More Than A Lawyer

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 30

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with AshLeigh Dunham, Senior Trial Referee for Jefferson County Family Court and former Partner at Magic City Law, LLC, a boutique firm focused on family law matters including divorce, custody, adoption, and estate planning.

AshLeigh has built her career advocating for families and children through some of their most complex and emotional legal challenges. With experience spanning family law, fertility law, and juvenile court, she brings a deeply personal perspective shaped by both her work on the bench and her own IVF journey. Known for her belief that clients are more than their case file, she approaches the law with compassion, clarity, and a strong commitment to helping others navigate difficult decisions with confidence.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* AshLeigh Dunham’s transition from 15 years in high-stress divorce litigation to building a practice helping families through fertility law

* Her five-year IVF journey, including IUI, multiple cycles, and the moment she realized care limitations in Alabama

* What fertility law actually involves, from donor agreements to surrogacy, and the legal frameworks required to “make families”

* The growing demand for fertility law in Alabama, where only a handful of attorneys handle these cases daily

* AshLeigh’s approach to managing stress through dance, yoga, journaling, and teaching other lawyers to prioritize mental health

* Why she chose to run for the Alabama Supreme Court following the IVF ruling and her call for broader perspectives in the legal system

Learn more about AshLeigh Dunham:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 29

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Leslie Rubio, Managing Partner at Rubio Law Firm. Leslie focuses her practice on serious injury, wrongful death, Dram Shop and business litigation claims in addition to fighting for access to justice for the immigrant population of Alabama.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Leslie’s personal-injury practice, including 18-wheeler and motorcycle cases, and serving Alabama’s immigrant community

* Guidance that injured people can access the courtroom regardless of immigration status

* The importance of seeking knowledgeable legal counsel when undocumented-status issues arise

* Leslie’s involvement with the Birmingham Bar Association, its CLE, networking, and community service, and why local bar membership helps build relationships and smoother case interactions

* Birmingham Bar service projects for Law Day and MLK Day, including reading in classrooms, donating books to students, “books to prisons,” and lawyers returning to local schools to share career paths

* Leslie’s leadership as Birmingham Bar president-elect and upcoming 2027 president

* Community arts support through Sidewalk Film Festival fundraising, including Salsa Showdown, and how to attend via sidewalkfest.org

* Support of Bare Hands, Inc. events like Taco Fest and Dia de los Muertos at Sloss Furnaces, emphasizing community arts and remembrance

* Balancing a small-firm practice with service through exercise, travel, recharging, and a firm culture that supports staff involvement in CLE and community activities

* Leslie’s definition of being “more than a lawyer” as prioritizing humanity and multiple roles in family, church, and community

Learn more about Leslie Rubio:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 28

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Courtney Leigh Winston, Esq., a personal injury attorney at Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen in Richmond, Virginia.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Courtney’s background in personal injury, criminal defense, and volunteering with Legal Aid

* Legal Aid’s role in providing civil legal services for low-income clients and its need for funding, donations, and legal professional volunteers (they offer training!)

* Courtney’s experience mentoring and encouraging future lawyers through the American Association for Justice and the National Plaintiff’s Law Student Association

* Courtney’s work with, and the importance of, Planned Parenthood of Virginia

* How Courtney balances volunteering with family and practice, crediting mentors and upbringing for instilling the importance of giving back

* Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen’s community initiatives, including an annual scholarship for high school seniors and a “Hometown Heroes” recognition program

Learn more about Courtney Leigh Winston, Esq.:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 27

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Shawn Cole, managing partner at Hill Hill Carter Franco Cole & Black where she has worked for nearly 25 of her 32 years of practicing law. Shawn is based in Montgomery, Alabama. The firm has other offices in Birmingham, Fairhope, and Kentucky.

