Lawyers of Omaha

WHAT MAKES A GOOD LAWYER?

Factors For consideration

Everyone will need a good lawyer at some point. As a 14-year member of the Nebraska Bar, former public defender, and career prosecutor in a high-volume area of law, I am reminded daily of what makes a good lawyer by the competence and professionalism of those I work with.

A good lawyer is trustworthy. While it sounds simple, finding one is more complicated. People can live a majority of their lives without needing a lawyer, but when needed, the choice of whom to hire can have profound positive and negative consequences.

The legal community in Omaha is small. To provide context, the Nebraska Supreme Court swore in 110 new lawyers in September 2020. Out of those 110, fewer than half will work in Omaha. Lawyers here know each other, and the best way to hire a good lawyer is to ask a trusted friend in the Omaha legal community. One’s divorce lawyer may not be right to handle one’s estate planning, but he or she can recommend the right person.

The internet, on the other hand, is perilous. There are costly services available that block and dispute all negative reviews. Most attorneys that have a perfect average use these services.

One should also be wary of firms that advertise highly. There are likely some good attorneys that work there, but determining which ones are good is difficult without more information.

Once must choose a lawyer that is right for him or her. One’s relationship with his or her lawyer must work on a professional and personal level.

One should also discuss, or even set, expectations with their lawyer at the outset of his or her case, which includes discussing all costs and fee structure. A client must be upfront on what he or she wants/needs from the case.

A good lawyer will always give a potential client the honest answers he or she needs.

HIGHTOWER REFF LAW

At Hightower Reff Law, working together isn’t just a philosophy, it’s their daily practice. With a resolute mission to help their clients move forward in life, the results they achieve are made possible by their dedication to steadfast teamwork.

The attorneys and staff know that the types of cases they handle can threaten everything their clients hold dear, which is why they draw from the unique experiences and specialized knowledge of their entire team.

In matters of divorce and family law, estate planning, criminal defense, immigration law, business law and contracts, and workers’ compensation, their team strives to empower people by offering straightforward legal advice and strategies—tirelessly working on behalf of their clients’ best interests and legal outcomes.

As the team celebrates 10 years of practice and growth, one project they are especially excited about is their newly launched Lady Lawyer League podcast.

As lawyers, they often feel like superheroes when given the opportunity to help people through some of the more challenging times in their lives. Their podcast gives them the opportunity to educate, share advice, and pass along wisdom that may prove invaluable to its listeners—stories of what it’s like being a lady lawyer, an entrepreneur, and a little (maybe a lot) about the law.

Most importantly, the success experienced by Hightower Reff Law allows them to support their community in service via a diverse range of volunteer efforts.

As they reflect on the past 10 years, they are grateful for the support they have had, allowing them to continue to serve with confidence, clarity, and unwavering commitment.

Hightower Reff Law

402.932.9550 10110 Nicholas St #102 Omaha, NE 68114 hrlawomaha.com

McGILL GOTSDINER WORKMAN & LEPP

Founded in 1975, McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp has been serving commercial enterprises and individual clients in a broad range of civil practice areas in the Midwest. Integrity, expertise and compassion form the foundation for long-term client relationships and drive an exceptionally high-quality work product. As strategic problem solvers, they take a collaborative approach to their clients legal challenges and business opportunities. The firm has had a hand in the growth of many startup companies and counseled generations of business owners through the various stages of evolution. Twenty-two attorneys contribute to the tradition of excellence in the modern legal landscape. McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp takes pride in serving all those who entrust their legal needs to them, whether long standing or new clients.

McGill Gotsdiner Workman & Lepp

11404 W. Dodge Rd., Suite 500 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 mgwl.com Christopher A. Vacanti – Family Law Attorney William L. Finocchiaro – Family Law Attorney Suzanne M. Carns – Family Law Paralegal

VACANTI SHATTUCK, ATTORNEYS

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ttorneys Christopher A. Vacanti, and William L. Finocchiaro are partners in the Omaha family law firm of Vacanti Shattuck Attorneys.

Vacanti is a founding member of the firm and has been practicing family law for 30 years. Finocchiaro has been with the Firm for eight years, and was named Partner in 2021. Paralegal Suzanne M. Carns rounds out the team, and has been with the Firm for more than 10 years, providing invaluable assistance to Vacanti and Finocchiaro.

The Firm’s focus is on helping people navigate issues related to divorce, custody, parenting time, support, modification, and other family law related matters.

As strong, reasonable advocates for their clients—during what may be one of their most challenging times—the team’s compassion, dedication, and experience are indispensable to people finding themselves in need of family law counsel. Vacanti and Finocchiaro are seasoned litigators, and with the assistance of Carns, are able to guide their clients through the court and trial process should a reasonable settlement be unattainable.

Vacanti has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America – Family Law for the past 10 years; Super Lawyers – Family Law for the past 10 years; and Best of Omaha –Family Law for the past 2 years. Finocchiaro has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch – Family Law for the past 2 years.

Vacanti and Finocchiaro are humbled by the recognition of their peers and community, and honor them through their continued dedication to providing their clients with top-of-the-line representation.

Vacanti Shattuck, Attorneys

2051 Harney St. Omaha, NE 68102 vsfamilylaw.com