AI in modern law practice, and what "superpower" sets successful law firms apart. Packed with insights from years of experience, this episode offers practical takeaways for lawyers looking to scale their firms and sharpen their skills.  Discussed in This Episode: Essential Books & Learning Resources for Lawyers The E-Myth by Michael Gerber – A foundational book for understanding law firm management and scaling. The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker – Key insights on productivity and decision-making. The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss – Practical strategies on delegation and efficiency. Getting Things Done by David Allen – A framework for reducing stress and improving task management. David Ball on Damages – Trial strategy essentials. Ongoing CLEs and jurisdiction-specific training to stay ahead in legal practice. The importance of always reading a business book, an advocacy book, and a tactical resource to continuously improve. AI & Legal Tech: Streamlining Law Firm Operations The evolving role of AI in intake, case management, and marketing. Experimenting with AI-driven case summarization for improved efficiency. Using AI for content generation, legal research, and internal workflow automation. Best practices for AI integration, including compliance with ethical and data privacy regulations. Encouraging team-wide AI adoption to boost productivity and leverage emerging technologies. What Is a Law Firm's Superpower? The defining trait is empathy – The ability to deeply understand clients, opponents, and decision-makers. Understanding the real-life impact of injuries on clients beyond just legal damages. Empathizing with insurance adjusters and defense attorneys to negotiate more effectively. Recognizing what motivates judges and tailoring trial strategies accordingly. The power of emotional intelligence in case strategy, client relations, and firm culture.  Connect with Us: Have a question for Jack? jack@zindalaw.com 512-246-2224 

SummaryIn part two of this Q&A series, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda answers your questions about trial vs. Settlement, budgeting & legal myths.Discussed in this Episode:Trial vs. settlement strategyBudgeting for growthBiggest legal mythTrial vs. Settlement Strategy“How do you decide when to push for trial versus taking a strong settlement offer?” -  Most offers never leave the table, so don't be afraid that the money will be reduced if you choose to go to trial. Be realistic and ask yourself if the initial offer is as much or more than a jury would award to your client. Would that amount of money make a meaningful difference in your client's life? If going to trial is something the client wants, make sure to explain the risks involved and additional case expenses that can be incurred. Budgeting for Growth“What percentage of my revenue should be reinvested into marketing and operations?”  - “First, you have to know where you're going if you're going to get there.” Jack lays out how Zinda Law makes marketing decisions and how you can decide what's best for you. If you're unsure how to make the numbers work, don't hesitate to ask someone or hire a professional to lay the map out for you. Biggest Legal Myth“What's the biggest misconception people have about personal injury law?”  - “What we do is easy.” If it were easy, everyone would do it. That's what makes personal injury lawyers so important. “What does working with clients in a personal injury case mean?” Jack talks about psychodramas and their importance to understanding the complexities of your client's life. “How much money do personal injury lawyers make?” Just because you see large numbers on billboards doesn't mean that that money gets paid out. A plaintiff lawyer can get a large verdict, but no actual dollar value is exchanged if the defendant can't pay it. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

In part one of a three episode series, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda answers your questions about managing your law firm. Discussed in this Episode:Scaling a firmFirm CultureLeadership skillsScaling a Firm“I've hit a plateau with my firm's growth. What strategies do you recommend to scale beyond the 7-figure mark?” -  The first question you need to ask yourself is “what number am I trying to get to? There are dozens of ways to scale a law firm but if you don't have a firm number or end goal, you won't be able to build a map to get there. Firm Culture“How do I build a culture where my team is as invested in the firm's success as I am?” - The short answer is: you can't. No one will be as invested as the founder and that is because of a myriad of reasons including the financial commitments and pressures to succeed. That being said, there are still ways to improve the level to which your team cares. Some questions to ask yourself are: What is it about your firm that makes you special? Do your employees enjoy their work? What are their struggles? Jack's final word of advice: “Don't have jerks at your company”.Leadership Skills“What's the #1 leadership skill that helped you grow your firm?” - Learning to communicate complicated messages in a simple way is the most effective way to keep your team motivated and moving forward. Before you can even do that you need to go back to the beginning and make sure that you have your map laid out and ready to be communicated. Resources:The E-Myth by Michael E. GerberYou can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda discusses ways to maximize the value of your cases.Discussed in this Episode:Put enough resources on the casePhoto evidenceImages from the medical recordsMaster the medical terminology Slow down the timelineYou have to tell the client's storyPut Enough Resources on the CaseHow do you tell the story if you don't put the work in? Prioritizing time to understand nuances in the case can pay big dividends rather than rushing through things.Photo EvidenceWe humans are visual creatures, and because of that, a good photo can make a world of difference than just testimony or medical records.Images from the Medical RecordsWhen you get medical records, you also get MRI, CAT scans, etc. As we said above, photo evidence is crucial when swaying a jury's opinion on the accident. Master the Medical TerminologyThe defense will often try to downplay a diagnosis by labeling it something it isn't. If you don't have the knowledge to understand what that means, you might get blindsided and receive a smaller outcome. Slow Down the TimelineTo explain the suffering that your client faced or is still facing, it can be essential to get down to the minutia. If the accident ended in death, explain the pain and suffering that the person would have felt during their last moments. For those with life-altering injuries, break down what their day-to-day looks like and give them.You Have to Tell the Client's StoryMake it as personal as possible. Who is affected by the loss of this person? What is the quality of life for those who miss or rely on their loved ones? Painting an accurate picture of what life looks like now will further humanize the situation and give the jury more to latch on to.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

In this episode of The Effective Lawyer, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda is joined by Associate Attorney Max Massey as they discuss Max's unique journey from TV reporter to attorney. Discussed in this Episode:How being on television can help you in the courtroomMax's transition into lawFinding your motivationHow to excel as a reporter and lawyerAdvantages of being a professional before becoming a lawyerHow Being on Television Can Help You in the CourtroomMax talks about the importance of being good at public speaking and how being a TV reporter helped him gain confidence. As a reporter, you often speak with people who are having some of the worst days of their lives. These experiences can help you understand how to talk with people empathetically and give you tools to explain their stories before ever entering a courtroom.Sink or SwimWhen starting out in any career with a public speaking element, sometimes it's better to be put out there before you are 100% ready than to wait until the perfect moment and allow your nerves to get the better of you. Max and Jack both recount stories of times when they were thrown into situations and had to sink or swim.Max's Transition into LawAs Max's television reporter career progressed, he often found himself wondering why they didn't have someone on the team with a law degree. They would often have to find guest experts to weigh in on issues and Max thought that it would be easier if someone on the staff could be that expert. Eventually, he was faced with the choice between climbing the ladder to become an anchor or commit to law school.Finding Your MotivationBalancing school and a job can be overwhelming, so how did Max do it? Make a pre-itemized list, create a contract with yourself, and hold yourself accountable. Max excelled in school and was a standout on the negotiations team.How to Excel as a Reporter and Lawyer: SimplicityMax lays out how he simplifies the message he's trying to convey. You may only have 60-90 seconds on the news to explain the story, so challenging yourself to simplify the story as much as possible while still getting the point across is an excellent practice.Advantages of Being a Professional Before Becoming a LawyerHaving a foundation of work professionalism is so important for the transition into law. It's one thing to understand law, but the soft skills that are gained by being in a professional environment are invaluable. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda goes over his 7 keys to a strong wrongful death case.Discussed in this Episode:Identify who is an eligible clientConflict of interestDiscuss settlement amountIdentify sources of recoveryLook at subrogation Release language Plan aheadIdentify Who is an Eligible ClientIt's really important to know who can and cannot be considered eligible to bring a case. These are almost always direct family members outside of siblings. This can differ from state to state, so always check this before moving forward.Conflict of InterestEstablishing who you should represent and how to divide the funds is a crucial step in avoiding many of the headaches that come with these kinds of issues. You can often use common sense to figure out the best path forward, I.E., not representing both a stepmother and an adult child who doesn't get along.Discuss Settlement AmountBefore you get too far along in the process, it's important to have the dollar amount set. Once there's real money on the table, it can be much more difficult to have these conversations. Identify Sources of RecoveryDon't trust the insurance company, business, or anyone involved with the defense regarding insurance policies. Oftentimes, you'll need to pry to get them to reveal sources of recovery that they wouldn't have done on their own.Look at Subrogation Representing the client incorrectly (like how “Paul” represented the estate instead of an individual person) can completely change how and where the money is distributed. Look at the downstream effects and try to imagine what the outcome could be. Release Language Make sure to tie everything up in regards to who can make a claim to the money on the off chance that an unknown parent, child, or family member who was previously undisclosed makes themselves known. Plan AheadIt might sound obvious, but doing your due diligence before you begin your case will make all of the difference in the outcome. Utilize any and all information you have access to, including other lawyers.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda is joined by Lead Trial Lawyer Drew Bell. They discuss common errors from both sides of the courtroom and the lessons they've learned.Discussed in this Episode:Avoid overreachPellet issuesAdvocacy mistakesTelling the storyAsking for moneyAttacking witnessesDiscover battlesAvoid OverreachDrew talks about the concept of “playing it vanilla” when you're a plaintiff lawyer and how that differs from being a defender. As a defender, you're often tasked with finding ways to elicit emotional responses from the jury in a way that masks or avoids the reason for the case. The defender may look for something the plaintiff lawyer presents and may attempt to spin it. Pellet IssuesAs a defender it could be in your best interest to allow the plaintiff lawyer to make mistakes. Allowing the plaintiff to submit evidence that won't help their case or even hurts their case gives you more opportunity to poke holes. Bringing in a pellet council can be a great way to ensure that problems don't slip through the cracks.Advocacy Mistakes“Jury selection is Opposite Day” for defendants. Instead of trying to find jurors who will be favorable to your case, you'll instead want to weed out those who will judge your case most harshly. Some preconditioning can be fine, but it's much more important to get rid of the jurors who are going to kill your case. Telling the StoryOne of the biggest mistakes plaintiff lawyers can make is spending too much time on the story. While it's important to present enough evidence in your case, you have to make sure that you aren't getting lost in the narrative and cause the jury to check out. Jack suggests watching true crime documentaries and watch how they concisely tell the story.Asking for MoneyIf you are able to, you should test your number with an audience. A big mistake can be asking for more than what the jury thinks the case is worth. It's also worth noting that revealing the number too early or too late can cause the defense to attack that number or shock the jury by the number. Getting an expert witness who doesn't have any direct connection to damages awarded can be effective as well. Attacking the WitnessesDon't be a jerk when it comes to attacking witnesses. Just because something was “bad” doesn't mean that it will win over the jury. Jack provides an example of a defense attorney who attacked the plaintiff's mother and how badly it backfired.  Discovery BattlesDrew talks about the balance between having a “scorched earth” amount of evidence vs. running your trial too efficiently and the issues that can result from each side.   You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Summary  In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about PTSD and how identifying it can affect personal injury claims.  Discussed in this Episode:  What does a PTSD case look like? How to identify a PTSD case? Challenges in PTSD cases Mental anguish cases from state to state How does this increase the value of the case?   What Does a PTSD Case Look Like?  PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental condition that is usually caused by an intense and negative event. This can be something as small as getting stuck in an elevator or as big as watching someone die. This disorder often presents itself as a stress and anxiety feedback loop that appears when the person is placed in a similar situation as the one that caused the PTSD. There are even instances where the expression of PTSD symptoms can be worse than the original incident itself.   How to Identify a PTSD Case?  Start talking with family members or friends and see if they've noticed a change in the client. Look through their medical records and see if they've been seeing a therapist that specializes in traumatic events and get their opinion on what the ramifications of it are.  Challenges in PTSD Cases  Don't assume that everyone who has been through something traumatic has PTSD. Trying to push a narrative that isn't there can only do harm in getting your client the verdict they need. You also need to take a lot of time with the client. If you don't really know them, it's going to be a lot harder to make a credible claim. Remember to be empathetic and search for the answers if you feel like something is below the surface. Like a person whose most recent traumatic event is triggered from something that happened to them as a child.   Mental Anguish from State to State  Mental health cases can be subjective based on your state and their own laws. Do remember that when you're opening a person's mental health records, that information can be used against your client. So it's important to get a holistic view of their mental health before claiming PTSD. Write down your element of harm and compare it with others from your state if you're unsure what would be admissible.    Increasing the Value of the Case  “Why is this a big deal?”. In order for the jury to really understand the magnitude of the damages, you need to be able to tell your client's story, you need to be able to tell them why it's a big deal. If someone no longer feels safe to drive and you're able to relate that story to the jury in a way that garners empathy, that can add to the dollar amount of a case's worth.    You can reach Jack at:  jack@zindalaw.com 512-246-2224   

In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about measuring your law firm and determining what matters.Discussed in this Episode:What is a Scoreboard?Why does it matter?What are the best practices?Mistakes law firms makeWhat is a Scoreboard?A scoreboard is simply a collection of data that provides a rounded view of the law firm and how it's functioning as a whole, shared with a large group of people. This can include fees collected, demands sent, and other things. It can create what Jack calls “fame and shame”. It celebrates those who are doing well and it makes it known who is struggling or slacking.Why Does it Matter?Jack recounts a story of early in his career when the firm he was at was failing to get fees. He took a large amount of data and found out that certain lawyers were more productive than others and looked at where those certain attorneys were succeeding. By creating a data set for him to look at he was able to meet with the attorneys who were struggling, found their weaknesses and was able to coach them up to a higher standard, thus bringing the success of the entire firm up. That only lasted for a few months though and after a while Jack realized that performance would always improve when given the information, but then slump again. The solution? Keep that data available and in the open at all times.What are the Best Practices?Don't just use data for data's sake. Find out what data actually matters and motivates your team. Once you have the relevant data, use a side-by-side graph to show what their expectations are to give them a visual example of what they need to improve on. Then delegate to managers or assistants to continually pull data as new information comes in. Some people may find it disconcerting to find out that they are low on the scoreboard, so having steps in place to make sure that they get the resources they need to succeed is important. Mistakes Law Firms MakeYou don't need to purchase expensive or fancy software. Programs can give you too many options and KPIs that can make things overwhelming and unnecessary. Things should be simple and clean. Don't assume that people can decipher what the numbers mean. Color coding performance is much easier for a group to understand than getting them up to speed on why and how the numbers are what they are. Remember to announce this ahead of time so people don't think that they're in trouble.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda gives his tips and key insights on ski injury cases.Discussed in this Episode:Ski resort incidents and immunity Personal Injury claimsEstablishing liabilityWho pays out?Ski Resort Incidents and ImmunityThe first type of ski injury case is one where the resort itself is liable. This could include negligible employees or mechanical errors like with a ski lift. These types of cases can be very difficult to get to court. Because of the nature of the activity and how important ski resorts can be to local tourism, they are more protected than your average business or corporation.  