Join us for a conversation with Edward F. Cohn, a veteran criminal defense attorney who launched his solo practice right out of law school. Edward shares how court-appointed cases, courtroom observation, and strong mentorship shaped his early career. He reflects on the evolution of legal marketing, lessons from a Harvard negotiation course, and the value of maintaining respectful relationships with opposing counsel. Candid and practical, this episode offers real-world insights into the challenges and rewards of running a solo law firm.
Show notes:
(0:11) Introduction to Edward F. Cohn, his criminal defense practice, and his professional accolades.
(0:50) Overview of his practice in Tucson, focusing on criminal defense for misdemeanors and felonies, often for local college students.
(2:07) How he got into criminal defense: starting his own firm right out of law school and taking court appointments to gain experience.
(3:35) The decision to go solo, encouraged by a mentor, and the appeal of being his own boss.
(4:41) The fear and anxiety of starting a practice from scratch and the importance of having good mentors.
(5:06) Learning the ropes as a new solo: The invaluable and practical tip of going to the courthouse to watch hearings.
(7:48) The benefits of observing court: learning procedure, getting to know judges, and navigating different courtroom personalities.
(8:34) Learning from other attorneys in court, including the calm and effective demeanor of famed lawyer Jeff Fieger.
(9:46) Setting up the business: how a "Law Practice Management" class in law school provided the blueprint for his firm.
(10:51) Early business logistics: using mentors' conference rooms and courthouse meeting rooms to keep overhead low.
(11:56) The timeline for success: feeling comfortable after three years and feeling seasoned after seven.
(13:35) The evolution of legal marketing from Yellow Pages and early online lead generation to modern strategies.
(14:59) Current marketing strategy: the essential role of online legal directories like Avvo and Lawyers.com.
(16:49) Firm administration and management: keeping overhead low and using legal assistants or law clerks on an as-needed basis.
(18:32) Core traits of a great litigator: comfort in the courtroom and being a strong negotiator.
(18:41) Enhancing negotiation skills through an intensive executive education course at Harvard.
(19:57) The number one negotiation tip: "The art of negotiation is letting the other party have it your way."
(20:33) The power of building cordial relationships with prosecutors and advocating effectively through diligence and respect.
(23:53) Key traits for a successful solo practitioner: an entrepreneurial mindset and comfort with the "feast or famine" nature of the business.
(25:25) The necessity of a healthy appetite for risk, adaptability, and emotional resilience.
(26:54) How to contact Edward F. Cohn (website, phone, and social media).
(28:28) Final thoughts: Finding motivation and a "buzz" from getting the best possible outcome for his clients.
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Music: lofi type beat "flower market" by snoozy beats.
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