Michael P. Maslanka

July 27, 2022 | Texas Lawyer

What is the single hardest concept to teach a law student, a new lawyer, or even a seasoned veteran? Teaching the mindset brave enough to question authority and adept enough to do so effectively. To that end, here are five suggestions.

By Michael P. Maslanka

9 minute read

May 31, 2022 | Texas Lawyer

The consequences for an employee trying to perform his job can arguably be debilitating; thus, it must be left to a jury, not a judge, to decide whether the terms and conditions of his employment are so altered as to create a hostile work environment based on race.

By Michael P. Maslanka

8 minute read

March 25, 2022 | Texas Lawyer

While zealous advocacy by lawyers on behalf of is not only permitted but required, a lawyer crosses the line into an ethical violation by using unlawful means (extortion) to achieve a lawful end.

By Michael P. Maslanka

9 minute read

January 28, 2022 | Texas Lawyer

President Kennedy knew what all effective trial lawyers know: be direct, be candid, ask for what you want. And do so in vivid specifics, not gauzy generalities.

By Michael P. Maslanka

7 minute read

November 21, 2021 | Texas Lawyer

I think about the initial travails of Judy Benjamin when teaching Professional Responsibility (PR) and in speaking with relatively new lawyers (and even more senior ones). "Wait, you're telling me that my oath stops me from conduct that I consider perfectly reasonable and my business and no one else's!?!"

By Michael P. Maslanka

8 minute read

October 15, 2021 | Texas Lawyer

To be effective lawyers, advocates and counselors, we must face the fear of error, surmount it, and come through the other side.

By Michael P. Maslanka

8 minute read

September 20, 2021 | Texas Lawyer

The current concept of professionalism exalts a functioning legal system as a good unto itself.

By Michael P. Maslanka

7 minute read

August 16, 2021 | Texas Lawyer

Has the law concerning sexual harassment kept abreast of the societal change triggered by the #MeToo movement, or has it remained stuck in a pre-#MeToo time warp?

By Michael P. Maslanka

9 minute read

July 18, 2021 | Texas Lawyer

Law practice is the loneliest profession; having the right mindset can head off lots of trouble, says Michael P. Maslanka, an assistant professor of law at the University of North Texas at Dallas College of Law.

By Michael P. Maslanka

6 minute read

February 17, 2021 | Texas Lawyer

The House impeachment managers presented compelling arguments against President Donald Trump in the recently concluded impeachment trial; Michael P. Maslanka explains how they did it.

By Michael P. Maslanka

6 minute read