Shawn practices law primarily in the workers' compensation area and is a mediator. While she loves the practice of law and mediating cases, she is passionate about her community and finding ways to serve those who are underserved, partnering with groups such as Flatline Community Coalition (on north side of town) or Strong Foundation (on the west side of town) to connect people who may have resources of time, talents, or money to support the boots on the ground ministries who are truly effective. Shawn loves that her family shares her passion for service and believes her children are so deeply moved to serve because of their involvement in local missions from early childhood.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* How Shawn Cole’s upbringing inspireD her lifelong commitment to community service

* The unique approach Shawn’s law firm takes to encourage volunteerism among its staff

* How organizations like Strong Foundation and Flatline Community Coalition are transforming the lives of at-risk youth in Montgomery

* A powerful story that illustrates the impact of mentorship and support on a young person’s future

* The ways Shawn Cole defines being “more than a lawyer” and how others can follow her example

Learn more about Shawn Cole:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 26

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Hunter Garnett, cowboy lawyer & managing partner of Garnett Patterson Injury Lawyers from Danville, Alabama. 

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * What inspired Hunter Garnett to pursue a career in personal injury law and how his background influenced his journey

 * How Hunter’s family became involved with Grace Ministries and the impact the organization has had in Guatemala

 * Ways Grace Ministries empowers Guatemalan youth through education and vocational training

 * How listeners can support Grace Ministries and contribute to its mission from afar

 * Why Hunter believes it is important for lawyers to be actively involved in their local communities and how he balances professional and personal life

Learn more about Hunter Garnett:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 25

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Tom Soldan, partner at Marquis Law Group. 

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 - Tom Soldan’s inspiration to pursue special education advocacy and how his background influenced this path

 - How the collaborative environment at Marquis Law Group benefits both attorneys and their clients

 - How Tom’s experience as a lawyer contributed to his role as a youth sports coach and mentor

 - The purpose and impact of The Thomas D. Horne Leadership in the Law Program (known commonly as Law Camp), a summer program for rising high school seniors in Loudoun County

 - How Tom defines being “more than a lawyer” and what motivates him to give back to his community

Learn more about Tom Soldan:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 24

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Ramiro Rodriquez, owner of a real estate company, a cigar bar, and a law firm. He came to America at the age of 7 and did not know English, yet managed to retire at the age of 47! 

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * Ramiro Rodriguez's journey from childhood in Mexico to becoming a lawyer in the United States in pursuit of the American Dream

 * Challenges Ramiro faced as a first-generation college student and how he overcome them to start his legal career and multiple businesses

 * Ramiro's involvement in his community, such as real estate and educational outreach

 * The significant entrepreneurial ventures that Ramiro has undertaken outside of his legal career, including his latest project in the cigar industry

 * How Ramiro's belief in helping others and maintaining a positive attitude reflects the core message of being "More Than a Lawyer"

Learn more about Ramiro Rodriquez:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 23

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Christopher Word of Word Family Law Group in Alabama.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The challenges and rewards of running a statewide family law practice

* Christopher’s approach to balancing the emotional turmoil in family law cases with compassion and effective client service

* Christopher's involvement with the Freedom Center, a homeless ministry and resource center in

Gadsden, Alabama, emphasizing its unique services like free showers and laundry for the homeless

* How Christopher integrates his faith, community service, and law practice, highlighting the importance of being "more than just a lawyer" by contributing positively to the community and maintaining a holistic approach to life.

Learn more about Christopher Word:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 23

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Patricia Barbarito, divorce lawyer & co-managing partner of Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno, PC. Patricia is also host of her own popular podcast Heartbreak & Hope with Pat Barbarito.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Pat Barbarito’s insights into her practice and philosophy on marriage and divorce

* Pat’s podcast, "Heartbreak and Hope," which explores various forms of heartbreak with an emphasis on finding hope

* Pat’s involvement with Eva's Village, a nonprofit aiding the homeless and those with food insecurity and addiction issues

* The importance of self-understanding, therapy, and leveraging legal skills for community service and personal growth

* The value of being authentic and present in both professional and personal endeavors, advising young lawyers to know themselves and to use their unique skillsets to make a broader impact.

