Finding a path to healthy conflict
Spencer Cox, the new chairman of the National Governors Association, is promoting the idea of “healthy conflict.” The Utah governor has become concerned about the growing problem of toxic arguments […]
The challenge of first impressions
I doubt I’m the only one who grew up hearing, “Make sure you make a good first impression.” At the time, I probably wondered whether that was my parents just […]
Maryland lawyers and student loan debt
According to the American Bar Association, the average law school graduate owes approximately $160,000 in educational loan debt after graduation. In Maryland, the starting median salary for first-year lawyers is […]
The character witness in court
Credibility at trial is essential. The outcome of many cases often hinges on whom the judge or jury believes. One way to demonstrate your client’s credibility is to call a […]
How to stop kids from vaping
At a recent congressional hearing, Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Washington, expressed concern about the illegal Chinese-manufactured flavored, disposable vaping products widely available nationwide. He noted that many of these products are made […]
CEOs want you back in the office. Why?
To my fellow CEOs, with all due respect, maybe this “back to office” mandate is more about your comfort than team performance. The most recent American Time Use survey shows […]
What to do when leaving a law firm
Departing a law firm is stressful for clients, departing lawyers and the law firm. Fortunately, Maryland provides good guidance on ethical departures.
Generative AI in law: Resistance is futile
I started writing this column on legal technology in 2007, and over the years I’ve noticed a pattern. Time and time again, whenever a new technology comes along that impacts […]
The doctrine of ‘apparent agency’
In July 2022, Maryland’s highest appellate court issued a decision in Williams v. Dimensions Health Corporation, dealing with a hospital’s liability for the negligence of an independent contractor treating emergencies […]
The Taco Tuesday tussle
Some fast food trademarks make me hungry. Taco Bell’s recent fight with Taco John’s over Taco Tuesday® did so. But trademark battles between two fast food chains aside, I thought […]
Relaunching the Red Line
On June 15, Gov. Wes Moore, together with federal, state and local officials, business leaders, and community representatives standing at the West Baltimore MARC station, announced his commitment to building […]
Deep distrust of government is dangerous
The majority of Americans distrust the federal government. They don’t believe the government helps people or listens to them. It may be a surprise to learn that, with few exceptions, Americans […]


















