Attorneys in Action

How to Collect from a Stubborn Client

This one’s easy: you just kidnap him until the family pays the ransom, I mean fees.  Works best on the client’s wedding day. Police in Waco, Texas, said that Paula Allen, a 51-year-old attorney who had defended Rolando Castelan from…


Lack of Courtesy Costs Lawyer $18,950

Last week, the California Court of Appeal upheld a $18,950 fine against Thomas Mesereau, Jr., for failing to be "civil and courteous in communicating with adversaries." Specifically, Mesereau, who was representing Robert Blake in his murder trial, called his adversary…


Drinking Problem Suspected for Drunk Attorney

On Monday, a 59-year-old attorney was jailed for lawyering while intoxicated.  The court found the man in contempt of court for showing up drunk, and ordered him held without bail at least until Thursday, when he is scheduled to appear…



Lawyer’s Ketchup Email Circles the Globe

Yet another lesson taught by the internet on what not to write in an email. In 2005, a senior associate at Baker & McKenzie's London office became a bit irritated with a secretary who had allegedly spilled ketchup on his…