Learn more about Patricia Barbarito:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 21

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Leon Hampton, Principal Attorney at Beasley Allen Law Firm, one of the country’s leading civil litigation firms, holding several national records for verdicts and settlements that have impacted both industries and the public.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Leon Hampton’s career transition from criminal law to civil law at Beasley Allen and the importance of community service at the firm

* Leon’s passionate involvement in pastoral work and various community programs at First Baptist Church of Greater Washington Park

* Leon’s role on the board of directors for Legal Services of Alabama and their recent successful expungement clinic

* The importance of lawyers serving as community leaders and the support from firms like Beasley Allen in making space for such efforts

Learn more about Leon Hampton:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Ep 20

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Johnny Joubert, principal of the personal injury firm, Joubert Law Firm.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Johnny’s military service experience 

* Joubert Law Firm’s focus on supporting veterans and first responders through scholarships and other community initiatives

* The specific needs of veterans, such as access to disability benefits and education scholarships, and the role of lawyers in helping veterans navigate these issues

* The importance of lawyers giving back to their communities and ways individuals can get involved in supporting veterans and first responders

Learn more about Johnny Joubert:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 19

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Laura dePaz Cabrera, principal of dePaz Cabrera Immigration Law, a practice solely focused on immigration and nationality law, excelling in family-based and employment-based visas, waivers, citizenship, consular processing of immigrant and non-immigrant visas and immigration solutions for victims of crimes and domestic violence.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Laura’s participation in the Junior League of Gainesville, an organization dedicated to supporting women and children through volunteerism and community projects such as the "Miracle on Main Street" event

* Laura’s passion for music and how she connects with her community by performing in a band alongside her family

* The importance of balancing professional life with personal interests and community engagement, embodying the essence of being "More Than A Lawyer."

Learn more about Laura dePaz Cabrera:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 18

In this episode of More Than a Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Tanya Jeffords, Attorney and Founder of Jeffords & Associates in Augusta, Georgia. Tanya’s law firm specializes in criminal defense, civil rights, employment, labor law, and personal injury cases. Beyond her legal practice, Tanya shares her passion for giving back to the community through initiatives like Dream Builders of America's Youth and the Frederick Douglass Mobile Reading Room, programs dedicated to inspiring young minds and preventing the school-to-prison pipeline.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Tanya’s journey in law and how Mercer Law School influenced her career

* The creation of Dream Builders and its impact on youth development

* The Frederick Douglass Mobile Reading Room and its mission to foster a love for reading

* How Tanya balances her thriving law practice with community service

* Her powerful message on finding balance through faith and service

Learn more about Tanya Jeffords :

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 17

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Evan Schwartz, Founder and Managing Partner of Schwartz, Conroy & Hack, PC, a law firm with a focus on representing businesses and individual policyholders in claims and lawsuits against insurance companies, ensuring they fulfill their promises.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Specializing in Insurance Dispute Litigation: Evan Schwartz talks about building a niche practice focused on representing clients in insurance disputes, particularly involving healthcare fraud and complex cases.

* Founding a Firm with a Client-First Approach: Evan Schwartz emphasizes his shift to representing policyholders, finding more meaning in helping individuals over defending corporations.

* Community Involvement and Pro Bono Work: Schwartz highlights his firm’s commitment to community service, including pro bono work and supporting charities like St. Jude's.

* Challenges of Running a Law Firm: Evan Schwartz discusses the challenges of managing a law firm, stressing mentorship, learning from mistakes, and strong team culture.

* Promoting a Culture of Service: Schwartz emphasizes fostering a service-oriented culture to enhance team morale and personal fulfillment.

