Ever feel like the practice of consumer bankruptcy law resembles crossing the chasm on a rope bridge? In the dark?
I assure you, you are not alone.
In one of my first contested matters in bankruptcy, probably within 18 months of passing the bar, and the same distance from adoption of the Bankruptcy Code, I must have set a record for the number of times I continued a hearing, because I didn’t know what to do if I were to show up at the hearing.
Those days, I thought I didn’t like litigation. Turns out, what I didn’t like was being a beginner. I HATED not knowing how to proceed, what to say, how to get to the heart of the matter.
Time, practice, and some help from my mentor and that changed. And it became clear to me that to really get things done, I had to be ready to argue disputed issues to a judge.
Now, those cooler heads around me try to keep me from taking up every fight I see.
So, as we approach the New Year, and a reflexive time to think about changes, what do you want to add to your skill set? What do you want to change in your practice? What is it that stands between you and better serving your clientele?
What’s it going to take to get your practice to the other side of the gorge?
Image courtesy of Scot Tares.
I need a VA who can and will do the work, and who can be trusted.
Allen Flowers
More hands? Sounds good. What does the VA have to be trusted to do (or not do?) Do you have a story here?
For 2012, I’d like to find more of a work/life balance. Also, I’d like to find more opportunities to litigate in bankruptcy court. I’ve actually found that I like research and writing. I’ll also focus on writing more blogs, finding speaking engagements, and networking. Oh, and exercise on a regular basis.
I would like to get a better understanding of chapter 13. I think this is an extremely useful chapter, and would like to get a better handle on what all can be done for the benefit of our clients.
My thoughts exactly. Chapter 13 has so many advantages and so much flexibility. If it isn’t a familiar tool in your tool kit, you need to add it.