Significant Career Lesson From an Arbitrator and Mediator at Simburg Dispute Resolution
Mel's most significant career lesson emphasizes the importance of consistent high-quality work regardless of case size, stating "you can't make your effort proportional to what's involved in the case," prioritizing ethical conduct above financial considerations. A second key lesson highlights the need for calmness and objectivity, advising against emotional reactions and personalizing client interactions, recognizing that "clients say things because of where they are emotionally."
Ethical Decision-Making, Dispute Resolution, Legal Practice, Stress Management, Client Communication
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Mel Simburg
Arbitrator and Mediator
Simburg Dispute Resolution
University of California at Berkeley
Columbia University: Juris Doctor, Masters of International Affairs
Political Science, American Studies
Consulting & Related Professional Services, Law
Legal
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. Always give your best effort regardless of case size or fee.
2. Remain calm and consider things before reacting emotionally.
3. Do not take client's words or actions personally; understand their emotional state
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The most important lesson is to do the best you can and take the time necessary, regardless of whether you are being paid or have to discount your fees. This is because the case might be too small to merit the amount of fees when not enough money is at stake.
You can't make your effort proportional to what's involved in the case. You really have to give it your best effort, or you are not doing the ethical job you are required to do to assist your client.
Another important lesson is that a lawyer needs to remain calm and consider things, rather than reacting emotionally. Don't feel required to give an immediate answer or response to a question or stimulus.
And don't take anything personally. People do things on behalf of their lawyers, and clients say things because of where they are emotionally. Even though it might be directed at you as a lawyer, it isn't really intended as a personal attack. It's someone else's frustration or a way they think they can intimidate someone else.
Advizer Personal Links
SimburgDR.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-simburg-1277ba/