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  • Ep33: The Mayor on Trial: One Attorney's Unique Legal Landscape

    Ep33: The Mayor on Trial: One Attorney's Unique Legal Landscape
    2023/11/22
    Joel Greer boasts a substantial legal background coupled with a deep dedication to the principles of justice. Holding key leadership positions, including the presidency of the Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers, the Iowa State Bar Association, and the Vice Presidency of Iowans for Justice, he has left an indelible mark on the legal landscape. Acknowledged as a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, Joel has also chaired both the Iowa Supreme Court Grievance Commission and the State Judicial Nominating Commission. His academic pursuits include an M.A. in political science from the University of Iowa and a J.D. from Iowa Law School. Beyond his legal commitments, Joel has actively contributed to various non-profit causes, chairing or leading 22 organizations. Personally, he holds an instrument-rated pilot license and boasts the accomplishment of completing a marathon. In the familial realm, the legal legacy extends as his wife, Sharon Soorholtz Greer, serves as an Iowa Court of Appeals judge.   In this episode of Case Closed host Michael Clanin listens to Joel Greer as he provides an insightful glimpse into the trajectory of his career. Originating with a broad legal practice, he eventually found his niche in civil litigation on the defense side. The conversation unfolds to include anecdotes from notable cases, ranging from a significant medical malpractice trial to humorous incidents in the courtroom. Joel also sheds light on the intricacies of his role as the mayor of Marshalltown, emphasizing the delicate balance between civic responsibilities and legal practice. The episode delves into his experiences with appeals, offering valuable insights into maintaining a harmonious relationship with his wife, who is a judge on the Court of Appeals. Overall, the podcast provides a comprehensive exploration of Joel's diverse professional and personal journey.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Diverse Legal Experience: Listeners may appreciate the breadth of Joel Greer’s experiences, ranging from criminal cases to personal injury and medical malpractice. Hear the inspiring history of a mayor of Marshalltown as he showcases his active involvement in giving back to the community. Humorous Legal Anecdotes; includes amusing anecdotes from Joel's cases, such as a pizza door rolling incident and a slip and fall case involving a professor. Enjoy these lighthearted moments, offering a glimpse into the more humorous aspects of legal practice. Valuable insights into handling appeals, emphasizing the pivotal role of making a strong record during trials, particularly relevant for those interested in the appellate aspect of law. The dynamic between an attorney and his wife, a judge on the Court of Appeals, highlights the delicate balance between personal and professional life. Learn the intricacies of navigating a harmonious relationship, including their decision to avoid working on the same case.   Connect with Joel Greer https://www.bradshawlaw.com/attorneys/joel-t-s-greer   Connect with Michael Clanin https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelclanin/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 分
  • Ep032: Beyond Courtrooms: Personal Stories Fueling Social Advocacy

    Ep032: Beyond Courtrooms: Personal Stories Fueling Social Advocacy
    2023/11/15
    This episode Michael Clanin interviews Michael Haggard, a managing partner at the Heckard Law Firm in Miami. Haggard shares insights into his legal career, his motivation to practice personal injury and wrongful death law, and the firm's dedication to representing crime victims.   Haggard highlights a significant case where they secured a $100 million verdict for a victim named Sammy Brock, who became a quadriplegic due to a carjacking. This case marked a turning point for the firm, which gained recognition as advocates for crime victims. They have since lobbied for gun restrictions, victim's compensation, and the rights of crime victims in the criminal process.   They also discussed another case involving Lorenzo Peters, a 14-year-old who suffered a traumatic injury in a swimming pool due to a missing drain cover. Haggard's efforts led to a $100 million verdict and a subsequent campaign to improve pool safety by pushing for legislation and safety measures.   Haggard recounts another heart-wrenching case involving a young girl named Lord Hinton, who experienced brain damage after falling into a pool due to a broken gate latch. Despite the insurance company's refusal to pay, the firm obtained a $100 million verdict, and this case became instrumental in advocating for pool safety measures, such as pool fencing and codes enforcement.   Michael shares personal connections to philanthropy, such as his involvement with the Polycystic Kidney Foundation due to a genetic disease in his family. He delves into the challenges of addressing gun violence in the United States and his commitment to sensible gun laws. Michael encourages open dialogue and collaboration to find solutions to societal issues, emphasizing the role lawyers can play in making a positive impact. The interview concludes with insights into Michael's future goals for the law firm and continued efforts in advocacy.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: The challenge of managing a legal career alongside philanthropic work. Addressing guns in the United States, pointing out the alarming statistics and emphasizing the importance of sensible gun laws to ensure public safety. Encouragement for dialogue and collaboration to find practical solutions in addressing challenges and making a positive change. Advocacy for Crime Victims: The Haggard Law Firm is dedicated to representing crime victims and striving to change corporate behavior that causes tragedies. Impactful Verdicts of $100 million or more! These verdicts made a significant impact on the victims' lives and led to changes in industries' safety practices.     Connect with Michael Haggard https://haggardlawfirm.com/contact-our-attorneys/ Connect with Michael Clanin https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelclanin/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 分
  • Ep31: Navigating the Complexities of the Justice System

