Q: What makes you different than other lawyers/law firms?
A: First, we try cases. I’m surprised at how many lawyers litigate but seldom actually conduct a jury trial to verdict. Many cases will settle, but early on you need to be able to close your eyes and picture what the trial will look like. You need to be comfortable sizing up your jury pool, the orientation of the bench, the presentation of the parties and key witnesses, your ability to source just the right expert witness, and otherwise envision what your optimal trial looks like. Experience matters.
Second, I spent a dozen years defending civil cases before I began a significant plaintiff side practice. But, outside of medical malpractice and product liability cases, I still spend half my time defending cases. This gives our law firm a balanced perspective on accepting cases on either side, how to conduct discovery, how to approach a mediation, how to prepare for trial and how to run a trial. Balance matters.
Q: What brings you the most satisfaction in your work?
A: The most satisfaction comes from the validation of convincing a judge or jury that your client’s narrative is the right one. You sometimes have to argue around tough facts, juror biases or talented opposing counsel. But when you walk your factfinder through the evidence, walk them through the elements of the cause of action and you can see the light go on, you know you did your best to tell your client’s story.
Mike Charnoff practices a wide range of civil and commercial litigation. He has 25 years of experience in jury trials, bench trials and arbitrations throughout Virginia, Maryland and D.C. His trials and motions practice has been covered in The Washington Post, Virginia Lawyers Weekly and national publications.