Personal Injury ClaimsAnother type of ski injury case is one where another skier injures your client while on the slopes. These injuries can be very serious and even result in death. This could include intoxication, not paying attention to signage, or just goofing off. Oftentimes, the ski resorts will be very helpful when you let them know that you're not pursuing them for liability.  Establishing LiabilityYou must be able to prove liability without the client's testimony, and there are a few ways to do this. Eyewitness testimony including skiers who may have GoPro footage can be very helpful. The ski resort may also be helpful when you let them know that you're not pursuing them for liability and may grant you access to their camera footage.Who Pays Out?A general liability clause in their homeowner's insurance is often where you need to look when attempting to find a source of recovery. Unless they are a very high wage earner, it can be almost impossible to recover enough to satisfy the client's medical and/or lifestyle adjustment needs.You can reach Jack at:jz@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Summary  In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda answers questions from the listeners about how AI is being used to transform the way we operate our practice.  Discussed in this Episode:  How have you seen AI impact the industry so far? Can AI change the way firms interact with clients? Can AI help in settlement negotiations? The pitfalls of AI    How Have You Seen AI Impact the Industry so far?  Jack talks about how AI technology is not quite at the place to disrupt the industry, but that it's on its way in the coming months and years. He then talks about how AI can be helpful for work that paralegals are doing, taking deposition notes, helping with scheduling and other routine tasks.    Can AI Change the Way Firms Interact with Clients?  Jack warns about the use of AI for online interactions as it can feel impersonal and make the client lose trust before the person-to-person connection can begin. Where it can be helpful is case summaries, email updates and medical follow-ups.    Can AI Help in Settlement Negotiations?  One thing AI is great for is data mining. Being able to cull data from the internet to find out what a similar case is paying out, would be a very effective tool and potentially save 10s if not 100s of hours gathering that data manually. Using it for focus groups to predict what an outcome could be is another way that AI could play an important role in whether or not you take a case.   The Pitfalls of AI  When using a new tool it's important to look at the legal ramifications as well. Are confidentiality agreements violated by using these tools? Is it possible that there are ethical concerns as well? Make sure you spend plenty of time researching before you go ahead and use your clients as guinea pigs.     You can reach Jack at:  jack@zindalaw.com 512-246-2224  

Summary  In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda answers questions from the listeners about tips and tools to improve efficiency and time management.   Discussed in this Episode:  How to structure your day for maximize productivity The biggest time management challenge as a Lawyer & CEO Finding your priorities  Technology tools for time management   How to Structure Your Day for Maximum Productivity  Jack talks about what his days used to look like before reading the book Getting Things Done. He talks about how scheduling specific tasks to be completed during specific times is a great way to ensure that you're not scatterbrained or scrambling to stay on top of your to-do list during the day.    The Biggest Time Management Challenge as a Lawyer & CEO  The hardest transition can be when you jump from a small to mid-sized firm. Jack talks about how things changed when they went from a five person to a twenty person team. Having good management and training systems in place are the best way to ensure smooth transitions as the business grows.   Finding Your Priorities    Next is to look at your own personal responsibilities. Lay them out on a white board and be sure to include your personal life as well. Being a good partner and parent comes along with a work/life balance. Find things that you can delegate to other members of your team and restrict yourself to working on the things that only YOU can do.   Technology Tools for Time Management  Jack talks about how technology can sometimes be a red herring as these tools can end up causing more headaches than not. Relying on A.I. can prove problematic as the technology is not foolproof yet. He talks about tools that do work including: Asana for project management and Evernote for note taking.   You can reach Jack at:  jack@zindalaw.com 512-246-2224  

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about common child injury case mistakes and how to avoid them. Discussed in this Episode:You cannot treat a child case like an adult caseCreating a case on behalf of a childWho has the right to pursue the claim?Best practices for money distributionYou Cannot Treat a Child Case like an Adult CaseThere are a few key things that make a child case different. Their recovery, damages, who can bring the claim on their behalf, levels of approval and money allocation are all different from an adult case. It can be very easy to make mistakes which can affect your client's long-term recovery and future.Creating a Case on Behalf of a ChildIn the situation where a parent dies and leaves a child with no support, it's very important to establish a Guardian Ad Litum to protect the child from other family members who may want to claim their rights as a guardian only due to the financial implications.  Who has the Right to Pursue the Claim?Just because a person claims to be a parent or guardian does not mean that it's true. It's important that you do the initial leg work to prove that the person does have the legal right to bring the claim on behalf of the child. Do not take your client's word for it when they talk about personal matters including adoption or divorce.  Best Practices for Money DistributionUnless it's a very unique case, the court will not allow you to give the money to the parents. Instead, it's much more common to put the money into a structured settlement, the registry of the court (although the interest rate is much too low for a long-term payout) or into a trust. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder Jack Zinda discusses essential tips and tactics for handling accidental shooting cases.Discussed in this Episode:What qualifies as an accidental shooting?Who's going to pay?How to approach these casesProving your caseWhat Qualifies as an Accidental Shooting?As the name suggests, an accidental shooting is one where there was no intent to harm an individual. We are looking for a negligent act or someone putting their firearm in a place where it could be used for a negligent act. Who's Going to Pay?Homeowners' or renters' insurance is usually where we go when attempting to award damages. As stated above, the person or persons liable may not have been directly involved in the shooting, but if they are found liable, their insurance would be used for damages. How to Approach These CasesDo not make your case about whether or not guns should or shouldn't be available to the public. Start from a place of proper gun safety which will be much more agreeable to a jury that may own and use guns. Even NRA policies and gun experts can be used to prove your case.  Proving Your CaseProving intent is crucial to the success of your case. This includes eyewitness testimony, ring camera or other camera footage, and even a liability expert. Background information on the defendant will also be important as a clean criminal record and credible character witnesses can further prove your claim that the incident was accidental. You can reach Jack at:jz@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about identifying sources of recovery for personal injury cases.Discussed in this Episode:Identify the source of recoveryWhat is an “affidavit of no other insurance”?“Hiding the ball”Identify the Source of RecoveryLooking at things like the insurance agency, the people who are directly involved with the ownership or drive the car and if the car serves a business purpose. Create a checklist to make sure that every area has been investigated before moving forward. What is an “affidavit of no other insurance”?Once the source of recovery has been determined, this can be a resource to ensure that your findings are accurate. Look into bank loans or deeds to find additional information.  “Hiding the Ball”Sometimes the defendant might attempt to hide valuable source of recovery information to ensure a lower payout. You don't want to give up on a case just because there's no known insurance. Moving forward with a lawsuit can cause them to reveal information.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about liability cases and the best practices for evaluating them. Discussed in this Episode:What is the upside?Assuming it goes to trialYour theory of the caseThe odds of successWhat is the Upside?In order to prevent ourselves from wasting valuable time and money, we need to evaluate each case step by step. Let's start with the most obvious question: what is the upside? Before spending any time researching the case, you've got to make sure that there's value there. Assume it goes to TrialThough it may look simple on the outside, assuming that each case will go all the way to trial will save you from losing time and money on the backend. By setting worst-case expectations, you will often find that you're rarely put in a situation that isn't profitable.  