Faulkner Law Firm LLC - Attorneys at Law

Trial Attorneys, Not Just Litigators

It has become a legal fact of life in modern litigation that true trial lawyers are becoming very rare - - some say, a "dying breed." The Chicago Daily Law Bulletin reported on this problem in its article, "Trial Lawyer Ranks Graying, Thinning," Law Day 2004 Edition (April 24, 2004). They noted that some observers of trial practice consulted have contended that:

"Two studies conducted for the American Bar Association provide evidence that lawyers are less likely now than in the past to be honing their trial skills in a courtroom"

"There are a lot of people who call themselves trial lawyers who haven't had a verdict in a long time."

"Some contend that settlements lead to more settlements, as lawyers who have seen little courtroom action develop a fear of going to trial and negotiate settlements that may not always be in the client's best interest"

While the legal community as a whole laments that the experienced trial attorney is a dying breed, Faulkner Law Firm counts "trial experience" as an asset for the firm and its clients. David Faulkner is one of only four practicing Rockford trial attorneys who is a Fellow the American College of Trial Lawyers - - the nation's premiere, invitation only, trial lawyers association to which no more than 1% of attorneys in a given jurisdiction may be admitted. Trial experience, and a reputation for success, has even prompted some clients to request that the Office "step in" at the late stages of a suit to try the case "worked up" by other counsel. The clients of Faulkner Law Firm appreciate the subtle, but significant, difference between a trial attorney and a litigator.