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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