This episode features Michael J. Ash, a partner at Carlin, Ward, Ash & Heiart LLC and a certified civil trial attorney specializing in the niche field of eminent domain and real estate value litigation. Michael shares his unconventional journey from transactional law, where he deciphered 400-year-old deeds with descriptions like "easterly as the cow walked," to becoming a leading trial attorney in New Jersey. He reveals the creative strategies he uses to make complex property concepts compelling to a jury, including using Google Earth flyovers to create a "CSI magic" effect in the courtroom. Michael also discusses his pivotal career shift from representing the government ("the black hat") to defending property owners ("the white hat"), the power of attorney referrals as a primary marketing tool, and why finding the right business partner is the most critical skill for any firm owner.
(0:00) Introduction: Michael J. Ash’s specialization in eminent domain and real estate litigation.
(1:49) How a background in transactional law became the foundation for a career in niche litigation.
(5:28) The challenge of litigating 400-year-old deeds with descriptions like "as the cow walked."
(6:44) How to make complex real estate concepts understandable and engaging for a jury.
(8:33) The "CSI Magic": Using Google Earth flyover videos as a persuasive courtroom tool.
(11:10) Why Michael refuses to outsource trial demonstratives and insists on maintaining full control.
(15:03) The Career Shift: From representing the government ("the black hat") to defending property owners ("the white hat").
(17:38) The biggest challenge in transitioning from being an employee to a firm owner.
(20:10) A marketing model built on relationships: How attorney referrals drive their business.
(24:19) The two factors that tell you exactly when it’s time to grow your firm and hire.
(26:04) The strategy of hiring a tax court clerk to build expertise and attract partner-level talent.
(30:30) The #1 skill for running a successful practice: Finding the right business partner.
(32:57) A framework for handling disagreements and making decisions with a partner.
(36:01) Michael’s take on AI, including a clever use of image generation for marketing case studies.
(39:12) Where to find and contact Michael J. Ash.
Show Notes:
Contact Michael's firm: https://carlinward.com/
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Music: lofi type beat "flower market" by snoozy beats.