    Ep31: Navigating the Complexities of the Justice System
    2023/11/09
    On this episode of Case Closed, host Michael Clanin interviews Matt Long. Matt Long is a seasoned lawyer with a specialization in criminal and personal injury law, and a keen interest in trial law and system accountability. He is a partner at Long and Simmons Law in Phoenix, Arizona, and has a wealth of experience, including over 75 jury trials. Matt's perspective is centered on the importance of specialization in criminal and personal injury law, and system accountability. He stresses the need for accurate information and the right attorney, advising individuals to thoroughly vet their attorney and seek a second opinion before making a decision. Matt believes that hasty decisions often lead to unnecessary stress and conflict, and he emphasizes the similarities between criminal and personal injury cases in terms of approach and evidentiary standards. His ultimate goal is to help clients navigate the complexities of the justice system and seek justice for those who have been wronged. Join Michael Clanin and Matt Long on this episode of the Case Closed podcast to learn more about navigating the complexities of the justice system.  Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Specialization in criminal and personal injury law Journey into law and commitment to trials Extensive experience in defending serious crimes Advocacy for system accountability and truth-seeking Importance of finding the right attorney Connect with Matt: https://longandsimmonslaw.com/team-members/mathew-long/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 分
  • Ep30: Finding the Right Lawyer: Ensuring Proper Guidance and Protection

    Ep30: Finding the Right Lawyer: Ensuring Proper Guidance and Protection
    2023/10/19
    Ben Jemsek is a seasoned attorney with a specialization in personal injury law practice. His background spans various areas of law, including plaintiffs work, defense work, and business law, and his expertise extends beyond the local level, having successfully represented clients in multiple states and even internationally. Ben's perspective on personal injury law practice is centered around the well-being and best interests of the injured clients. He expresses concern about how changes in the legal landscape may impact the quality of representation and whether clients are getting the best lawyers. He emphasizes the importance of choosing an attorney based on what is best for the client, rather than what is best for the lawyer or law firm. Ben also discusses the impact of changes in ethical rules, such as the ability to split fees with non-lawyers, and how it has brought in outside money and corporate firms, potentially displacing solo practitioners and changing the dynamics of personal injury law practice. Join Michael Clanin and Ben Jemsek on this episode of the Case Closed podcast to learn more about why early legal representation matters.  Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Why early legal representation matters Advice for young lawyers Ethical considerations Future trends in personal injury law Impact of changes in the legal landscape Connect with Ben: https://www.zacharassociates.com/benjamin-r-jemsek/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 分
  • Ep30: Finding the Right Lawyer: Ensuring Proper Guidance and Protection

    Ep30: Finding the Right Lawyer: Ensuring Proper Guidance and Protection
    2023/10/19
    Ben Jemsek is a seasoned attorney with a specialization in personal injury law practice. His background spans various areas of law, including plaintiffs work, defense work, and business law, and his expertise extends beyond the local level, having successfully represented clients in multiple states and even internationally. Ben's perspective on personal injury law practice is centered around the well-being and best interests of the injured clients. He expresses concern about how changes in the legal landscape may impact the quality of representation and whether clients are getting the best lawyers. He emphasizes the importance of choosing an attorney based on what is best for the client, rather than what is best for the lawyer or law firm. Ben also discusses the impact of changes in ethical rules, such as the ability to split fees with non-lawyers, and how it has brought in outside money and corporate firms, potentially displacing solo practitioners and changing the dynamics of personal injury law practice. Join Michael Clanin and Ben Jemsek on this episode of the Case Closed podcast to learn more about why early legal representation matters.  Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Why early legal representation matters Advice for young lawyers Ethical considerations Future trends in personal injury law Impact of changes in the legal landscape Connect with Ben: https://www.zacharassociates.com/benjamin-r-jemsek/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 分
  • Ep29: Finding the Right Legal Representation

