January 2, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Happy New Year! Please note that our office will be closed on January 19th in honor of the Martin Luther King Day holiday. In addition, our office will be closed February 12th – 16th. I will be in Phoenix during that time, enjoying some sun and visiting my niece.
On February 11th, along with Lori Rath of Rath Law & Mediation, PLLC, I will be speaking at a continuing legal education course sponsored by the King County Bar Association’s Solo and Small Practice Section. The topic concerns the Washington Supreme Court’s recent revisions to the Rules of Professional Conduct governing lawyers’ actions. These changes involve how flat fees may be charged, and are designed to ensure that lawyers fully and fairly communicate with their clients regarding these fees. If you have any questions regarding this topic, please feel free to contact my office.
As a small business, we rely primarily upon referrals in order to grow and sustain our practice. As we start 2009, please keep our office in mind. We would greatly appreciate any referrals in the areas of business law, estate planning and probate!
. . . and then the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was
more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ~ Anais Nin
February 2, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on February 12th – 16th. I will be in Phoenix during that time, enjoying some sun and visiting my niece.
On February 11th, along with Lori Rath of Rath Law & Mediation, PLLC, I will be speaking at a continuing legal education course sponsored by the King County Bar Association’s Solo and Small Practice Section. The topic concerns the Washington Supreme Court’s recent revisions to the Rules of Professional Conduct governing lawyers’ actions. These changes involve how flat fees may be charged, and are designed to ensure that lawyers fully and fairly communicate with their clients regarding these fees. If you have any questions regarding this topic, please feel free to contact my office.
In March 13, 2009, I will start the day by presenting at a continuing legal education course entitled, “Succeeding in Tough Times: A Survival Guide For Lawyers & Firms.” Also, on March 26th, I will be speaking at a continuing legal education course sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association on “Lincoln and Professionalism.” I look forward to these presentations, and hope that my input will be helpful to the lawyers who are attending.
For your information, enclosed is an article I wrote with Lori Rath, which was published in January’s King County Bar Bulletin: “Supreme Court Approves Abridged Flat Fee Rules.”
I have tried 99 times and have failed, but on the 100th time came success. ~ Albert Einstein
March 2, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
On February 11th, along with Lori Rath of Rath Law & Mediation, PLLC, I taught a continuing legal education course sponsored by the King County Bar Association’s Solo and Small Practice Section involving ethics and the Rules of Professional Conduct governing how lawyers interact with their clients.
On March 13, 2009, I will start the day by presenting at a continuing legal education course entitled, “Succeeding in Tough Times: A Survival Guide For Lawyers & Firms.” Also, on March 26th, I will be speaking at a continuing legal education course, again focused on ethics, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association titled “Lincoln and Professionalism.” While a college student in Idaho, I interned for former Lt. Governor and Attorney General David H. Leroy. Mr. Leroy is a Lincoln scholar and author, and currently chairs the Idaho Lincoln Bicentennial Commission. At my request, the Washington State Bar Association is sponsoring Mr. Leroy to participate in the “Lincoln and Professionalism” course. I greatly look forward to both of these presentations, and hope that my input will be helpful to the lawyers who are attending.
On April 30th, I will be participating in a seminar entitled “Preparing Your Estate” with financial planner Debbi Vanselow of Edward Jones, Crown Hill office, Seattle. The seminar will be held at 10:00 a.m. at Ms. Vanselow’s office, 9776 Holman Rd. NW, Ste. 106, Seattle WA 98117. For more information or to RSVP for the seminar, please contact my office.
Our mind is the most valuable possession we have. The quality of our lives is, and will be, a reflection of how well we develop, train, and utilize this precious gift. ~ Brian Tracy
April 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
On March 13, 2009, I presented information regarding our current economic climate as a featured speaker at a continuing legal education course entitled, “Succeeding in Tough Times: A Survival Guide For Lawyers & Firms.” As the first presenter, I explained the dramatic impact the economy has had upon law firms. Although much of this information is reported only in legal publications, the number of layoffs in my profession over the last six months has been truly astonishing. According to a recent survey by the American Bar Association, the average billing rate of a partner in a large law firm has risen to $451 per hour. Many clients simply cannot afford to pay rates at this level, and have “jumped ship” to mid-sized or small firms. This transition has caused a shift in my profession which, although painful for the lawyers involved in the layoffs, I believe is ultimately healthy for the legal profession.
On March 26th, I participated as a panelist at a continuing legal education course, focused on ethics, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association titled “Lincoln and Professionalism.” We’ve heard much recently about Lincoln’s role as President, but have heard little about his strong sense of professional ethics as an attorney. In fact, Lincoln had over 5,000 jury trials and also served as a pro tem judge. This seminar focuses on the major ethical tenets that Lincoln applied to his legal career, such as diligence and honesty. As a panelist, I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about Lincoln, and also to show his values still hold true today.
The two estate planning seminars mentioned in my prior newsletter with Debbi Vanselow of Edward Jones have been cancelled, due to Ms. Vanselow’s decision to take a sabbatical this spring.
