Constant evolution is a theme at McLeish Orlando. The firm takes advantage of the latest technology, employs a ‘bring forward’ system which involves pre-set meetings where everyone’s tasks are reviewed and updated at each meeting, and has frequent in-house meetings to discuss new developments and how we can do things better and more efficiently. McLeish says this is the only way to ensure quality control and have a case move through the system as quickly as possible.
Keeping clients fully informed and engaged
McLeish Orlando never loses sight of the fact that their clients have a lot at stake, – in most cases the money obtained from resolution of a case will improve the quality of their life in the future. Clients need to be kept informed as their case progresses. For this reason, the firm copies clients with all correspondence delivered and received, all emails, all court filings, and all memos. Though McLeish has received more than his fair share of recognition over the course of his career — most recently, he was named by Best Lawyers as the Personal Injury Litigation Lawyer of the year — he says he was honoured to receive the recognition, and very proud that the work he continues to do and his contributions to the profession be acknowledged, but comments that the best recognition he can receive comes from his clients.
“I’ve sat across the table from many clients after getting a good result and handing them a cheque. To hear words of appreciation and gratitude and sometimes see a few tears is all the recognition I need.”
How to be a great personal injury lawyer
When asked how young lawyers can young position themselves to reach the top of the field? “Read everything,” McLeish says, on trial advocacy, on effective communication, on anatomy, and on personal injury law, and attend programs that are not just about getting CPD credits. There are some great programs in the US that teach trial advocacy, including tactics and strategy that you can’t necessarily find in Canada. Another crucial point is to take any opportunity, whether it’s a contested motion, a hearing, or a $500 small claims court trial simply to get on your feet. Yes, it absolutely will take hours of preparation and likely not be economically viable, but that is not the point.
“There are so few opportunities these days for lawyers to get into a courtroom because everything is geared towards settlement, that when any opportunity comes along, you want to jump at it,” McLeish says. “In the long run, these experiences will pay huge dividends.”