In the latest episode of The Attorney Post, Bree Sullivan-Howell delves into her journey through the legal landscape, sharing experiences that have shaped her career. From her early passion for law to navigating the challenges brought by the pandemic, Bree's insights offer a valuable look into the evolving nature of legal practice.
Professional Background and Personal Life
Bree Sullivan-Howell’s interest in law started in childhood. Though she initially pursued a background in public relations (PR) and journalism as a fallback, she now leverages her PR skills in her legal practice for effective marketing. This diverse background highlights Bree’s adaptability and commitment to her legal career.
Career Trajectory and Influences
Bree discusses her lifelong passion for law and how her PR and journalism experience enrich her current practice. Justin West, the host, shares his own background in philosophy and history, explaining how he transitioned into marketing and PR due to personal circumstances. This discussion emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences in shaping a successful career.
Impact of Pandemic on Legal Practice
The pandemic significantly impacted communication methods in the legal field. Bree and Justin discuss how the adoption of Zoom led to more efficient consultations and hearings. This shift has transformed traditional legal practices, demonstrating the adaptability of the legal profession.
'Crush Your Divorce'
Bree shares insights from her book, Crush Your Divorce, which targets Christian women navigating the challenges of divorce. The book provides hope, practical tips, and guidance, incorporating scripture and advice on behavior during divorce proceedings and communication with lawyers. Bree’s book aims to support women through one of the most challenging times in their lives.
Learning from Failures in Legal Practice
Early in her career, Bree faced a significant failure due to the incorrect presentation of evidence in court. This experience underscored the importance of having evidence authenticated and avoiding objections. Bree reflects on the critical role of evidence in legal cases and the importance of learning to present it effectively, especially without formal training.
Success in Overturning Unjust Custody Ruling
Bree recounts a case where she helped a client regain custody of her children by disproving false allegations made by the husband. This success story highlights the importance of robust evidence and legal representation in achieving just outcomes. Bree emphasizes the emotional impact of such cases, particularly when they involve separation from children during holidays like Christmas.
Impact of Pandemic on Domestic Violence
The pandemic lockdowns led to a rise in domestic violence and restricted access to legal help. Bree highlights the increased challenges faced during this period and the critical need for accessible legal support to protect vulnerable individuals.
Role of Mediation in Legal Practice
Mediation plays a crucial role in Bree’s legal practice. She explains that approximately 85-90% of her cases are settled through mediation before trial. Bree’s approach involves asking clients for their ideal settlement terms, setting clear goals, and working towards reaching agreements. Interestingly, she notes that some couples reconcile during the legal process, highlighting the unpredictable nature of relationships.
Absurd Situations in Legal Cases
Bree shares amusing anecdotes about clients refusing to settle cases over trivial items like shuffleboard tables and bobblehead dolls. These stories illustrate the subjective value individuals place on certain possessions and the sometimes bizarre nature of legal disputes.
Impact of Social Media and Technology on Legal Practice
The rise of social media and technology has increased the volume of evidence in legal cases, leading to the evolution of e-discovery. Bree discusses the impact of GPS tracking on cases and the challenges of managing large volumes of digital evidence. Attorney-client privilege and handling client confessions were also addressed, emphasizing confidentiality unless imminent harm is involved.
Privacy Concerns and Technology’s Impact on Behavior
Bree and Justin express concerns about the loss of privacy due to smartphones and the excessive use of technology. They discuss the addictive nature of smartphones and their negative impact on human behavior, drawing a thought-provoking comparison between time spent on smartphones and reading the Bible.
Faith and Divorce in Family Law
Handling divorce within different Christian denominations presents unique challenges. Bree emphasizes the lack of resources for addressing difficult marital situations and expresses her views on divorce, stating it can be a blessing for those mistreated or betrayed in relationships. She discusses the biblical perspective on divorce and the importance of providing support and hope to those going through difficult times.
Reflections and Advice
Bree reflects on the importance of learning from past experiences and the need for continuous professional growth. She shares advice for her younger self and discusses potential changes to laws that could improve the legal system. Bree’s openness and honesty about her experiences provide valuable insights for both legal professionals and individuals navigating the complexities of family law.
Conclusion
Bree Sullivan-Howell’s appearance on The Attorney Post offers a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of legal practice. From adapting to pandemic-induced changes to navigating the intricacies of family law and mediation, Bree’s insights are invaluable. Her dedication to justice, empathy for clients, and commitment to professional growth make her a standout figure in the legal community.
The Sullivan Firm, LLC
429 E. Jackson St.
Thomasville, GA 31792
(229) 226-1940
Online at: The Sullivan Firm, LLC
