looking ahead

I have one case that strikes fear into my heart.

It's a huge litigation, big money at stake, weeklong jury trial. I am overcome with dread whenever I think about it.

It's a case where, if common sense prevails, my client should come out with no, or very little, liability. It's a jury case, though, so you never know.

Plus, the other side consists of a guy suffering from a debilitating brain disease. He comes across as untrustworthy, but you can't really beat up on a guy when it's clear he can no longer function like he once did.

Only one thing is making me somewhat hopeful about this case: it's looking like the trial will be scheduled during my maternity leave.

Halleluia!!!

I really, really, really, all digits crossed, hope this occurs. Then my big boss will have to do it, and I'll get off scot-free.

I think I'll still have to try at least two cases before my leave, but both should be relatively straightforward. As I've tried more cases, the stress associated with litigation has decreased. It still keeps me awake at night sometimes, but not as much as it used to.

That's the benefit of losing. It helps you realize that life (and work) marches on.

Stress is necessary to keep you sharp, but it shouldn't be paralyzing. For me, that's been a tough lesson to learn.