For those in the legal profession in Rhode Island, the May/June edition of the Rhode Island Bar Journal is in circulation.  Page 11 features legendary Rhode Island attorney, Allan Shine.  Let us know what you think of the article, or suggest who should be the next “legend” by leaving a comment.

Allan M. Shine

Next up, Attorney Allan M. Shine.  Mr. Shine of Winograd Shine Land & Finkle, P.C.  is an esteemed and well-known attorney that routinely handles bankruptcy matters.  The May/June edition of The Rhode Island Bar Journal will feature our interview with Mr. Shine.

If you would like to nominate a Legend, contact the authors directly, at mplain@taylorduane.com or emerritt@taylorduane.com, or leave a Comment.

Mr. Cicilline is undeniably humble, and only after asking the question numerous times, in various ways, were we able to illicit the trait that Mr. Cicilline attributes to his professional accomplishments.  Mr. Cicilline said:

You know something?  I think the only thing that I would say that consistently has been a trait of mine has been balls.

We are pleased and honored that the American Bar Journal has listed Lunch with Legends in their Blawg Directory! Check out… Continue reading →

For those in the legal profession in Rhode Island, the March/April edition of the Rhode Island Bar Journal is waiting for you in your mailbox.  It is a great edition.  Be sure to check out Page 23 featuring legendary Rhode Island attorney, Jack Cicilline.  Let us know what you think of the article, or suggest who should be the next “legend” by leaving a Comment.

Mr. Cicilline, pictured right, at defense counsel's table. Photo from www.marcseifer.com.

Next up on the roster of legends is Attorney Jack Cicilline.  Although famously (or perhaps infamously) known in Rhode Island as a “mob lawyer,” Jack Cicilline’s accomplishments in the criminal defense arena in Rhode Island, and even nationwide, are commendable and far more substantive than a “mob lawyer” reputation may suggest.  From introducing the ground breaking forensic science into Rhode Island courtrooms, to prevailing in a Georgia death case, Mr. Cicilline is a true champion of civil liberties, and a trendsetter for Rhode Island criminal attorneys.  You can read more about Mr. Cicilline’s accomplishments, and his thoughts about practicing law in Rhode Island, in the upcoming March/April 2012 Edition of the Rhode Island Bar Journal.  Be on the lookout for the latest bar journal, and be sure to let us know what you think of the article (either anonymously or as yourself) by leaving a comment here.

After interviewing legal legends including Joe Kelly, Ray LaFazia, John McBurney, Jack Cicilline and Allan Shine, a theme emerged.  The collegiality that existed among the bar members of yesteryear, is no more.  For whatever reason (maybe there are “too many lawyers” now, perhaps our clients are more demanding, or possibly lawyers just are not the same as they used to be), things are different.  Mr. McBurney explained to us:

 …Lately, it’s become personal, vindictive, one lawyer against another…we didn’t have that in the old days.  Everybody got along, even though you were on opposite sides.

In the “old days” not only did lawyers get along, but they actually regularly gathered together at a legendary Chinese restaurant and bar, “The Ming Garden” Continue reading →

For those in the legal profession in Rhode Island, the January/February 2012 edition of the Rhode Island Bar Journal is waiting for you in your mailbox.  Check out Page 27 featuring legendary Rhode Island attorney, and consummate serviceman, John F. McBurney.   Let us know what you think of the article, or suggest who should be the next “legend” by leaving a Comment.  Happy Holidays, Legends readers!

Following the recent publication of the November/December 2011 Bar Journal featuring legendary mentor, Ray LaFazia, we have had a great deal of feedback from senior and junior members of the bar.  It is clear that, despite his retirement, Mr. LaFazia’s impact on the legal community remains strong.  For instance, Kevin Rolando, an associate at Gunning & LaFazia, a firm started by Mr. LaFazia and Bill Gunning about fifty years ago, shared with us his feelings about Mr. LaFazia’s legacy:

“Mr. LaFazia’s extraordinary career provides an example that all of us that have sought to follow in his footsteps continue to benefit from.”

Mr. Rolando’s sentiments are certainly echoed throughout the legal community here in Rhode Island and provide further insight into Mr. LaFazia’s legendary status.  During an attorney’s career he or she is influenced in countless ways by mentors.  Mr. LaFazia’s legacy inspires all of us not only to learn, but to lead by example in the hopes that we will one day mentor others with the same zeal and positive influence.

Click on “Leave a Comment“ to share your thoughts (either anonymously or by name) about mentorship or Mr. LaFazia.

As indicated in our Inaugural Post, we set out on this endeavor to celebrate the legal profession by highlighting the careers of trailblazers, trendsetters, and treasures of the Bar.  The professional biographies of senior members of the Bar has both academic and entertainment value.  However, providing our colleagues with a history lesson or a means to pass time does not fully satisfy our intent.  Rather, we intend for these interviewees, or “Legends,” to indirectly teach a course in character education.  This course’s syllabus is rather simple… Continue reading →