- The managing director of a start-up was urgently seeking legal support due to legal problems.
- The former lawyer had left chaos in his wake and the start-up was under time pressure.
- The author sees himself not only as a lawyer, but also as a partner to his clients.
- A strategy was developed together and a fair settlement reached.
- The main objective was to help the client focus on its core business.
- The author emphasizes the importance of trust and genuine partnerships.
- As a lawyer, it is crucial to actively live the values that you represent.
Good evening, dear readers! Today I would like to tell you a little anecdote instead of discussing an abstract legal case or verdict as usual. It’s about humanity, trust and the art of being a true partner.
Meeting an exciting startup
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting the CEO of an exciting startup at a Medianet event in Berlin. He was intrigued by my unusual combination as a nerd and a lawyer, and we exchanged contact information.
An unexpected call
Then, completely unexpectedly, I received a call from him. He was desperate. His startup was in legal trouble and the previous lawyer had resigned. He desperately needed help and was looking for someone with not only legal expertise, but also an understanding of the technical side of his business.
Time pressure and chaos
To further complicate the situation, a court case was pending less than a week after the call. He now had no lawyer, the colleague had left a lot of mess, and it was hard for him to find a replacement. The clock was ticking and the nerves were on edge.
More than just a lawyer
At such times, it is easy to take advantage of the situation and charge high fees. But that would not be in the spirit of my philosophy. I firmly believe that as an attorney I not only provide legal services, but I am also a partner and supporter to my clients.
I took the time to carefully review the documents and familiarize myself with the case. Together with the managing director, we worked out a strategy and I negotiated with the other side. Finally, we were able to reach a fair settlement.
Satisfaction and focus on the essentials
Yes, I may not have received the maximum in fees under the RVG. But that was not my goal either. My goal was to help my client solve his problems so he could get back to his core business. And that is exactly what we have achieved. The startup is satisfied and can now move forward with its business without the distractions of legal disputes.
A true partner
This anecdote reinforced for me the importance of not just putting words on a website, but living them. As an attorney, I pride myself on being a trusted partner to my clients. I am convinced that this is the way we can grow not only as individuals but also as a society.
So the next time you read on a website that someone wants to be a trusting partner, ask yourself: are they living it? And if you yourself are in a position to offer support, remember: Be more than words. Be a true partner.
In today’s fast-paced world, where everything often happens at the last minute, it is even more important that we can rely on each other. My client needed someone who understood not only his legal concerns, but also his technical concerns. He needed someone willing to dig in and act quickly.
I am glad that I could be there for him during this critical time. It fills me with pride and joy to know that I have been able to make a difference not only as a lawyer, but also as a person.
Let’s all work to build true partnerships and live the values we espouse in our daily actions. Because at the end of the day, it’s the relationships and trust that count.
With this in mind, I wish you an inspiring evening and hope that this anecdote will encourage you to always do your best and be a reliable partner for those around you.