Your Theory of the CaseLook at the case and imagine your best outcome. Of the things you don't know, what do you want them to be? By narrowing your focus to the few pieces of information you'd require to take on the case, it will be easier to evaluate.  The Odds of SuccessTake all of the data that you've collected and make a determination based on similar cases you or other colleagues have had. Calculating the odds or percentage of success should give you a really good idea of whether the case is worth taking or not.  You can reach Jack at:jz@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about becoming great at anything by continuing education.Discussed in this Episode:Break things downThe classroom portionReal world rehearsalTweak the processBreak Things DownInstead of focusing on the end goal, break things down into smaller pieces. Your goal  may be to become the best trial lawyer possible, but if you get too wrapped up in the big picture, it can become overwhelming and hamper your ability to learn effectively. The Classroom PortionWhile having real-world experience is a must, it's best to start with your own research. Jack talks about how he listens to CLEs while working out and how education connected with a physical activity can be very beneficial. This is also a great time to begin to work through how you would use this knowledge in the real world. Either by rehearsing it with yourself or with a mentor.  Real World Rehearsal This is a great time to begin to work through how you would use this knowledge in the real world. Either by rehearsing it with yourself or with a mentor. This can also be a great time to watch someone else do it and reflect upon the differences between the two.  Tweak the ProcessNow is the time to review everything you've learned, seen and worked on and make it your own. Never be afraid to adjust as new information becomes available and be flexible to stay on top.You can reach Jack at:jz@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about identifying and choosing the right cases for your practice.Discussed in this Episode:The initial phone callThe screening processThe pillars of evaluationBe personableHow to say noWhen you say yesThe next level of investigationAppointment onlyThe Initial Phone CallWhen a potential client calls your firm, it may seem obvious to take the call. Yes, this may end up being a client, but more often than not, this call will end up being a case you won't want to take. Creating a screening process will save your practice a ton of time and make your initial calls much more effective. The Screening ProcessHaving the proper phone script and intake form goes a long way to help find the right client. Enabling your receptionist to use both effectively will take a lot of work off your table. The Pillars of Evaluation The primary benchmarks for Zinda Law are these three pillars. First, who is liable? Second, what are the damages? And third, what is the source of recovery? All three pillars must be inquired about before moving forward on a case.  Be PersonableOnce you've determined that it's time to have your initial meeting with the client, make sure to treat them like a person and not just a lawyer and client relationship. Personability and empathy go a long way to make them feel comfortable, confident in your abilities and an overall sense of trust. If this step makes you feel uncomfortable, now is a great time to practice with colleagues or use a recorder to evaluate yourself. How to Say NoIf after the initial meeting you find yourself declining the client, it's still important to make sure that it's handled with empathy. Leaving on good terms can net you work in the future if the client feels like you truly care about their situation. When You Say YesJust because you say yes, doesn't mean that they will. Now is the time to pull out all the stops to show them why you're the A+ rockstar lawyer who will get the job done. This is the time to talk about your accomplishments and awards. Do be warned though, this is still an area you should practice to avoid coming off as ignorant. The Next Level of InvestigationThis is the time when we take our three pillars of evaluation and dig a lot deeper. This includes verifying the claims of the client, getting documents and making sure that the truth is one that will result in damages awarded for your client. Appointment OnlyIt's important to stay in consistent contact with your clients during the early stages of the case. The best way to do this is by scheduling your appointments with them. Being prepared for a call with the case notes in front of you will allow you and your client the ability to get right to the point and make these calls effective. You can reach Jack at:jz@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about his personal strategy for staying sane while running a firm and practicing law. Discussed in this Episode:Don't outwork the problemAreas of focusWhat am I trying to achieve?Mapping out your timeEstablishing hard edgesDon't Outwork the ProblemThis is the most common and obvious way to keep yourself from burning out or cutting corners. You may be able to work 80 hour weeks, but eventually it's going to catch up with you in the form of mistakes, exhaustion and tension with family and friends.Areas of FocusYou have a finite amount of time to devote to your work. Once you've established a healthy work-life balance, you'll then need to find ways to be more effective and efficient. Mapping out your areas of focus will go a long way to ensuring keeping yourself on track. What Am I Trying to Achieve?Look at the long-term goals of your practice and make sure that they line up with how your practice is currently being run. Is there a clear path? Or do you need to tweak your role to better suit the business?   Mapping Out Your TimeBeyond the areas of focus, it's also important to map out the rest of your time to ensure that you feel satisfied with your role. For example, Jack loves to practice law and tries to make sure that is working on law-based tasks a third of the time. Establishing Hard EdgesOnce you've mapped everything out, now you have to follow through. Scheduling everything each week, including time when you're just working alone is important. If you fail to adhere to the schedule, the system will fail. Finally, look back each month and inventory your work. What areas need to be tweaked?Links:Getting Things DoneThe E MythYou can reach Jack at:jz@zindalaw.com 512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks with Partner and Lead Trial Lawyer Neil Solomon about a last-minute wrongful death case they took and the process of resolving it. Discussed in this Episode: The facts Gathering information Unique elements to this case Building the case Allocating the funds Putting in the effort The FactsNeil talks about how the case came to them and why they decided to take it on despite the fact that they have a rule not to take on a client with less than 6 months before the statute of limitations runs out.  Gathering InformationOnce they decided to take on the case they began pulling reports, building a family tree and establishing a case file. At this point they had to decide who they will be representing and made the decision to only represent one family member instead of a group of them.  Unique Elements to this CaseNo case is cut and dry, but this case was certainly not so. There was conflicting testimony, unclear photo evidence and even some potential fault of the deceased. Because there was a national chain delivery service involved, the question became: how did this corporation handle the incident? Building the CaseAfter enough witness testimony and testimony from the driver herself, they were able to surmise that there was both negligence and careless behavior from both the establishment and driver. It quickly became apparent that there were many elements at play that all contributed to this accident. Allocating the FundsOnce the case had been resolved, it was important to know where the funds would be going. In this case, there were children that needed funds allocated to them. By understanding the family tree up front, you can make sure that everything is signed off on and the awarded party gets proper distribution. Putting in the EffortA big reason why this case was successful was due to the physical hours put into it at the beginning. When dealing with a limited window of time, you must be willing to put in more effort and be creative in your approach.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about finding the right attorneys to your firmDiscussed in this Episode: What type of attorneys do I need? Create a scorecard Finding ideal candidates The hiring process Screening, testing & Interviewing What Type of Attorneys Do I Need?This might seem obvious, but understanding the different roles your attorneys play in your practice is important when hiring. This can include how many years of experience they have, what type of law they practice and how they fit in your team structure. Create a ScorecardNext we'll need to take all of the information we gathered above and turn that into a scorecard that we can present to potential hires. Giving the attorneys a chance to select their skills from 1-5 will make it much easier during the hiring process. Finding Ideal CandidatesDo some research on your own and find ideal clients through LinkedIn or the ABA. They might not be available to hire, but you can use their resume as a guide when comparing potential hires. Another element is regular recruiting. Create a database of potential candidates to pull from when it's time to hire someone.  