Best Orlando Med Mal Firms Forum

[johndooley]

Few observations (which I made in another thread under accidental anon):

TLS has an outdated view of florida vs NYC. Florida is no longer cheap because a bunch of CA/NY peeps moved down there. So yes, 3500 for an apartment in Orlando seems ridiculous, but keep in mind that the equivalent apartment in NYC is going to be smaller, older, and with inferior amenities. That's not to say one or the other is better, just that there are tradeoffs. Central Florida isn't for everyone but neither is NYC. Florida has other benefits (weather, taxes etc, space) that still hold true even though cost of living may no longer be one.

Also, i have no idea how big law associates get off on needling a solo attorney who makes enough from his own practice and actually does trials. This is way more impressive then being a capital markets lawyer preparing disclosure for F500 companies. Sounds like some of you are drinking the Kool aid and think you're "prestigious" (unless you're an equity partner, miss me with that).

Last, very pathetic to brag about living in NYC unless you own property or are part of the elite. Protip: white collar workers are not part of the NYC elite.

Yes, Florida is not nearly as cheap as pre-covid, let alone pre-08. As you said, there are benefits and drawbacks to both. Orlando did boom the last three years, but not nearly as much as South Florida, which has less and less of a cost of living advantage over the northeast.

Thank you for bringing up this point about needling. The impact of any solo who shows up to trial is higher than what almost any junior to midlevel big law associate does, and probably senior associate. There are serious consequences for individual clients if a trial attorney phones it in or does not bother to spend that extra hour reviewing a motion (and we do not have billables in medmal, so that incentive to stay up all night is very different). If a solo or small firm partner can also out earn those associates then more power to them. I'd rather be Joe Jamail when living than a big law equity partner any day.

Yes on not being part of the NYC elite. That is a world most people in Manhattan sneak glances of but are never part of. If you are not (1) worth eight figures, (2) went to private school in Manhattan or New England (the people who belong to golf clubs that host the Open), (3) are in high finance (no commercial banking or no-name PE here) and/or (4) engaged in outsize philanthropy and the arts, you are almost certainly not a Manhattan elite. You are "the Help" or well-compensated corporate janitors for these people. I had a job before law school in fine hospitality and you overhear enough to realize that law will not bring you entrée to those circles. You are either born or marry in or become a real big swinger.

Aren’t PPP for top firms approaching 8 figures?

Nyc elite commentary from the guy living in Orlando. Come on man. We get it. You hate biglaw people looking down at MedMal attorneys. Great! You won! Your rich! You live in Orlando! You are married!

Money is usually necessary but not sufficient. How representative is eight figures for partners at top firms in terms of the hundred or so big firms in NY plus in house? Most equity partners in the V100 probably make about what I do with way more pressure and way more time committed to their practice. It’s also funny you went straight to income. That is necessary but not sufficient to be a NY elite.

[johndooley]

John D is definitely an obnoxious dude with a chip on his shoulder, but his posts have provided a different point of view and information we usually wouldn’t get here, so I think he’s a net add. Especially if we can keep him separate from other threads that have nothing to do with Orlando Med Mal.

I actually vote that we start a John Dooley Thread for Medmal Attorneys and Attorneys That Wanna Learn to Do Other Stuff Good Too.

I love how he throws out links. Who has that much time for the links!!!

Someone who doesn’t have billables and doesn’t have clients who say “turn these documents over by 9am.” Never understood why people brag about how busy they are.

The point was more what millionaire is posting on TLS. But okay billables yay.

Yea those must suck. Being watched by partners and your client and fighting over them like a cashier

[johndooley]

If this isn't an anon post by that medmal guy with the inflated ego from the house buying thread, I will be disappointed.

OP here. Sorry to disappoint. That’s a great idea, what are housing costs like for James mal associates? I guess that goes hand in hand with pay. Are any houses “on the water”???

Be disappointed. Housing costs? Depends on whether you want to be downtown or in the suburbs. A medmal associate can afford a 2BR with views, a pool, and a gym downtown. In the suburbs, there are new construction starter homes at 300-500k. If you want to be in Windermere or Winter Park where most successful attorneys in the area live then you generally need to be a partner or a solo. To get anything decent it will be about 1.5 million. There are less desirable parts of both towns but you might as well stay downtown at that point.

On the water? Many, my friend. And obtainable on an associate’s salary if you are willing to make a 45 minute commute.

OP here. Can you list some firms please and actual salary numbers? Also please let me know types of perks offered (relocation budget, tech budget, meals on the firm etc).

How about you give me some big firms that are willing to hire an experienced medmal attorney? Given my income (including passive income) is seven figures, I’m looking for a firm that can match that.

Got it so no answer on the entire point of this thread. Just more links and hype about your seven figure income. Do we need to PM you for you to drop the machismo act? Even when people ask you questions your confrontational.

Your question wasn’t in good faith. I’ve answered a ton of questions with detail on what it’s like to be a medmal attorney and how to break into it. I’m also not Spanish, no machismo here

[Anonymous User]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

[johndooley]

How about you give me some big firms that are willing to hire an experienced medmal attorney? Given my income (including passive income) is seven figures, I’m looking for a firm that can match that.

Probably none. You'd bring a ton of conflicts, and your business model wouldn't really fit well at biglaw. Why would you even want biglaw? The reason a high earning solo would want biglaw would be to leverage their name through network connections--e.g., Tim down the hall knows the Walmart CEO and you're a fucking big name expert at some shit Walmart needs. No biglaw firm would provide any benefit to a medmal practice, and you wouldn't provide them with any benefit (unless you're willing to make less money to help the firm's profits, and why the fuck would you do that?).

