One of the first things I tell a new client is to choose your battles carefully. It's important to realistically assess the issues you feel you must win, versus those issues you can concede. That's a basic point of strategy, and one people that, initially at least, surprisingly overlook.

Another thing I tell them is that there are problems that the courts cannot solve. It's frustrating to hear, but it can take several months and even years, before a complex case can be litigated to its conclusion. We've come a long way in Pennsylvania with accumulated case law, especially as it relates to complex compensation and valuation of closely held businesses. And that has all helped. But no court system has sufficient resources to speed any case, especially fact-intensive cases with many layers of issues, to a fast resolution.

That's why a properly researched and negotiated settlement will nearly always be the best possible outcome. In fact, my practice has always focused on pursuing a lasting and fair settlement, to every case. The fact is, when we have a case that's well researched and well prepared, the other side always feels the imperative to settle.

I devote significant effort to maintaining good working relationships with other lawyers. After nearly 20 years now I can say I know our legal community very well, and I can anticipate outcomes and processes based in part on the participants involved. For an experienced lawyer, I think that is one of the advantages of practicing in Pittsburgh.

Some people try to represent themselves or hire lawyers who dabble from time to time in divorce work. If there are sophisticated financial issues to resolve, all I can say is I think trying to be your own lawyer in that situation is a mistake. The fact is, that's the reason professionals and executives come to us. We are a boutique divorce firm with more experience and resources than any firm in the region. Our clients know that.

I chose to practice divorce law so I could apply a broad set of skills for my clients. I've been at this for a while now, and I can say I'm now realizing what I set out to do: I focus on resolving complex financial, compensation and tax issues for my clients.

I'm one of those people who loves coming to work every day. I feel a real satisfaction when my work allows my client to move on to better things in their lives. Divorce law is all I have ever practiced, and even after 20 years I still love what I'm doing. I think my clients can recognize that - and appreciate it.