The Hiring ProcessNow you'll want to post the job. Of course you should post the job in the traditional places like LinkedIn, but it's also very beneficial to post it to your website and use word-of-mouth within the practice. Oftentimes a friend or former colleague who has already been vetted can make for an easier transition. Whether it be the rate, bonus or other compensation, it's important not to under compensate your potential employee. “You're not going to attract A talent with C compensation”. Screening, Testing & InterviewingBreaking the interview process into a few different encounters can save a lot of time when dealing with the wrong potential hire. Instead of a 90 minute interview, start with a short 15 minute screening and go from there. Once you get to the final interview you'll have established the quality of the candidate. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about managing your online reputation. Discussed in this Episode: Where to look? Do damage control How to improve your rating and get positive reviews Respond to reviews Make the ask Where to Look?When assessing your online reputation, the first thing you should do is look up your practice on places like Google Reviews, Yelp or ABA and see what your presence is and what your reviews look like. Do Damage ControlIt's always important to look through your online reviews and make sure they're valid. Jack shares a story about how a competitor was leaving bad reviews on all the personal injury lawyers in their vicinity and how it was rectified.  How to Improve Your Rating and Get Positive ReviewsIf you're just starting out, this is a great time to give free legal information in exchange for positive reviews. Even something as simple as a quick email exchange can net you better visibility online. If you are struggling with negative reviews, it's important to at least make sure that those reviews get pushed to page 2. Respond to ReviewsBad reviews happen to the best of them. There's no escaping a scorned defendant or client that you turned away. What you can do is engage with them in a professional manner to show that you are a reasonable person. Make the AskInstead of sending a generic email once the case has been resolved, make sure to ask them in person with a heartfelt request and follow up with the necessary information.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about case expenses and the best practices to manage them effectively. Discussed in this Episode: What do we use case expenses for? How much can we spend? How to budget a case Cash flow is critical to success How often are you successful? What Do We Use Case Expenses for?Create a list of things that are valid case expenses and things that aren't. Medical records, bills, depositions, videos and photos, are basic requirements for any case and should be automatically included in your list. This list should serve as the document for your attorneys to understand what can and can't be included for case expenses. Sometimes that line might be narrow, so be sure to be detailed when putting this list together. How Much Can We Spend?The first step is to establish the percentage of potential case earnings that can be allowed to spend on case expenses. For Zinda Law Group, that number is ten percent. Some cases will require more, but having a consistent number goes a long way to make sure that if the case doesn't receive the anticipated verdict, the financial loss is minimized.  How to Budget a CaseLook at previous costs for services to build your budget, even if a guess is as good as you can do. You don't need to be perfect, but you need to have some rough numbers before building a budget. Oftentimes there will be ways to decrease that budget just by thinking ahead and using a little common sense. Cash Flow is Critical to SuccessIf you don't have cash on hand, you'll never be able to pay for the expenses as they come up. You may have to be creative if you're just starting out, but a business loan, loan from a family member or even a credit card might be necessary at the beginning. How Often Are You Successful?No one is going to win 100% of their cases. You must build your budgets assuming that some of your cases will not have the desired result. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about how to account for lost wages in your personal injury caseDiscussed in this Episode: Loss of earning capacity  Accurately interview your client What limitations were caused by the injury? What is the duration and worth of the harm?  The loss of earning capacity worksheet Loss of Earning Capacity Though commonly referred to as “lost wages”, loss of earning capacity is more than just being unable to work while disabled. If you're well-educated on this subject, there are many other ways to claim loss of earning capacity.Accurately Interview Your ClientLoss of earning capacity means more than just your current job. When interviewing your client, ask about school, further education or other ways that the client intended to increase their earning potential. If they no longer have the means, capability to work in that field, or are delayed, there may be an additional dollar amount associated. In addition to future earning capacity, don't forget about simple things like overtime. Even if they received PTO during their injury, they are still able to retrieve lost earnings. What Limitations Were Caused by the Injury?It's not just about manual labor when it comes to limitations at work due to an injury. Many people work with computers in office settings and something as small as an inability to type will qualify. What is the Duration and Worth of the Harm? This is where age can play a large factor in how much a defendant can be liable for. This may be the time to talk with an economist and a vocational rehab expert to help get the initial figures. The Loss of Earning Capacity WorksheetThis is where you start compiling numbers and putting together a final number. Other things to look for when calculating include: quarterly or yearly bonuses, tax returns, other work amenities like insurance and retirement funds. This is also the time you'll want to compile physical evidence like W-2 forms, tax documents, a lost wages verification form, an employer statement and a doctor's note. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about what you need to do to ensure that you're completely prepared after your discovery period. Discussed in this Episode: Find the time The “theory of the case” Create your discovery questions Motion to compel  Find the TimeJack talks about his process when putting a list together. First and foremost you must set aside the time to make a comprehensive list of everything you need for each individual discovery process. Too often lawyers use templates or copy/paste their information and it can prove costly. The “Theory of the Case”Once you've set aside some dedicated time, the next step is to begin to grab information. What facts are going to be important to winning this case and what evidence you need to prioritize getting during discovery. Then it's time to start putting together a theory based on the initial information given to you in the case file.  Create Your Discovery QuestionsNow we dig deeper into each piece of evidence or information that we deem important. Do not be afraid to be very specific here. Being overly broad in your inquiry may leave room for interpretation. Was there video evidence? If not, make them prove it.  Motion to CompelAfter the initial discovery inquiry, it's time to create your motion to compel letter. This is where good lawyers can make a case. Create a person of interest log as well as a production log and find what information is missing or you feel is being withheld.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about how to win the often difficult Premises Liability cases. Discussed in this Episode: Determining which cases are worth taking Are the damages worth the risk? What information to assemble Exfoliation letter and witnesses Credibility is critical Determining Which Cases are Worth Taking There are three types of premises liability cases. An example of type one is a slip in a grocery store which often means there is a 3rd party involved. Type two is directly due to the owner of the premises not keeping up with maintenance or putting others in harm's way. The third type is where the defendant did something that led to the hazard.Are the Damages Worth the Risk?When approaching a premises liability case it's important to assume that all cases will go to trial. Is there enough to warrant all of the time and resources that may be needed to see this case to the finish.  For Zinda Law Group they tend to not take cases until they reach a certain dollar threshold or damages.  What Information to AssembleOnce you've decided to take on the case, you'll want to begin assembling information. That includes large things like maintenance violations to small things like what shoes the defendant was wearing. Sometimes something as small as one glass of wine and flip-flops may be enough to put doubt in the jury's mind.  Exfoliation Letter and WitnessesSend an exfoliation letter as soon as possible. If you are able to get video evidence you may know immediately if a case is worth pursuing. If the defense is hesitant to give you video footage, it may be a sign that they're liable. Getting witness testimony is another way to find leverage against the defendant if they are being stingy about video evidence. Credibility is CrucialEven if all of the evidence points toward liability of the defense, you still need to make sure that the client is able to play their part in the process. A client with a complicated criminal past will undoubtedly have a more difficult time than the eagle scout.  