Learn more about Evan Schwartz:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 16

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Jared Silberzahn, trial lawyer and founder of Bmore Attorneys, a personal injury firm in Towson, Maryland. Jared shares his journey into personal injury law and the firm’s commitment to community engagement. Tune in for his insights on the legal profession and the importance of giving back.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Unique Firm Philosophy: Jared Silberzahn talks about how the name "Bmore Attorneys" reflects both Baltimore's nickname and its mission to serve clients, team, and community.

* Community Engagement: Jared goes over the importance of community involvement, emphasizing the firm’s active support for causes like food insecurity and pediatric oncology.

* Transition to Plaintiff's Attorney: Jared mentions his shift from insurance defense to plaintiff's attorney, highlighting how this dual perspective enhances his advocacy for clients.

* Encouraging Team Participation: Jared emphasizes the firm’s culture of giving back by offering employees two hours of paid volunteer time each month to boost engagement and individual passions.

* Advice for Young Lawyers: Jared advises young lawyers to seek community involvement by connecting with friends and colleagues about their supported causes, emphasizing the impact of collective efforts.

Learn more about Jared Silberzahn:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 15

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Christine Hart, a partner at Hand Arendall Harrison Sale LLC in Mobile, Alabama, specializing in anti-discrimination and constitutional law. Christine is also a dedicated community volunteer and leads Stanford’s Alabama Alumni Interview Program.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Christine Hart's Legal Career: Christine Hart discusses her 13 years of legal practice, focusing on federal court litigation, labor and employment law, and more.

* Involvement with Stanford Alumni: Christine Hart talks about her role as a Stanford alum, where she interviews high school seniors and serves as the Alabama chair.

* Christine Hart's Role at FlightWorks Alabama: Christine Hart goes over her involvement with FlightWorks Alabama, a program that helps local students pursue aviation careers by providing technical training.

* Balancing Work and Volunteering: Christine Hart emphasizes how she balances her legal career with family life and volunteering.

* Christine Hart's Support from Hand Arendall: Christine Hart mentions that her law firm, Hand Arendall Harrison Sale LLC, encourages lawyers to participate in charitable and civic activities as part of their professional growth.

Learn more about Christine Hart

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 14

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Elizabeth Stryker, personal injury attorney at Bailey Glasser LLP. Liz advocates for victims of catastrophic injuries, using her courtroom experience and passion for justice to guide clients through challenging legal battles.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* ESI Expertise in Modern Litigation: Elizabeth Stryker talks about managing electronic discovery for Bailey Glasser, supporting both plaintiff and defense cases nationwide.

* ABA Law Day Initiative: Elizabeth Stryker emphasizes her work with ABA Law Day, engaging West Virginia students in civics education through creative contests.

* Mentoring Law Students: Elizabeth Stryker discusses mentoring law students at West Virginia University College of Law, helping them gain real-world legal experience.

* Community Involvement and Advocacy: Elizabeth Stryker mentions her involvement in the Lawyers for Lucas 5K fundraiser, promoting lung cancer screenings in rural areas.

* Encouraging Volunteerism in Law Firms: Elizabeth Stryker highlights the importance of volunteerism and encourages lawyers to give back to their communities.

Learn more about Elizabeth Stryker:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 13

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Chuck James, Founding Partner of Serious Injury Law Group. Prior to establishing the firm in 2013, Chuck gained experience as a criminal prosecutor where he honed his focus on personal injury law.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Legal Practice and Expansion: Chuck James talks about founding the Serious Injury Law Group in 2013, specializing in personal injury cases and recently expanding into Georgia.

* Community Service Commitment: Chuck emphasizes giving back to the community, influenced by his mentors, and mentions the firm's charitable activities like providing backpacks and scholarships.

* Support System and Balance: Chuck attributes his balance of career and community service to his supportive wife and his dedicated staff.

* Building a Culture of Service: Chuck reviews how the firm's service culture reflects his and his partner’s values, hiring individuals who care about clients and community.