Enclosed is my article published in the March edition of the King County Bar Bulletin entitled, “Setting Things Right With Your Light”
The past is over . . . forget it. The future holds hope . . . reach for it. ~ Charles R. Swindoll
May 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on June 15 – 17th. I will be in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho visiting family during this time.
For your information, enclosed is a copy of the article “Pet Trusts – Providing for Your Pup After You’re Gone” (pdf) by Rebecca Wallick, J.D. This article was published in the March/April issue of The Bark: The Dog Culture Magazine. I am pleased to be quoted in this article! As a pet owner, I believe that it is responsible and right to put a plan in place, making sure your pet is taken care of if you happen to die first. Pets are part of the family! I am a member of the Animal Law Section of the Washington State Bar Association, and I enjoy working with pet owners to incorporate pet care into the estate planning process. If you have any questions about making to make sure your pet is cared for when you die, please feel free to contact me. Also, please visit my website regarding Your Pet In Your Will, to find a form you can download and complete. This form helps you provide instructions so, if anything happens to you, your designated friend or family member will be able to step in and have full knowledge of your pet’s preferences and health care needs.
On May 9th, at the Columbia Tower Club, I am pleased to be speaking to participants of the Accomplishment Coaching Program on “Business Law Essentials.” And, on May 13th, along with Penelope Bell of Simply a Moment (www.simplyamoment.com), I will be speaking to the King County Bar Association’s Solo and Small Practice Section on “Reducing Stress, Working Effectively & Surviving This Economy.”
There is always a better way. ~ Thomas Edison
June 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on June 15th – 17th. I will be in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho visiting family during this time. Our office will also be closed on July 3rd for the federal holiday.
On May 9th, along with CPA Carmelita Logerwell of the firm Anderson ZurMuehlen, I enjoyed speaking to the participants of the Accomplishment Coaching Program on “Business Law Essentials.” Our presentation felt more like a town hall meeting due to the energetic participation of the “coaches in training!” On May 13th, along with Penelope Bell of Simply a Moment (www.simplyamoment.com), I spoke to the King County Bar Association’s Solo and Small Practice Section on “Reducing Stress, Working Effectively & Surviving This Economy.”
Enclosed is a copy of my article published in the April 2009 King County Bar Bulletin entitled ”Economic Crisis Ups Ante for Pro Bono Commitment.” Please read this article, and consider making a donation to the Equal Justice Coalition. As Washington citizens increasingly face complex legal issues such as avoiding foreclosure and navigating the often complex regulations involving social services, funding for civil legal aid is more important than ever.
On a personal note, I wanted to let all of you know that my beloved cat and office mate, Rabble, passed away on May 28th at age 19. Many of my estate planning clients have heard about Rabble, in the context of our discussions about how to address their pet related concerns within their estate planning documents. Rabble will be missed!
The habit of persistence is the habit of victory. ~ Herbert Kaufman
July 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on July 3rd for the federal holiday. In addition, the office will also be closed on August 14th for a vacation day for our office.
Enclosed is a copy of my portion of an article published in the June 2009 issue of the King County Bar Bulletin, “Collaborative Wisdom in Tough Times.” I hope you find it to be an interesting summary regarding how the current economic crisis is impacting the legal services industry, both nationally and on a local level.
People with goals succeed because they know where they are going. ~ Earl Nightingale
August 3, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on August 14th for a scheduled vacation day. Next month, our office will be closed September 7th for Labor Day, and will also be closed on September 24th – 25th for vacation days.
On September 22nd, I will be speaking at a continuing legal education course focused on ethics, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association, entitled “Lincoln and Professionalism.” I also participated in this program in March. I am honored to continue to be involved with this inspiring program, which focuses on the exemplary values and talents Lincoln brought to his law practice.
Due to my participation in this CLE, coupled with the previously mentioned office closures, no client appointments will be scheduled for the week of September 21st – 25th.
Resolve to be honest at all events and if in your own judgment you cannot be an honest lawyer,
resolve to be honest without being a lawyer.
The leading rule for the lawyer, as for the man of every other calling, is diligence.
Leave nothing for tomorrow which can be done today.
~ A. Lincoln
September 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on September 7th for Labor Day, and on September 11th, 24th – 25th for vacation days. In October, our office will be closed on October 1st – 2nd due to my multiple presentations, October 12th for Columbus Day, and also on October 15th – 16th for vacation days.
On September 12th, I will present two courses for entrepreneurs at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Biz Fair 2009. Please see www.bizfair.org for more information.
On September 22nd, I will be speaking at a continuing legal education course focused on ethics, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association, entitled “Lincoln and Professionalism.” I also participated in this program in March. For more information, please contact my office or visit the Washington State Bar Association’s website. Due to my participation in this CLE, coupled with the previously mentioned office closures, no client appointments will be scheduled for the week of September 21st – 25th.
On October 2nd, I am pleased to team with Dena Levine of DML Insurance to offer a presentation on business succession. Our presentation is sponsored by the Women’s Network for Entrepreneurial Training (“WNET”), through the Women’s Business Center’s Community Capital Development. For more information, please contact my office.
