Recently, I came across a quote that really made me think long and hard about the nature of my practice. South African author and philosopher Mokokoma Mokhonoana said, “Intellectually curious men become generalists. Intellectually lazy men settle for being specialists.” This statement, in turn, reminded me of Bob Dylan’s lyrics, “He not busy being born is busy dying.”

Every day, I teach my children to push themselves—to try something new—since that is the only and best way they can grow and reach their true potential. Yet, professionally, I sometimes ignore my own advice and stay in my own lane. I am a personal injury attorney, a litigator. I don’t dabble in other areas of law. I do what I know. That said, each week, I am approached by a client in my personal injury practice with “another legal issue.” This query may be a work-related wage dispute, a homeowner’s insurance claim or a myriad of other matters. Often, it would be quickest to handle this new issue for my client. I already have the relationship with the client. They trust me. I am perfectly capable of doing the research, writing a few letters, and even drafting a few pleadings. But, frequently, what is best for my client, and for me, is deferring to the true specialist. It is not a question of intelligence or ability, but rather experience. This area of expertise is what my colleague does day-in, day-out, and my client requires that level of specialization. So, I make the proper referral and return to focusing my practice on what I know: personal injury litigation.

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