The image of the trial lawyer as lone gunslinger is becoming increasingly outmoded, says attorney Sarah R. Wolff of Chicago’s Sachnoff & Weaver Ltd. “The old view was that one lawyer is totally in control. But, as trials get longer and issues more complex, it is more effective to divide up representation.”
Splitting up duties allows lawyers to focus on certain aspects of a lawsuit, she says. “One attorney can focus on the experts or one can handle all the arguments with the judge.” The division is based on playing to each lawyer’s strengths, but it has to occur long before trial.
