SC Family Lawyer Speaks at Legal Investigators' Conference

Posted on October 9, 2007 by J. Benjamin Stevens
The South Carolina Association of Legal Investigators (SCALI) asked me to speak yesterday at their Fall Conference, held this year in Greenville, SC.  Almost 100 investigators attended my presentation on the topic of "Effective Investigations in Child Custody Cases."

During my talk, I gave the investigators three tips to help their investigations in these types of cases:
  1. Let the clients know the following information:
    a.   What your investigative plan is for their case;
    b.   When you anticipate starting to work on their case;
    c.   When you will (and won't) be working their case; and
    d.   How much you anticipate charging for your services.
  2. Spend time with the client at the beginning to find out as much as you can about facts that existed at time child custody was last addressed by the Court.  This can be particularly helpful in custody modification cases.
  3. Review copies of the pleadings and Affidavits filed by both parties to help learn as much about each party's allegations so that you can help prove your client's allegations and disprove the opposing party's allegations.
The investigators present had great questions for me, and I appreciate their willingness to learn as much as they can to become the best investigators possible.  Thanks again to SCALI for inviting me to speak at their conference again this year.
Tags: , , , , , ,

Tips for Success at Your Settlement Conference

Posted on August 21, 2007 by J. Benjamin Stevens
Many cases can get settled simply by getting the parties together to talk.  This type of informal meeting is called a "settlement conference."  The following steps can help you prepare for a settlement conference and improve the chances of its success:
  1. Identify the issues in your case.
  2. Understand how the law affects your case.
  3. Know the estimated costs of trial.
  4. Remain open to unique opportunities.
  5. Keep a few secrets.   
  6. Be determined.   
  7. Be ready for a little give and take.
  8. Be patient.
  9. Get it in writing.
You can read much more about each of these steps by clicking here.

Source:  "Settlement Conference Success" by Helene Taylor, published at The Modern Woman's Divorce Guide.
Tags: , , , ,