Also, on October 2nd, I will be speaking with Lori Rath of Rath Law and Mediation at the 54th Annual Estate Planning Seminar, a continuing legal education course sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association. Our topic is: “Successful Management of a Small Firm Estate Planning Practice: General Advice Along with Tips for Survival in Challenging Economic Times.” I’m excited to be speaking at this seminar, which is one of the largest continuing legal education programs in Washington. For more information, please contact my office or visit the Washington State Bar Association’s website.
If you have a burning desire and a plan to take action,
there is absolutely nothing you cannot achieve. ~ Thomas J. Vilord
October 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
September 8th marked the 10th anniversary of opening up my own law firm! We are proud of reaching this milestone, and also appreciative of your support. It’s been a pleasure to work with all of you.
Please note that our office will be closed on October 1st – 2nd due to my multiple presentations, October 12th for Columbus Day, and also on October 15th – 16th for vacation days. In November, our office will be closed on November 11th in honor of Veteran’s Day, and also on November 26th – 27th for Thanksgiving.
On September 12th, I presented courses for entrepreneurs at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Biz Fair 2009. I enjoyed teaching business owners about business law essentials and the selection of a business entity.
On September 22nd, I spoke at a continuing legal education course focused on ethics, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association, entitled “Lincoln and Professionalism.” This continuing legal education course, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association, provides ethics credits for attorneys. It focuses on the professionalism and other qualities that Lincoln brought into his long and accomplished law practice.
On October 2nd, I am pleased to team with Dena Levine of DML Insurance to offer a presentation on business succession. Our presentation is sponsored by the Women’s Network for Entrepreneurial Training (“WNET”), through the Women’s Business Center’s Community Capital Development.
Also, on October 2nd, I will be speaking with Lori Rath of Rath Law and Mediation at the 54th Annual Estate Planning Seminar, a continuing legal education course sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association. This program, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association, is one of the longest running and best attended programs of its type in the country.
On October 30th, I will be speaking at the King County Bar Association’s continuing legal education course, “Solo/Small Firm Bootcamp.”
Each day we must strive for constant and never ending improvement. ~ Anthony Robbins
November 2, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Please note that our office will be closed on November 11th in honor of Veteran’s Day, and also on November 25th – 27th for Thanksgiving. Also, I want to give all of you advanced notice that our office will be closed January 14th – 22nd.
In October, I enjoyed making presentations on several interesting topics. On October 2nd, I teamed with Dena Levine of DML Insurance and Linda Teachout of the accounting firm of Anderson ZurMuehlen for a presentation on business succession sponsored by the Women’s Network for Entrepreneurial Training (“WNET”). If you die unexpectedly, do you have a plan in place to transfer your business? If you need some assistance in working through a plan and setting it up, please give us a call.
Also, on October 2nd, I was honored to speak at the 54th Annual Estate Planning Seminar, a continuing legal education course sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association. This program, sponsored by the Washington State Bar Association, is one of the longest running and best attended programs of its type in the country. On October 30th, I spoke at the King County Bar Association’s continuing legal education course, “Solo/Small Firm Bootcamp.”
On December 10th, along with Ann Guinn of G&P Associates, I will be both co-chairing and presenting at the Washington State Bar Association’s continuing legal education course entitled, “Strategic Solutions for Solo and Small Firm Practitioners.” Due to my involvement with this program, our office will be closed on this day.
Dreamers look into the future and see promise.
Those who do not dream only see the future. ~ D Elder.
December 1, 2009
NEWS FROM THE DESK OF STACEY L. ROMBERG
Happy Holidays! Please note that our office will be closed January 14th – 22nd. During this period, Lisa Vargo will be available to assist our existing clients with on-going work. During most of this time, I will be in Phoenix enjoying the sun and cheering on my niece as she runs her first marathon.
On December 10th, along with Ann Guinn of G&P Associates, I will be both co-chairing and presenting at the Washington State Bar Association’s continuing legal education course entitled, “Strategic Solutions for Solo and Small Firm Practitioners.” Due to my involvement with this program, our office will be closed on this day. For more information, please visit the Bar’s website at www.wsba.org.
On January 21st, I am excited to partner with Debbie Whitlock of Sound Financial Partners for an EWomenNetwork event entitled, “Your Family – Your Business – Your Legacy: Dying with Clarity in a Culture of Denial.” Our one hour presentation, which will be held at Maggiano’s Little Italy in Bellevue, will focus on key issues for business owners to get their “house in order,” including estate planning, business succession and insurance. If interested, please contact my office or EWomenNetwork for more details (www.ewomennetwork.com). The event will be followed by an intensive workshop on January 30th for EWomen members in order to explore these topics in more detail and develop a plan of action.
I understand that the holidays are an especially hectic time. However, I ask that you please remember to pay your bill before the end of this year. Remember, for businesses, legal expenses paid by the end of 2009 will be considered a deductible expense for purposes of calculating your final 2010 federal tax liability.
Fear is met and destroyed with courage. Again and again when the struggle seems hopeless and all opportunity lost, the one with a little more courage, and a little more effort will have victory. ~ James F. Bell
Phone: (206) 784-5305