* Representation and Professional Diversity: Chuck discusses the importance of diversity in the legal profession, emphasizing efforts to increase representation and the impact of diverse leaders on professional aspirations.

Learn more about Chuck James:

* Visit Serious Injury Law Group’s website: https://www.seriouslawyers.com

* Connect with Chuck James on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-james-4a085b50

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About More Than a Lawyer:

The More Than a Lawyer podcast highlights amazing acts of service that lawyers perform all over the country. Your host, Christy Crow, is Managing Attorney at Jinks Crow, PC., a woman-owned personal injury law firm located in Alabama, with offices in Union Springs and Montgomery. Jinks Crow is big enough to fight, small enough to care, representing clients in personal injury, wrongful death, accidents, and product liability cases.

Watch more episodes of More Than a Lawyer:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 12

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Jason Elam, a Louisiana native with extensive litigation experience defending clients in complex litigation matters in Louisiana and nationally. Jason oversees the New Orleans office at Gay Jones & Kuhn managing toxic tort, personal injury, and national and international commercial litigation dockets. Jason also specializes in premises liability, products liability, and environmental construction litigation. With over a decade of experience, Jason shares insights into his legal career.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Diverse Legal Career: Elam discusses his diverse legal journey starting from a major law firm handling commercial litigation to focusing on premises liability and environmental construction cases.

* Overcoming Personal Challenges: Elam faced significant personal challenges during law school; this experience inspired him to give back to the community through volunteer work and overcome personal challenges.

* Supporting Artists and Musicians: Elam has provided pro bono legal assistance to artists and musicians through organizations like the Ella Project. 

* Balancing Professional and Volunteer Work: Elam emphasizes the importance of balancing professional commitments with volunteer work.

Learn more about Jason Elam:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 11

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Matt Trollinger, a licensed attorney in Maryland and DC focused exclusively on fighting for the injured. As the founder of Trollinger Law LLC, Matt provides compassionate and effective legal representation for those hurt at work or due to negligence. 

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Professional Journey: Matt Trollinger shares his path from coaching part-time while working at a personal injury firm to establishing his own practice in Southern Maryland, focusing on personal injury and workers' compensation.

* Community Engagement: Matt emphasizes the importance of community involvement, drawing from his upbringing and personal values. He discusses the significance of giving back to the community where he lives and works, beyond just legal services.

* Fostering a Culture of Service: Within his firm, Matt prioritizes community service by encouraging staff to identify causes they are passionate about and supporting their involvement. 

* Being More Than A Lawyer: For Matt, being more than a lawyer means authenticity and active engagement in various aspects of life beyond the legal profession, including family, faith, and community service. 

Learn more about Matt Trollinger:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 10

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Jennifer Mason, a seasoned commercial litigator and partner at Dinsmore & Shohl LLP. Jennifer's extensive legal expertise encompasses insurance, corporate litigation, and appellate matters, with over 40 cases taken to trial and numerous appellate arguments. Beyond her legal practice, Jennifer is deeply involved in her community, spearheading initiatives to support local businesses and address pressing needs.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Legal Expertise: Jennifer Mason, a seasoned commercial litigator, boasts over 30 years of legal experience and a passion for trying cases.

* Community Engagement: Beyond her legal practice, Jennifer is deeply committed to her community in Greenbrier County, WV, advocating for local businesses and addressing community needs.

* COVID-19 Response: During the pandemic, Jennifer spearheaded initiatives to support struggling restaurants and feed vulnerable community members, showcasing her proactive approach to crisis management and community support.

* Health Advocacy: Jennifer's involvement with the Greenbrier Valley Health Alliance highlights her dedication to improving community health through resource coordination and grant initiatives.

* Educational Initiatives: Jennifer invests in the next generation by teaching debate skills to children in group homes, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and empowerment.

