Tag: #newattorneys

Ethical Considerations When Using an Online Referral Service

Ethical Considerations When Using an Online Referral Service

By Alara Chilton

As a personal injury lawyer who is only licensed to practice in California, you take great pride in using the latest technology as part of your firm’s day-to-day operations. Effectively incorporating technology into your practice enables you to better serve your clients and bottom line. Recently, you saw a social media ad for an online networking service named “Referral Law, P.C.” (RL[1]) that promises: (1) a national network of lawyers to refer cases and, (2) it will handle the process of collecting referral fees for its members. Read More

NLD Member Spotlight: Regina (Calvario) Dryjanski

NLD Member Spotlight: Regina (Calvario) Dryjanski

By Lillian Glenister, Esq.
Judicial Law Clerk at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California

“One of my favorite parts of doing my job is knowing that I am on the right side — the side that protects the rights of vulnerable people,” says Regina (Calvario) Dryjanski, Esq. Read More

Working Smarter Not Harder: Time Saving Organization Tips for New Lawyers

Working Smarter Not Harder: Time Saving Organization Tips for New Lawyers

By Katherine Dishongh, Esq.

Undoubtedly, litigation operates at a rapid pace and demands a significant degree of effectiveness to achieve success. It’s easy to become ensnared in an extensive research endeavor or inadvertently overlook a novel case if one isn’t attentive. Employing a more strategic approach enhances an attorney’s capacity to effectively champion their clients’ cause, avoiding unnecessary time spent on redundant research or duplicative arguments. This article provides suggestions to effectively organize authority and stay up to date with changes in the law, the courts, and opposing counsel. Read More

Tips For New Lawyers: Requests for Production of Documents, Tangible Things, Land, and Other Property

Tips For New Lawyers: Requests for Production of Documents, Tangible Things, Land, and Other Property

By Katherine Dishongh, Esq.

In civil cases, parties can use Requests for Production of Documents (RFP) to obtain documents. There is no limit on the number of RFPs. Keep your RFPs in mind when drafting other discovery devices to avoid wasting limited Special Interrogatories or Requests for Admission. Read More

Message from the NLD Chair

Message from the NLD Chair

By Stephanie Pengilley

Hello Members,

Feeling a little gloomy? I know I am! Unfortunately, May Gray was all too real, and June Gloom is staying true to its name. “Sunny” San Diego did not have one clear day in May, according to data from the National Weather Service, and it appears June will trend gloomy as well. So if you are feeling a little down, I encourage you to set an intention to do something that brings you joy. Whether that’s going to the beach, hanging out with a friend, going on a hike or trying something new, get out and do something lift your mood. If you’re not sure what to do check out the SDCBA’s Wellness Wednesday. Read More

Tips from the Bench: Hon. Joel R. Wohlfeil

Tips from the Bench: Hon. Joel R. Wohlfeil

By Matthew M. Spolsky, Esq.
Ford, Walker, Haggerty & Behar, LLP

Judge Joel Wohlfeil is proud to serve the San Diego community as a judge; when you first enter his courtroom, this is evident. He has chosen to hang artwork in his courtroom which show important memories in his legal career. His chambers are filled with photographs of things he values including his family, his memorial to his father, and his legal career. One hallmark of his chambers is the Daily Journal article which featured him and his work ethic as a judge throughout his career. When you meet Judge Wohlfeil, you feel he values both his work as a judge and what he continues to do for the community. Read More

Tips from the Bar: Deputy District Attorney James D. Koerber

Tips from the Bar: Deputy District Attorney James D. Koerber

By Garret Arrieta
California Western School of Law Class of ‘25

Deputy District Attorney James D. Koerber has served as a public servant in California for almost 40 years. First, he served as a Deputy District Attorney in Riverside County. He then went on to advocate for San Diegans as a Deputy District Attorney for over 35 years. He currently works at the Major Violator Unit in the Superior Court Division of the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. As a veteran prosecutor, he epitomizes what it means to be a public servant. Read More

Ethical Considerations and Fee Arbitration

Ethical Considerations and Fee Arbitration

By Mitchell L. Lathrop

Nearly all new engagements for legal services should include a written agreement which spells out the terms and scope of the engagement, the fees to be charged and their means of computation if something other than a straight hourly or fixed-fee arrangement, the identity of the client, and any limitations on the engagement. When contingent fees are involved, Business & Professions Code section 6147 imposes a number of requirements, including a written agreement. Read More

NLD Member Spotlight: Tarina Mand

NLD Member Spotlight: Tarina Mand

By Alexandra Demastrie
Antonyan Miranda

Tarina Mand was recently awarded with the 2023 SDCBA Service by a New Lawyer Award. A first-generation college student and lawyer, Tarina received a bachelor’s degree in literature from University of California San Diego and was a 2016 graduate of California Western School of Law. As an attorney at Dixon Diab & Chambers LLC, Tarina represents plaintiffs in class action, mass tort, and employment law cases. She has tried cases in both state and federal court and says she loves working on these types of cases because the issues are challenging and exciting. Read More