We are extremely selective about the cases we take. If, based on the initial information we receive, there is little or no prospect for an appropriate claim, we turn down the case. But in a sense, that decision can also benefit anyone who comes to us. For one thing, they will know where they stand. We give a straightforward analysis of each case's prospects. Most importantly, there is simply no excuse for creating - and then dashing - expectations.

We meet with plenty of people who ask straight away what their case is "worth". That's a question I cannot answer with a dollar figure. We simply won't do that, especially at the beginning of what can be a long and unpredictable process.

We pride ourselves on being responsive to our clients, making it a point to return calls quickly. We do our utmost to move cases along rapidly - cases that can take five or six years, we may resolve in two or three. We employ a practical approach to every case - if I believe a settlement offer is horrible, I'll say so. And if I think it's terrific, I won't hesitate to say that, too.

I particularly respect the financial equation of what we do, the time value of money, and how decisions and actions impact our clients. Waiting is a cost. A case settled for $1 million today is worth much more to the client than a case settled for $1.2 million five years from now. We work to achieve the strongest resolution - in the shortest time possible.

The political environment we practice in has gotten more difficult, more challenging. There are powerful insurance and business interests pushing against the rights of working people in New York State. That's why I am active on the policy level, to preserve the legal rights of our clients.

Marvin Salenger and Bob Sack are exceptional trial lawyers with outstanding records, and without a doubt have been superb mentors over the years. But they would be the first to say that I have my own style, and my own record. We share this: Once our firm takes a case no one - no one - will ever out-prepare or outspend us on a case.

We work hard to achieve meaningful results for our clients, and restore for them some security and normalcy in their lives after a traumatic event. There's a lot of satisfaction in that.

My father always urged me to pursue only what makes me happy. This I do - I believe my clients recognize that, and appreciate my conviction on their behalf.