Lie or lose or lie and lose?

Jonny Marray was trying to become the first British man to win a Wimbledon doubles title since 1936. He and his partner were unseeded and the most they had previously won at a competition was $800. Yet, there they were in the 2012 Wimbledon men’s doubles finals. They were tied at one set apiece and in a tiebreaker for the … Read More

The benefits of courtroom trials

Last Friday, my client sat next to me, hyperventilating. The jury had returned with its verdict and the judge’s clerk was reading it. A three-year process had just culminated with a jury trial . . . His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy There’s vomit on his sweater already, mom’s spaghetti He’s nervous, but on the surface he … Read More

Appeals – Is the case ever really over?

The ball was in the air, less than 30 seconds to go, and it was fourth and 12. BYU quarterback Riley Nelson had thrown up a prayer to his favorite wide receiver Cody Hoffman. The game was over for all practical purposes. Hoffman caught the ball for a 47 yard completion good enough for first down at the Utah 34 … Read More

Collecting peach of mind

“Hello,” the man grumbled into the phone. “Mr. Samonsite?” “Yes?” “This is Lloyd Christmas from Vandelay Industries. Are you still living on First Avenue?” “Yes. Who is this?” “I’m calling regarding the $58.42 you owe for the Shake Weight Total Fitness Program.” “I don’t have the money right now.” “Where do you work?” “I don’t have to tell you that.” … Read More

Taking control of your legacy

There I was with my mother-in-law’s recently purchased refrigerator ready to return it to the retailer where it was purchased. A friend and I had successfully transported it back to the store. My marching orders were clear: I needed to be prepared to press hard for a return because my mother in-law had already plugged in the refrigerator, an occurrence … Read More

What does it take to make ‘organic foods’ organic?

The Organic Trade Association’s 2012 annual industry survey found that sales of all organic products grew 9.5 percent in 2011. Organic food and beverage sales totaled more than 29.2 billion dollars in 2011 and continue to grow. There are “organic” farms in all 50 states and consumers continue to demand safe, natural foods. Organic refers to the way agricultural products … Read More

Make Legal Resolutions for 2013

The new year brings new challenges and the opportunity to make new resolutions. As a farmer or rancher you are faced with many legal issues that affect your ability to make a living and carry on with your lifestyle. Here are just a few challenges that you are faced with: 1. Taxes. It is unknown at the time I write … Read More