You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about what you can do to find and succeed within a niche practice area.Discussed in this Episode: Why choose a “niche”? How to find your nice Become an expert How to market to your niche? Why Choose a “Niche”?Personal injury law is an incredibly competitive place. Trying to cast too wide of a net can cause you to miss out on opportunities because you aren't able to cut through the noise. Becoming an expert on one specific type of case will improve your chances to become a leader in your field. How to Find Your NichePick something that you're already passionate about. Jack talks about being a cyclist and how knowledge of that hobby makes it much easier to be the most competent in that field. It's also important to know if there is a need for your services within that niche or in the area that you practice law. Become an ExpertTake the knowledge of your niche and pair it with your knowledge of the law. What areas do they need to intersect and do you have a comprehensive understanding of those needs?How to Market to Your NicheVolunteer your time to the community that your niche represents. Whether it's spending time person-to-person, giving talks about safety or making yourself available for questions, you must increase your exposure to see results.  You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, talks about the ways that AI technology can affect your practice.  Discussed in this Episode: Drafting demand letters Giving client updates Drafting pleadings and brief writing Evaluating cases Drafting Demand LettersOne way that AI might be effective is in demand letters. Being able to crunch a large amount of data quickly will give you a better sense of what will and won't work with a demand letter. Giving Client UpdatesAutomating systems that primarily have to do with busy work, will free up time for you and your staff to focus on larger matters.Drafting Pleadings and Brief WritingCreating templates that work with AI will allow you to key in on the specifics of the case without all of the time consuming technical jargon. Evaluating CasesUsing AI to  crunch large amounts of data and delivering that data in a tangible way will go a long way to making case evaluations more accurate and efficient. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, talks about creative ways to find new business from your past and existing clientsDiscussed in this Episode: You have to do a good job Personally interact with them once a month Survey the client regularly Keep in touch You Have to Do a Good JobUnless your client enjoyed their experience working with you, you're never going to get returning business. It may sound simple, but focusing on being the best that you can be today will create business for the future. Personally Interact with Them Once a monthIt's important to remind your clients that you are actively working on their case or that you're thinking about them. Make an extra effort to meet in person or over a teleconference video chat. Survey the Client RegularlyOnce a quarter send a survey to your clients. Without constructive criticism you'll have no way of knowing what areas need to be improved.   Keep in TouchOnce the case is complete, reach out to them at least once a year with a small gift or reminder of your services. Doing simple things to keep your name in a client's mind will greatly improve your chances of getting future work from them.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, talks about commonly overlooked areas to find damages. Discussed in this Episode: Not getting images Traumatic brain injuries Loss of earning capacity PTSD specialist  Don't make up injuries Not Getting ImagesGetting a visual representation of how severe the injury was can be very beneficial for your case. X-rays and MRIs can be especially important if there were bone breaks or hardware had to be installed.Traumatic Brain InjuriesIf your client suffers from a brain injury make sure that all possible tests are run. Unlike an external injury, you may need to provide further evidence to show the severity. Loss of Earning CapacityThis area isn't just for business owners. Anyone who is unable to work due to their injury may have a claim of either lost past and future earnings. Loss of earning capacity can even extend to a forced early retirement, so make sure to look into every possible avenue. PTSD SpecialistIf the injury was a result of a traumatic situation and the client is having difficulty dealing with it mentally or emotionally, it may be valuable to look into a post traumatic stress disorder specialist and see if there may be further emotional damages. Don't Make Up InjuriesBe very careful when establishing potential claims. While there may be overlooked areas, it's important not to bend the truth or try to find something that's clearly not there. One invalidated area may hurt the credibility of the entire case.  You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, talks about effective tactics to generate more clients for your law practice. Discussed in this Episode: Referrals from other attorneys Make your objectives clear Have good material Don't sit in the corner Batch meetings Referrals From Other AttorneysThe most simple way to generate clients is your relationship with other attorneys. If you're a new attorney this means creating new relationships by attending various events, sending mailers and gaining familiarity in general. Remember to track your data and use it to establish places of weakness. Make Your Objectives ClearWhen you're starting your practice, being intentional about what your client generation methods are is key. You may not have the bank-roll for major advertising campaigns, so make sure every dollar is utilized effectively and efficiently.Have Good MaterialA clear message to other attorneys is a way to set yourself apart from the crowd. Go into detail to explain why working with you will be beneficial for all parties involved. Batch MeetingsOnce you have the ear of other attorneys, set aside some time to meet with them. Using a tool like Calendly is a great way to allow the other party to choose the date and time for the meeting. Links:CalendlyYou can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

With a team of four seasoned personal injury attorneys at Zinda Law Group, this first episode provides real insight into how each one of these legal minds lost their training wheels to become confident, successful and effective lawyers. New attorneys can listen to this plethora of legal wisdom and breathe a sigh of relief in hearing that a legal passion plus a thirst for fresh legal knowledge is a recipe for professional success.On today's podcast:• Introduction to Zinda Law Group Attorneys, Joseph Caputo, Christina Hagen and Neil Solomon• Do nerves ever end as a new attorney?• Advice for their younger selves as new lawyers• Worst mistakes new attorneys make• Law firm's responsibility to help new attorneys' get better vs new attorneys' responsibility to get better• How to manage stress in a stressful professionDiminishing nervesWhen asked at one point did they feel comfortable as a litigator, the attorneys had the following to say.Senior Attorney, Neil Solomon, who handles severe and catastrophic injury cases at the firm, says when he started fresh out of law school he had no idea what was up from what was down. But, after 5 years of experiencing and learning, he found his legal ‘groove'.On the other hand, Christina Hagen, an attorney with a focus on wrongful death cases, found that for her it was less about the years of practice but more about the ‘types of experiences' she was exposed to that helped diminish her stress as a novice.When asked if the nerves ever really disappear, Partner and Attorney, Joe Caputo advises that “the minute we stop feeling the nerves and the pressure, we've got to get into a different business.” It's important to recognize that there is a lot on the line, and to constantly be pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.Legal passions and skillsLooking back on their time as newly licensed litigators, each attorney gives a piece of advice to their former selves.“Don't be hard on yourself, and understand you don't have to know everything right away,” Chrissy shares.Neil, who practiced law for years with respected defense firms in Texas before becoming a plaintiff's attorney, suggests “trying to figure out what you're passionate about, and what you want to do in your legal career.”They discuss the faux pas that many young lawyers make in chasing money rather than their legal passion. They advise that it is the wrong way around and leads lawyers to be married to an area of law that in the end may not be satisfactory.“Figure out what you love, and the money will follow”, Jack Zinda wisely advises.Be yourselfIn a similar vein, Joe, who was trained to be a ‘balls to walls', aggressive type of lawyer, says he would have told himself to find his own style.“Be yourself. Find out what your style is and mold what you are learning to your style,” Joe shares from personal experience.Altogether, the key message for new attorneys is to find a passion, stay updated on the law and ‘sharpen your tools' by taking advantage of all opportunities available from conferences to mentorships.Learn from your mistakesA common mistake that new attorneys often make is being over-aggressive or over the top. “Our practice is still based in relationships”, advises Neil, “whether it be opposing counsel, the judge and their staff, or the adjustor, building those relationships can generally work out in your favor and your client's favor rather than being aggressive.”As a new litigator, if you're ever worried about making a big mistake, the best advice Joe has is to “learn the rules and learn the laws because that is your safety net.”Work hard, play hardFinally, with some important words of caution, the team address how the high levels of stress inherent to the legal profession can be a killer, cause addiction and overwhelm lives.However, to combat this, they advise that being organized is one of the key tools for lawyers to stay on top and in control of the many competing demands.And, lastly, the resounding message to new attorneys from the Zinda Law Group team, is to get the work-life balance right. This is a profession that demands hard work, but survival for attorneys requires them to work hard but play harder.