    Ep29: Finding the Right Legal Representation
    2023/09/14
    On this episode of Case Closed, host Michael Clanin interviews David Catanese. David’s journey from small-town Steubenville, Ohio, to becoming a prominent Arizona attorney is nothing short of remarkable. With dual majors in Honors History and Political Science from Canisius College, he ventured to Arizona State University College of Law in 1984, graduating in 1987. His legal career began in 1988, representing injured individuals, battling corporate giants like Ford and GM. In 1994, he became a partner at Rake & Catanese, P.C., securing victories in diverse tort cases, including wrongful arrests and significant sexual harassment verdicts. In 2008, he founded the Catanese Law Firm, focusing on trials and garnering extensive courtroom experience. Joining the Zachar Law Firm in 2015, David continued his success with verdicts exceeding $3.1 million and settlements over $16.6 million.   Together, Michael and David discuss the importance of thorough research when selecting a lawyer and the seriousness of legal issues. He also underscores the devastating effects of catastrophic injuries on individuals and their families, which has shaped his dedication to advocating for safety measures and promoting responsible behavior. His perspective on trial law and safety advocacy is deeply rooted in his personal experiences and a desire to make a significant difference in the courtroom. J   Join Michael Clanin and David Catanese on this episode of the Case Closed podcast to learn more about his career and advocacy work.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Why judges and juries matter Arizona’s conservative landscape Safety advocacy Challenges of trial law The importance of team collaboration Considering the broader impact of legal decisions   Connect with David: https://www.zacharassociates.com/david-catanese/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 分
  • Ep28: Preparation and Client Care: Keys to Legal Success

    Ep28: Preparation and Client Care: Keys to Legal Success
    2023/09/07
    On this episode of Case Closed, host Max Newman interviews Christopher Zachar. Christopher is a personal injury trial lawyer who has practiced law in Arizona since 1992. He graduated from Arizona State University in Tempe in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science, and in 1992 from the University of Arizona College of Law in Tucson with his Juris Doctor Degree. He is admitted to practice law in all city, county and state courts in Arizona. In addition, Chris is admitted to practice law in the United States District Court, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court. As an experienced litigator, Mr. Zachar has earned a respected reputation among peers and satisfied clients for obtaining favorable settlements and verdicts.   Christopher is a seasoned attorney with over three decades of experience in the legal field, specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases. He is the founder of Zachar Law Firm in Phoenix, Arizona, and is renowned for his landmark $47 million verdict, achieved through his strategic legal approach. Zachar's perspective on this topic is shaped by his willingness to take on challenging cases that others may avoid, believing that the insurance climate in the country often stacks the deck against plaintiffs' attorneys. He emphasizes the importance of preparation, hard work, and a genuine care for his clients in order to present the best case possible.   Together, Max and Christopher discuss his 47 million dollar verdict against the State of Arizona. This verdict, the highest ever achieved by an attorney interviewed on the podcast, highlights the importance of hard work, preparation, and persistence in the field of law. The importance of thinking outside the box and considering unique theories in legal strategies was emphasized by Zachar. In this particular case, the initial law firms involved deemed it too difficult and uncertain to pursue a case against the State of Arizona. However, Zachar saw the potential and flew to California to meet with the family. He believed in their cause and was determined to seek justice.   Listen to this informative Case Closed: The Contingency Fee podcast episode with Christopher Zachar about the power of preparation and care in the personal injury law field.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Christopher’s 47 million dollar verdict against the State of Arizona The importance of preparation and client care in law Staying hydrated in hot weather and how it can lead to serious issues Pioneering legal strategies for compensation Specializing in personal injury and wrongful death   Connect with Christopher: czachar@zacharlaw.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    26 分
  • Ep27: Riding the Road of Justice: Motorcycle Law Revealed

    Ep27: Riding the Road of Justice: Motorcycle Law Revealed
    2023/08/10
    On this episode of Case Closed, host Michael Clanin interviews Pete Leehey. For over 30 years, Pete Leehey has been helping people injured in motorcycle and auto crashes. As a biker and motorcycle enthusiast himself, Pete understands the effects of a serious collision from both a professional and a personal perspective.   Pete has been awarded the AV rating, the highest possible rating for legal ability and ethics from the Martindale- Hubbell Law Directory, based on reviews by other lawyers and judges. Pete has also been named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer (Iowa) by the American Trial Lawyers Association. Pete is a member of ABATE of Iowa (District 5) and Minnesota (Flatlanders). He currently serves as Iowa’s District 5 Coordinator and is also a regular “Share the Road” presenter. Pete serves as legal counsel for the Iowa and Minnesota Confederations of Motorcycle Clubs. He is licensed to practice law in Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin currently.   On the podcast, Michael and Pete discuss Pete’s passion for motorcycles and how it led him to specialize in motorcycle law. Pete shares a personal story about a close call he had while riding his motorcycle, emphasizing the importance of being alert and cautious on the road. The conversation also explores the concept of "share the road" and the efforts of organizations like Abate of Iowa Abate of Iowa to raise awareness and educate drivers about motorcycles. The challenges of representing motorcyclists, dealing with insurance companies, and the potential safety concerns of self-driven cars are also discussed. The Biker Lawyers, Pete's firm, are recognized for their presence at motorcycle rallies and their affiliation with motorcycle clubs, establishing their credibility and expertise in this area of law.   Listen to this informative Case Closed: The Contingency Fee podcast episode with Pete Leehey about motorcycle law.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Specializing in motorcycle law Share the road: educating motorists about motorcycles Significant cases and challenges Building trust in the motorcycle community The Biker Lawyers   Connect with Pete: bikerlawyersmktg@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    24 分