Learn more about Jennifer Mason:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 09

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Jami S. Oliver, Esq., CEO & Founder of Oliver Law Office, a law firm in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in auto injury, product liability, and employment litigation. Jami has been practicing for over two decades and leads a team dedicated to both legal excellence and community service.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Jami Oliver's journey from starting as a solo practitioner to building a diverse practice encompassing product liability, auto injuries, and employment litigation.

* The personal story behind Jami's passionate involvement in community service, particularly her efforts in pancreatic cancer advocacy following family experiences with the disease.

* Strategies Jami employs to foster a supportive and engaging workplace culture, enhancing team involvement in community services.

* Insights into balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments and volunteer work.

* The significance of lawyer involvement in nonprofit work and community services, emphasizing the ethical and moral obligations of the legal profession.

Learn more about Jami S. Oliver, Esq.:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 08

In this episode of "More Than A Lawyer," Christy Crow speaks with Randy Saunders, a Partner with Nelson Mullins in their West Virginia office and Vice President of Cornerstone Community Development Corp. Randy’s practice focuses on real estate, economic development, commercial, and banking law. He also served as the pro bono chair at his firm, emphasizing the integration of community service with legal practice.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * How Randy balances a demanding legal career with significant volunteer work.

 * The creation and impact of the Cornerstone Community Development Corporation in revitalizing Huntington.

 * The innovative approaches of Nelson Mullins to encourage and support pro bono work among their lawyers.

 * Randy’s insights on maintaining mental health and passion in the legal profession through community engagement.

 * The transformative power of legal aid initiatives like Wills for Heroes in supporting vulnerable populations in West Virginia.

Learn more about Randy Saunders:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 7

In this episode of "More Than A Lawyer," Christy Crow speaks with Jami Cooper, a litigation attorney practicing in Bridgeport, West Virginia. Jami, alongside her husband, operates Cooper Law Offices, a litigation firm established in 2007. With a deep commitment to their community, they provide personalized legal services. Jami shares her experience of balancing a demanding career in law with family life and community service.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * The unique challenges and rewards of running a family-owned legal firm.

 * Jami's journey in community service, starting from childhood influences to current volunteer work focused on internet safety for children.

 * The formation and impact of the West Virginia Women Attorneys organization and her role in national efforts to support women in law.

 * Practical advice for lawyers on integrating volunteer work into their professional lives and how it enhances their legal practice.

 * The personal significance of being "more than a lawyer" and how engaging in varied roles benefits personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

Learn more about Jami Cooper:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 6

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow interviews Andy Nichols, co-founder of Horman Nichols, a prominent law firm established in 2016. With over two decades of legal experience, Andy specializes in litigating general negligence, workers' compensation, premises liability, and contracts cases. Recognized for his exceptional legal ability and professionalism, Andy has been honored as a Rising Star in Maryland Super Lawyer magazine and holds an AV Preeminent rating with Martindale-Hubbell, showcasing his dedication to excellence in the legal field.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * Community Engagement and Balancing Legal Practice: Andy Nichols, a lawyer based in Frederick, Maryland, discussed his involvement in volunteer work alongside his legal practice. He emphasized the importance of having a supportive business partner and family, which allows him to dedicate time to community service without compromising his legal responsibilities.

* Focus on Mental Health Awareness: The interview coincided with Mental Health Awareness Month, prompting a discussion on Nichols' passion for mental health advocacy. He highlighted the work of the Mental Health Association (MHA) in Frederick County, Maryland, which offers various services such as crisis intervention, supervised visitation, counseling, and a call center.

* Impactful Fundraising Gala: Nichols shared his involvement in organizing MHA's annual fundraising gala, which raised over $300,000 in unrestricted funds. The gala, attended by 560 guests and supported by local businesses, plays a crucial role in financing MHA's programs and initiatives aimed at supporting mental health in the community.

