As an attorney, ethical standards are very important to me. It is my duty to always put my client’s interest above my own. This is a duty I take very seriously. It is a duty I also owe to potential clients – people who call me for an initial consultation before a formal attorney-client relationship is formed. This is why I will always advise you of the course of action that in my opinion will be the most advantageous to you– regardless of whether that means more or less business for me.

For example, you may call me to inquire about filing a trademark application. If I discover facts that indicate you may be better served by not filing the proposed application, I will advise you accordingly. This may cost me your business – but I will have done my duty to you.

As another example, you may call me because you have received an office action refusing registration of your trademark on likelihood of confusion grounds. I will evaluate the refusal, and if in my estimation I will not be able to win the argument on your behalf, I will not take the case. This is because my duty to you includes not taking your money unless I believe there is a chance that I can achieve a positive outcome for you. This is not meant to indicate that I win every likelihood of confusion case I accept, because I don’t. I have won many, but certainly not all. You can rest assured that if I accept your matter I will advocate zealously on your behalf. You should also know that if I deem your particular case to be a loser, I will advise you accordingly.

As a lawyer, I understand that my livelihood depends on my good reputation. Accordingly, I place your interests above my own, and I will not take you on as a client unless, in my professional opinion, I will be able to assist you.