Hello from my law office. My name is Cynthia Lifson and you may have seen my website, spoken with me on the phone, or even met me in person. If not, I do hope that one day our paths will cross. I am embarking on a new adventure (new at least for me!). I am starting a blog to develop a platform to discuss matters related to family law. While I can't give a participant on my blog specific legal advice about his or her particular situation, I am starting out by sharing my thoughts on how you might make a good legal connection if you ever have the need to work with an attorney. I do hope that this blog will evolve into a lively and interesting place that you will enjoy visiting.

Here is something that I'd like to share with you that I learned as a newbie attorney that may be helpful to you. When I began my legal career, I was in awe of the enormity and complexity of the law. I was so overwhelmed! Fortunately, I had the benefit of speaking with a seasoned attorney who said to me (in a wonderful Southern drawl that reminded me of the Atticus Finch character in To Kill a Mockingbird), "Cynthia, if you know the facts of your case, you will be fine. The law will suggest itself to you."

This insight has stayed with me throughout the years and helped me navigate through my cases. It's true that the law contains technicalities that require time and attention to master and that certain documents containing "legalese" can be confusing and may require explanation. However, once the facts of a situation are clear, we can understand and appreciate how the law may be applied to resolve a dispute, especially in matters related to families.

When I meet a new client at my Columbia or Owings Mills office, I ask many questions about his or her situation. Because I deal with family law, these questions may seem intrusive. They touch on very sensitive subjects related to reasons for divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, or marital property. It's not easy to talk to a stranger about such private matters. But I have found over and over again, that the client who is open about his or her situation with the attorney, who prepares for a legal consultation by writing down questions in advance, and who participates in the work associated with the case has a better result than the client who does not get involved. Thoughtful client preparation along with your personal evaluation of the attorney you meet will assist in making a good legal connection.