Ep 004: Mediation Tips with Steve Toole Part 2

In this episode of the Iron Mind Podcast, Steve Toole advises young attorneys, emphasizing the importance of preparation, overcoming fear and indecision, and making tough decisions with clients. He also highlights the value of collegiality and knowledge sharing within the legal community. In mediation, client decision-making is crucial, considering the client's risk tolerance and the potential for good settlements. Clients may not settle in three common scenarios: fear, being a bad witness, or having undisclosed problems with the case. Dealing with difficult clients requires making hard decisions and trusting your instincts. Toole also emphasizes the importance of preparation and a proactive mindset in personal injury trials, resisting fear, anxiety, and indecision to avoid procrastination.

Key Takeaways

• Tips for Young Attorneys: Unlock the power of preparation, conquer fear, and master client decision-making, all while learning how to leverage collegiality and knowledge sharing to elevate your impact in the insurance industry and enhance case outcomes.
• Client Decision-Making in Mediation: Learn how understanding your client's risk tolerance and the possibilities for favorable settlements can transform the mediation process. 
• Mediation Settlement Scenarios: Delve into the three critical scenarios that often prevent clients from settling: fear of trial, being a weak witness, and hidden case issues.
• Dealing with Difficult Clients: Gain valuable strategies for making a positive first impression and the crucial steps to handle challenging clients effectively, preventing negative impacts on your cases.
• The Three P's of Trial Preparation: Discover the transformative power of meticulous preparation, the three P's of trial readiness, and strategies to outshine your opposition in court.

About Our Guest

Steve Toole was admitted to practice in Washington in 1976. For over 40 years his practice has been limited to personal injury litigation, mediation and arbitration.  Although conducting Mediations since approximately 2000, Steve has been practicing full-time as a Neutral (Mediations and Arbitrations) since approximately 2010. He received his BA degree from The Ohio State University in 1971 and his JD degree from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1975. Steve has lived and maintained a solo/small firm practice in Bellevue, Washington since 1983.  He has been married to his wife Christie since 1982 and is a proud parent and doting grandfather.

Resources:
Website: https://sgtoolelaw.com
Address: Bellevue, WA
Number: 425-455-1570
Email: steve@sgtoolelaw.com

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