Do you recommend accepting responsibility in SAM cases? If so, how do you do that without offending the jury or causing reputational damage?

If any case is going to anger a jury, it is a SAM case.  It is imperative to defuse such by having our entity client accept responsibility consistent with our TM methods.  This is necessary in order to shift the focus to the pertinent issues including the responsibility of the actual perpetrator, personalizing our client and our policies and procedures aimed towards the safety of the children, and actual damages.

What advice would you give to law students or young attorneys aspiring to specialize in insurance defense?

There is a reason it is called the “practice of law” because it is always evolving and we are always learning.  Be a sponge.  Be receptive and open because there is always something new to learn.  The law is evolving and we need to do the same.  I am ever grateful to my colleagues who have taken the time to help me learn, and have never forgotten that.

Are there noticeable differences between practicing law in both California and Tennessee?

Yes.  Tennessee civil practice is based on the Federal Code of Civil Procedure, whereas California has a unique and distinct body of statutory and, consequently, case law.

What are some of your favorite hidden gems in Nashville, and how do you spend your free time?

Middle Tennessee is truly a beautiful and unique area.  There are many natural wonders in the area and throughout the state, which is notably in two time zones (Central and Eastern) and bordered by 8 states.  In Nashville, I like going to Cheekwood, which has amazing gardens and cultural events, with my family.  For a fun night, you cannot beat heading down to Broadway for some hot chicken (Hattie B’s and Prince’s) and great music in the honky tonks and the Ryman Auditorium.   The Nashville Predators hockey games are a blast with a fervent fan base at the Bridgestone Arena (on Broadway), as are the Nashville Sounds minor league baseball games over in Germantown.  Hopefully, the Titans are on the upswing – very much looking forward to the new stadium that is being built.  Other fun places in Nashville:  12 South (12^th Avenue) a hip, vibrant shopping street with some really good dining including Fonda, Locust, Epice, Edley’s BBQ and Burger Up.  Other favorites are the Catbird Seat, Rolf & Daughters and City House. Franklin TN is also another beautiful area, with a main street that has been well-preserved.

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