What I Wish I Learned in Law School

Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence introduces the CEO of Westrock Appraisal, Abe Romer. Westrock Appraisal isn't just a company; it's a legacy established in 1987 by Abe Romer's father. As the current President, Abe oversees every department, ensuring that the company's reach extends across 40 states in the US. Their clientele is diverse, ranging from CMBS lenders and conventional banks to estate planning attorneys and the IRS. Abe's leadership has been instrumental in the company's expansion, maintaining a robust staff of about 85 full-time employees nationwide.

One of the standout services provided by Westrock Appraisal is their work with estate planning attorneys. Abe explained how they appraise properties for clients involved in estate planning, a service made possible by their extensive coverage across the United States. This capability allows them to collaborate with attorneys in various states, showcasing the company's adaptability and commitment to meeting client needs.

To learn more about Abe's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Audrey Ehrhardt's work at Practice42, check out her website at https://practice42.com/.

In the inaugural episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Attorney of Letsch Law Firm, Cynthia Letsch. One of the most striking points Cynthia made was about the disconnect between legal education and the actual practice of law. She expressed a wish that law schools would place greater emphasis on the rules of civil procedure. It's one thing to study the theory behind these rules, but understanding their application is crucial for any lawyer stepping into a courtroom. This gap in practical knowledge is something many new lawyers face, and it's a gap that needs bridging for the betterment of our profession.

Cynthia's insights didn't stop at legal procedures. She delved into the art of running a law firm—a challenge that many lawyers are unprepared for. Starting and managing a firm is no small feat, and it requires a skill set that often goes beyond what's taught in law school. From operational management to the nuances of client acquisition, Cynthia highlighted the multifaceted nature of her role as a law firm owner.

To learn more about Cynthia's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Audrey Ehrhardt's work at Practice42, check out her website at https://practice42.com/.

Your host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Events of Smokeball, Emma Raimi-Zlatic. One of the first topics was Emma's role at Smokeball, a company that's at the forefront of legal case management software. Contrary to what some might think, Smokeball has nothing to do with cannabis. Instead, it's a powerhouse of legal technology, offering robust document automation tools and comprehensive features that streamline managing legal matters, billing, and timekeeping.

Emma's position as the Director of Partnerships places her at the heart of Smokeball's mission to enhance the efficiency and productivity of law firms. Through her work, she ensures that legal professionals are equipped with the best tools to manage their caseloads effectively, allowing them to focus on what they do best—practicing law.

To learn more about Emma's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Audrey Ehrhardt's work at Practice42, check out her website at https://practice42.com/.

On this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Owner, Veteran's Advocate, and Elder Law Attorney of OC Elder Law, Marty Burbank. Marty's journey into the world of elder law is both personal and professional. With his main office nestled in Fullerton, Orange County, California, Marty's firm may be relatively small, but its reach is extensive, serving clients across California and the state of Washington virtually. Oak Elder Law specializes in traditional estate planning, high net worth estate planning, elder law, veterans benefits, medical planning, and asset protection.

The seeds of Marty's interest in elder law were planted through his personal experiences, particularly the care of his paternal grandmother. His 12-year tenure in healthcare, where he witnessed the darker side of elder care, including neglect and abuse, initially led him to consider nursing home litigation. However, his path took a turn when he discovered a passion for tax law, leading him to pursue an LL.M. in tax law. This specialized knowledge allowed him to advocate for the senior population in a more impactful way.

To learn more about Marty's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Audrey Ehrhardt's work at Practice42, check out her website at https://practice42.com/.

Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence, talks with the Sole Owner, Attorney, and Counselor of Ford & Lustfield Law Office, Cassandra Lustfield. Cassandra Lustfield is not just any lawyer; she has dedicated her career to helping clients navigate the often-overwhelming world of estate planning and elder law. At Ford & Lustfield Law Office, she offers a spectrum of services that cater to various needs, from straightforward estate plans to more complex trust plans and Medicaid asset protection trusts. She also assists with the formation of LLCs for asset protection, ensuring her clients' legacies are secure.

Based in Windom, Minnesota, Cassandra's practice primarily serves farmers and individuals with smaller estates. She understands the unique challenges they face, concerning farmland and estate taxes. Her expertise is crafting legal documents and understanding the nuances of her client's lives and livelihoods.

To learn more about Cassandra's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Audrey Ehrhardt's work at Practice42, check out her website at https://practice42.com/.