I enjoy practicing employment law because it often requires the simultaneous application of substantive knowledge and emotional intelligence. Sometimes a certain approach may be legally permissible, but not necessarily prudent. When advising clients, I consider how a jury would perceive a client’s actions and the psychological response these actions will elicit. I also find it insightful to understand an employee’s motivation and perspective when seeking a solution that is both lawful and likely to keep the client out of court.

My interactions with clients are characterized by candor (my friends call me “slick as a sledgehammer”) and humor (because sometimes you have to laugh or you will cry). My goal is to present clients with practical options for problem resolution and help them find the best path forward. Frequently, that path involves balancing legal risk and business need, and I work closely with clients to assist them in finding where the balance lies.

While I seek to prevent the litigation burden and expense, I grew up in a poor Eastern European country to parents whose joint monthly income was less than $300/month. High level sports competition was my way of getting out and achieving my dreams. If a court proceeding ensues, my competitive nature is quick to emerge, and I relish the fight and related litigation strategy. In my over 20 years of experience practicing law at midsize and large law firms, my fondest memories are from being in trial.

When I am not deep in legal thoughts, you can find me hitting balls on the tennis courts, running outdoors, or watching a spy TV show (I am still lamenting the discontinuation of “Burn Notice”).