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group's Chief Marketing Officer, Kevin Tully, sits down with Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda to talk more about effective management practices for your personal injury law firm. Discussed in this Episode: Set clear goals Create an open door for opinions Recognize team members Give feedback ASAP Invest in the “A” players Set Clear GoalsOutside of normal day-to-day business practices, setting goals for your employees is an important factor in growing your business. You or your employee should establish what those goals are and should work together to make sure that they have what they need to succeed. Set clear milestones and reward structures. Create an Open Door for OpinionsInternal suggestions and critiques are incredibly important to keep your practice growing and innovating. Allowing your employees to submit those opinions in a way that lets them feel safe is also an important element if you want honesty. In addition to safety, the opinions should be “weighted” towards the employee's own expertise. That doesn't mean that other opinions don't matter, but it can give you a clearer sense of direction. Recognize Team MembersThere are a million ways that your team can go above and beyond. Giving equal recognition regardless of hierarchy is very important. Even if the role is deemed as “less important”, their hard work shouldn't go unnoticed.Give Feedback ASAPIt's always better to address it immediately regardless of how small or large the issue may be. By communicating quickly, you're able to get your thoughts out before frustration can build up.Invest in the “A” PlayersYour “B” and “C” players may be the ones who make the most mistakes and often seem like they require the most correction and attention, but by putting the same amount of extra effort into the “A” player can allow them to grow by leaps and bounds.Links:Principles: Your Guided JournalScaling UpTraction: Get a Grip on Your BusinessYou can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group's Chief Marketing Officer, Kevin Tully, sits down with Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda to talk about effective management practices for your personal injury law firm. Discussed in this Episode: Define your team's responsibilities KPI scoreboards Communication in the hybrid/remote era Outlines and scripts Define Your Team's ResponsibilitiesEvery team needs to be organized and it all starts with you. Having a firm grasp on what your business needs to be successful will go a long way when it comes to delegating responsibilities. Each team member should have an “area of focus” where their expertise comes into play. Sometimes it's as simple as asking yourself “what does X do everyday?”. Once established, create a KPI that can track their performance over time. Finally, express what their responsibilities are and give them the tools to achieve it. KPI ScoreboardsPublic scoreboards can be a great tool for group accountability, increased performance and team comradery. Creating positive competition can work well when done properly, but you must be careful that it doesn't become demoralizing. Short competitions are better as they prevent a few players from pulling away and thus making the rest of the group feel like they're unable to win.   Communication in the Hybrid/Remote EraEven lawyers can struggle with honest, direct communication. Especially when the face-to-face element has been altered. Developing a management style based on empathy and vulnerability goes a long way to create trust in you as a manager. When it comes to communication there are four factors at play: 1. What you meant to say 2. What you actually said 3. What the person heard and 4. How they understood it. Addressing each of these points when trying to convey an idea (especially a critique) is crucial to ensuring that both parties understand the expectations and are capable of achieving them. Outlines and ScriptsCome prepared when opening up lines of communication. It may be tempting to go off the cuff, but having your thoughts written down will keep you on task. Remember to include personal mistakes as well. Nothing humanizes your conversation more than a moment of vulnerability.Links:Principles: Your Guided JournalYou can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you quick tips on what to do when attending your first personal injury hearing.Discussed in this Episode: Read the local rules Understand your judge What's your objective? Read the Local RulesThis step may feel simple, but before you do anything make sure you're completely comfortable with the rules and regulations of the specific state or county you're working in. You may find yourself facing problem after problem if you don't take the time to understand the small differences. Understand Your JudgeEach judge is different and has unique quirks and communication styles. If you aren't sure, talk with colleagues or attend a trial to gain a better understanding of how they run their courtroom. Try to give your judge the benefit of the doubt and know that each judge will rule differently. There will be certain cases that judges prefer over others, if you can learn that information, it can be helpful in the level of organization that's required to plead your case.What's Your Objective?Don't approach your case to win for the sake of winning. Be nuanced and fair when asking for a discovery and don't try to take everything just because it's available to you. Be organized, calm and reasonable at all times. If you don't think you'll be able to get everything you want, have a fallback position ready. This can show that you're willing to compromise and further sell your case to the judge that your positions are reasonable.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you quick tips on what to do when attending your first personal injury mediation.Discussed in this Episode: What is my objective? Who's going to attend mediation? Understand your case's value Preparing your Client for Mediation Be prepared to walk away at the right time What is My Objective?Jack lays out his three reasons for mediation: 1. To gather information 2. To set the defense up to resolve the case 3. To resolve the case. Mediation doesn't necessarily mean resolution, but by having everyone involved in the case in the same room, you can make a lot of progress towards a final result.Who's Going to Attend Mediation?Get in writing who's going to be attending in order to understand what level of authority the various participants have. Reference that lit against local rules to further your understanding of what leverage you may have. Understand Your Case's Value If your case is high value, there are often additional steps needed before beginning a mediation. The defendant may need higher authority to approve a certain amount of money and not communicating those numbers beforehand will only delay a resolution. There are many ways to decide on a value, but once you do, stick to it and be decisive.  Preparing Your Client for MediationThe client's role in mediation is to listen and take instruction from you as their lawyer. In order to keep them feeling comfortable and even able to hold a “poker face”, running them through the order of proceedings is important. Always remember that there is no such thing as over-preparing your client. If you feel that your client needs more time or more practice, don't hesitate to offer it.Be Prepared to Walk Away at the Right TimeWalking away is a tool to help facilitate a result. Knowing when the defendant is bluffing or doesn't have the means to fulfill your request can help maintain leverage. Once this has happened the case can resolve in two ways: 1. The mediator's proposal. Where the mediator provides a number that they best believe can resolve the case and 2. Direct contact with the defense willing to reopen negotiations. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you quick tips on how to handle fire injury cases.Discussed in this Episode: Get to the scene early Don't rely on the government report Don't send someone else to the scene Find a fire cause origin expert What other experts do you need? Get to the Scene EarlyDuring cleanup evidence can be destroyed, so it's imperative that you get to the scene as soon as possible. Even a week can be too long to wait. Don't Rely on the Government ReportGovernment reports often don't tell the full story as they have different objectives than you or your client do. Don't Send Someone Else to the SceneMake sure that you or a lawyer you trust is able to physically review the scene. You may find more than just physical evidence, including eyewitness testimony.Find a Fire Cause Origin ExpertGetting an expert on the scene as fast as possible is crucial. Make sure you have someone ready to call when the case presents itself.What Other Experts Do You Need?Once you've established the origin of the fire, you may need an expert in a specific field. For example: a washer/dryer repairman to assess if the cause was faulty equipment or improper installation. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda talks about everything you need to know about effective team structures within a law firm.Discussed in this Episode: What type of Firm do you want to be? A functional vs. team-based approach Focus on management Your Non-legal departments What Type of Firm Do You Want to be?If you're just starting out, it's important to envision what you want your firm to look like. That includes establishing what types of employees your firm will need. This is adjustable depending on the type of firm, but creating a list of the ideal teammates is a great base to build on. A Functional Vs. Team-Based ApproachThere are a few ways to divide your firm's workload. With a function based approach, you assign your teams based on their function in the firm. With a team-based approach, each team consists of a number of different functions. Each approach has its own merit, depending on how your firm is set up.Focus on ManagementA team can't succeed without the right manager. Depending on the type of team structure you might look for different management styles. Management is not an easy thing to train and more often than not, a lawyer is not going to be the best fit for that position. Hiring someone with specific management skills is much more effective than teaching a lawyer to do the job. Your Non-Legal DepartmentsWho owns the functional accountability among business, money and office management? It's not just about creating teams for your case work. Being intentional about who controls these departments is crucial to effective and efficient business operations. Links:Scaling UpGood to GreatYou can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you quick tips on how tomanage case expenses at a personal injury law firm.Discussed in this Episode: Track your case expenses How much to spend on cases Consider a line of credit Don't invest before you know Evaluate your Case Expenses Track Your Case ExpensesRegardless of how new your practice is, hiring a bookkeeper or at least getting expense trackingsoftware is a crucial element of successful money management.How Much to Spend on CasesBefore you begin to spend money on a case, make sure that you have a percentage of totalvalue in place to ensure that the case is profitable. Properly evaluating the value of a case is themost important step in this process.Consider a Line of CreditIt's often important to maintain a certain level of capital to pay for things like payroll. Having anadditional credit resource can go a long way to ensure that you'll have funds when needed.Don't Invest Before You KnowRefrain from using funds towards a case until you're certain that the appropriate value is there.There are certain cases that require funds to be accessed before that point, but waiting 30 daysto properly examine the case is the best practice.Evaluate Your Case Expenses As you complete cases, go back and reevaluate your expenses and adjust as needed. Don't putall of your eggs in one basket. While it may be exciting to take on a large case, if you don't getthe return you expect, you may end up out of practice before you know it.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Summary:In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you steps for decreasing the resolve time for a personal injury lawsuit. Discussed in this episode:•    Maximize your value in the least amount of time possible•    Create a timeline•    Pre-planning•    How to get around insurance company tacticsMaximize your value in the least amount of time possibleIn solving a personal injury case, your objective should be to maximize the case value in the least amount of time possible. This doesn't mean that the case should get tried sooner than it should be or that you should settle for the sake of time and walk away with less money. Rather, this means that you should look for opportunities to decrease the amount of time each aspect of the case takes.Create a TimelineIn order to accomplish this, you should create a case timeline. Within two weeks, you should establish what happened, liability, and the source of recovery in addition to discerning how catastrophic a client's injuries are. After you file the lawsuit, make sure you have a deadline to get the defendant served and measure how long each inflection point of the case should take. Pre-PlanningBefore voicing your client's demands, you need to know 1) what the case is worth, 2) what monetary number an insurance company or entity can initially offer that will indicate they are not serious about compensation, and 3) what monetary number an insurance company or entity can initially offer that will be acceptable.How to get around insurance company tacticsInsurance companies use tactics to slow down personal injury cases such as hiring overworked law firms and utilizing their own company lawyers. To get around these tactics, you should point out to the judge the logic behind them. Insurance companies also tend to ask judges for extended expert designation deadlines in addition to intentionally not scheduling depositions ahead of time. The way around these tactics is to send letters reminding the defendant of upcoming deadlines. With these reminders in place, judges are less likely to grant extensions. 

In this episode, Jack discusses how to increase the average value of a case. He shares tips and tactics such as valuing the quality of a case over quantity of cases, having a strong knowledge of your case, knowing your client's personal story, understanding the elements of liability and damages within your case, and running up the score on loss of earning capacity.  

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you quick tips on how to become a great personal injury lawyer. There's more to it than having a nickname and fancy marketing!Discussed in this Episode: Is this what I want to do? Make a list Get repetitions  Is This What I Want to Do?It's impossible to have the drive to be great if you're not in love with what you do. You must first identify what you love about being a lawyer and hyper focus on that area. Make a ListMake a list of the types of cases you're passionate about, other lawyers you look up to, and what makes those lawyer's practice's special.Get RepetitionsOnce you figure out what you're passionate about, get as much experience with that type of case as you can. That might mean volunteering time for another lawyer or doing research about the subject.   You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Summary In this episode Jack talks about how to manage vendors and consultants at a law firm. We cover the pitfalls to look out for and the best practices needed to get the best return on your investment.  Discussed in this episode:   How to hire the best vendors  How to manage vendors  Goal setting and KPIs  When to part ways  And much more   As always, feel free to contact us for more information on this topic.   You can reach Jack at: jack@zindalaw.com 866-578-0982  

SummaryIn this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO and founder, Jack Zinda, gives you quick tips on how to give yourself the best chance of landing a job at a firm.Discussed in this Episode: Customize your resume Identify the firms Look for Opportunities How can you help the firm? Customize Your ResumeWhy do you want to work for a particular firm? Be specific with your resume and share your intentions. When you join a firm, you're a part of a team and a generic resume doesn't show why you'd be a good fit.Identify the FirmsFind 3 law firms that you really like and get to know everything about them. For one, so you can give a good interview and two, so you can know if you really want to work there.Look for OpportunitiesDon't just submit resumes, look for events or other opportunities to meet lawyers. Sometimes all it takes is one really good recommendation from a trial lawyer.   How Can You Help the Firm?It's not about how they can help you. If you want to get hired, you need to be able to show what qualities you can bring to the table. You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Discussed in this Episode: Identify the client  Ensure there are no conflicts Get the credentials Know your client's story Identify the source of recovery Identify the ClientJust because they are a family member, does not mean they have the right to file the lawsuit. Ensure There are no ConflictsIf you're dealing with multiple people, make sure that they are on the same page. Family can be difficult, especially while ensuring a tragic event. Get the Credentials In addition to identifying the client, you also have to verify that they are who they say they are and have access to important information like the death certificate.Know Your Client's StoryIt's not just about financial damages, it's also about the loss of a person. Was that person well liked and respected by their family, friends, co-workers, etc? You must be able to tell their story in a way that shows how their absence negatively affects the people around them.Identify the Source of RecoveryIf there isn't any method of significant financial recovery, then you're doing you and your client a disservice.

Discussed in this Episode: Make sure you're the best Be confident & empathetic Be prepared & stay calm Practice makes perfect Make Sure You're the BestIt's not about being the best law firm in the world, but you must be the best law firm for their specific case. Don't get caught up in trying to be everything for everyone, promote what you're the best at and provide consistent results.Be Confident & EmpathicLead with empathy and your client will see your confidence. Talking to someone person-to-person instead of just looking at the numbers will go a long way.Be Prepared & Stay CalmThe more prepared you are, the more calm you will be. A calm person is a confident person and your client will be able to notice the difference. Practice Makes PerfectThere's no limit to how much you can or should practice. Practice in front of a mirror, in front of your spouse or trusted friend, while you're driving or any time possible.You can reach Jack at:jack@zindalaw.com512-246-2224

Discussed in this episode:  Investing in continuing education  Putting together a syllabus of educational materials  Investing in Continuing Education When it comes to CLEs, you want to be intentional about the programs you attend. If you are a personal injury lawyer, for example, you wouldn't attend a program unrelated to your field. Creating a Syllabus of Educational Materials Next, create a syllabus of educational materials that will help you master your craft. Then, spend 15 minutes per day mastering your craft or improving yourself. The important thing here is to start small. Ask someone to hold yourself accountable and make sure you have the materials you need on-hand.