Learn more about Andy Nichols:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 05

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Tiffany Cruz, a boutique law firm owner and practicing attorney based in Tallahassee, Florida. Tiffany's firm specializes in employment litigation, primarily representing employees who face issues such as wrongful termination or discrimination at work. She is deeply engaged in community service, particularly with local education initiatives.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Tiffany Cruz's journey from being a shareholder in another firm to starting her own boutique law firm focused on employment litigation and community engagement.

* The impactful work her firm does with the Classroom Connection program, partnering with local Title I schools to provide support ranging from educational resources to nutritional aid.

* How Tiffany and her team manage to balance the demands of a busy legal practice with active community service and personal life, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing well-being.

* The broader role lawyers can play in their communities beyond the courtroom, using their skills and resources to drive positive change.

* Practical advice for lawyers looking to engage more deeply in their local communities and find fulfillment in service beyond their professional duties.

Learn more about Tiffany Cruz:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 04

In this episode of "More Than a Lawyer," Christy Crow speaks with Morris Lilienthal, a Personal Injury Attorney at Martinson and Beeson, based in Huntsville, Alabama. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Morris is deeply committed to community service and volunteerism, actively contributing to causes that make a significant impact on the lives of others.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * Morris’ pivotal role in the creation of this podcast, “More Than a Lawyer,” emphasizing the importance of showcasing the philanthropic side of legal professionals

 * Morris's approach to balancing a demanding legal career with his passion for community service

 * Morris’ involvement with the March of Dimes in memory of his son, Will, and how this personal tragedy spurred a commitment to giving back

 * Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service and The 50 Yard Challenge — background on its founder, its mission and Morris's participation * How volunteer work enhances Morris's skills as a lawyer by improving his ability to connect with people from various backgrounds and walks of life

 * What it means to Morris to be "More Than a Lawyer" 

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 03

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Joshua Brumley, Managing Attorney at Brumley Law Firm, a personal injury law firm serving clients throughout Washington state.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * What led Joshua to get his firm involved with volunteer and community work

 * Pierce County Center for Dialogue and Resolution — How Joshua was introduced to the organization and came to be invited to its Board of Directors

 * Mediation — what it is and why it’s important in dispute resolution

 * How Joshua balances volunteer and community work with running his law firm

 * Methods Joshua uses to encourage lawyers in his firm and beyond to take part in volunteer and charity work

Learn more about Joshua Brumley:

More Than A Lawyer with Christy Crow, Episode 02

In this episode of More Than A Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with Chris Pracht, Trial Lawyer at Pracht Injury Lawyers.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

 * Chris’ background that led him to founding a community-focused and community-driven law firm

 * How Chris balances his community work with operating his own practice

 * Chris’ work with Anderson Interfaith Ministries (AIM) — how and why he became involved with the charity

 * Advice to those who want to get involved in their community

 * What it means to be more than a lawyer to Chris

Learn more about Chris Pracht:

More Than a Lawyer with Christy Crow, Ep 01

In this inaugural episode of More Than a Lawyer, Christy Crow speaks with James Amaro, Texas trial lawyer and owner of Amaro Law Firm based in Houston with multiple offices across the state. The firm was founded in 2005 and has grown to over 80 full-time team members and 11 lawyers. The Amaro law firm has gained a nationwide reputation from their work handling over 10,000 Deepwater Horizon oil spill cases, thousands of Hurricane Ike cases, and for record recoveries in wrongful death cases arising from work incidents and truck wrecks.

Tune in to the episode for these key takeaways:

 * Background of Amaro Law Firm

 * Why community service is important to James and how he balances that with running his firm 

 * James’ annual Easter Egg Hunt for the community, his partnership with the Sugarland Space Cowboys (the AAA team that feeds the Houston Astros), and how it’s grown from a couple hundred families to over 2,000 kids participating. 

 * Leading by example — How James has created and fostered a culture of community involvement within his firm

 * Advice for other law professionals who wants to get involved with nonprofit work and community

Learn more about James Amaro