Chicago Attorney Puts His Clients At Ease Through Communication
Michael R. Ek, LTD is an attorney and has been practicing law since 1987. For the first nine years, Ek worked for law firms and in 1996, he started his own practice. Ek graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1983 with a degree in criminal justice and received his law degree from the John Marshall Law School in 1987.
What are the responsibilities of your current role?
"My principal responsibility is to each individual client. I must understand a client's goal, layout their options, and provide a plan to meet that goal. I am also responsible to manage my law practice so that I am able to represent all my clients in a timely fashion and do so economically."
What is your favorite part of your daily duties?
"Most people, regardless of their education or intelligence, can be intimidated, frustrated or just feel lost when it comes to the law. The best part of my job is when I can put the client at ease so they can see the light at the end of the tunnel."
Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?
"Law school gave me the tools to handle legal matters, which is necessary. But, skills for time and case management, marketing, and communication with clients and other professionals are something usually learned only by working in a law office."
Do you have any advice for people who desire to pursue a similar career?
"I would suggest getting involved in the legal systems by working in a law office. Watch how an attorney manages their time and each file. Spend time in a busy courtroom and see how the attorney interact with each other and with the judge and courtroom staff. Don't be afraid to ask questions, it's the best way to gain the practical skills necessary to be an effective attorney."
Michelle Guilbeau is a writer, reviewer, teacher and business owner living in Chicago, Illinois. She also has experience in school administration, literacy coaching and is proud founder of CraftKitsForKids.com and MichelleGuilbeau.com Michelle enjoys sharing her knowledge of Chicago, food, travel, education and parenting issues with her readers. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
