Using Settlement Counsel
Plano Dispute Resolution Attorneys
Legal disputes are part of everyday life in a society that places so much emphasis on individual rights. A business relationship falls through because of breach of contract. A tenant fails to pay rent. A family member suspects foul play when he was suspiciously left out of a will. While some of these issues require going to court, many can be resolved long before litigation is necessary through mediation and other alternative dispute resolution methods.
At Meyer & Colegrove, we believe that a lawyer should be willing and prepared to go to trial if necessary. That being said, we understand that preparing for trial and preparing for negotiations are two different processes. An attorney needs to be aggressive and ready to challenge the opposition's arguments in favor of the client's interests when going to court. In settlement negotiations, that same attorney must be willing to concede some things in order to gain others. The ultimate goal is not to put the other side down while raising the client up, but rather to find a mutually beneficial solution to the legal dispute.
That is why using settlement counsel is so beneficial.
Settlement counsel involves using a separate attorney or legal team to handle the settlement process of a dispute. The litigation can be put on hold (single-track approach), or the litigation attorney can prepare for trial at the same time the settlement team prepares for negotiations (dual-track approach).
There are benefits and shortfalls of each track. For example, the single-track approach allows all efforts to be put into settlement. The client does not need to switch gears between fighting for his or her interests and negotiating a solution. The dual-track approach allows the settlement counsel to work on resolving less-disputed issues so the litigation counsel can focus all efforts on resolving the primary legal concern. Additionally, the litigation and settlement counsel can share information that will benefit both of their situations. It is important to discuss the right option for you with your attorney.
Contact Meyer & Colegrove
At Meyer & Colegrove, we work with other attorneys to provide settlement counsel for their clients. Attorney Gregory Meyer leads this part of our practice. Mr. Meyer has more than 20 years of legal experience and a long history of success handling civil litigation cases in state and federal courts. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you resolve your legal dispute.
To speak with a business law attorney, contact us at (972) 334-0091 for an initial consultation. We serve clients in Plano, Frisco and throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth area.