Good question. Why the fuck would anyone enter big law except to get out of student debt?

[Anonymous User]

Good question. Why the fuck would anyone enter big law except to get out of student debt?

Your question wasn’t in good faith. I’ve answered a ton of questions with detail on what it’s like to be a medmal attorney and how to break into it. I’m also not Spanish, no machismo here

Johnny boy making up excuses money can't fix and breaking down into profanities. As I said, we broke him - we're witnessing a man on the edge.

[johndooley]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

[johndooley]

Good question. Why the fuck would anyone enter big law except to get out of student debt?

Your question wasn’t in good faith. I’ve answered a ton of questions with detail on what it’s like to be a medmal attorney and how to break into it. I’m also not Spanish, no machismo here

Johnny boy making up excuses money can't fix and breaking down into profanities. As I said, we broke him - we're witnessing a man on the edge.

I’m in a car with my partner, an in law, and a former client with skoal straight about to get on a boat in two hours. I’m not broken.

[Anonymous User]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

How does a higher rate of education get measured? What difference does that make? Didn’t Mark Zuckerberg drop out of college? You sound awfully like the NYC elite you hate so much.

[Anonymous User]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

How does a higher rate of education get measured? What difference does that make? Didn’t Mark Zuckerberg drop out of college? You sound awfully like the NYC elite you hate so much.

[johndooley]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

How does a higher rate of education get measured? What difference does that make? Didn’t Mark Zuckerberg drop out of college? You sound awfully like the NYC elite you hate so much.

I don’t live in Tampa and wouldn’t live there. Oh idk, maybe the number of PhDs MDs JDs and BA holders. Does Detroit have as high a rate of education as lake forest IL?

[Anonymous User]

If this isn't an anon post by that medmal guy with the inflated ego from the house buying thread, I will be disappointed.

OP here. Sorry to disappoint. That’s a great idea, what are housing costs like for James mal associates? I guess that goes hand in hand with pay. Are any houses “on the water”???

Be disappointed. Housing costs? Depends on whether you want to be downtown or in the suburbs. A medmal associate can afford a 2BR with views, a pool, and a gym downtown. In the suburbs, there are new construction starter homes at 300-500k. If you want to be in Windermere or Winter Park where most successful attorneys in the area live then you generally need to be a partner or a solo. To get anything decent it will be about 1.5 million. There are less desirable parts of both towns but you might as well stay downtown at that point.

On the water? Many, my friend. And obtainable on an associate’s salary if you are willing to make a 45 minute commute.

OP here. Can you list some firms please and actual salary numbers? Also please let me know types of perks offered (relocation budget, tech budget, meals on the firm etc).

How about you give me some big firms that are willing to hire an experienced medmal attorney? Given my income (including passive income) is seven figures, I’m looking for a firm that can match that.

Got it so no answer on the entire point of this thread. Just more links and hype about your seven figure income. Do we need to PM you for you to drop the machismo act? Even when people ask you questions your confrontational.

Your question wasn’t in good faith. I’ve answered a ton of questions with detail on what it’s like to be a medmal attorney and how to break into it. I’m also not Spanish, no machismo here

The thread was in bad faith yet you’ve ranted rambled and bragged about your income for four pages while throwing out loads of links highlighting your insecurities. Sorry you need to go on a website to tell people how rich you are because you didn’t get a biglaw job out of your law school. Glad you turned it around!!!

[johndooley]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

How does a higher rate of education get measured? What difference does that make? Didn’t Mark Zuckerberg drop out of college? You sound awfully like the NYC elite you hate so much.

Who said I hate or even resent them? I’m not a striver and don’t aspire to be around them or part of their world. I think it is sad you all watch Seinfeld and Friends and how I met your mother and think living in nyc is a badge of honor instead of a mere lifestyle decision and place to sleep

[Anonymous User]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

How does a higher rate of education get measured? What difference does that make? Didn’t Mark Zuckerberg drop out of college? You sound awfully like the NYC elite you hate so much.

I don’t live in Tampa and wouldn’t live there. Oh idk, maybe the number of PhDs MDs JDs and BA holders. Does Detroit have as high a rate of education as lake forest IL?

Maybe you should move to NYC…. Pry a higher rate than Orlando in the neighborhoods you could afford as a janitor for the NYC elite. You sound awfully elitist over there on your educational high horse.

[johndooley]

OP here. Sorry to disappoint. That’s a great idea, what are housing costs like for James mal associates? I guess that goes hand in hand with pay. Are any houses “on the water”???

Be disappointed. Housing costs? Depends on whether you want to be downtown or in the suburbs. A medmal associate can afford a 2BR with views, a pool, and a gym downtown. In the suburbs, there are new construction starter homes at 300-500k. If you want to be in Windermere or Winter Park where most successful attorneys in the area live then you generally need to be a partner or a solo. To get anything decent it will be about 1.5 million. There are less desirable parts of both towns but you might as well stay downtown at that point.

On the water? Many, my friend. And obtainable on an associate’s salary if you are willing to make a 45 minute commute.

OP here. Can you list some firms please and actual salary numbers? Also please let me know types of perks offered (relocation budget, tech budget, meals on the firm etc).

How about you give me some big firms that are willing to hire an experienced medmal attorney? Given my income (including passive income) is seven figures, I’m looking for a firm that can match that.

Got it so no answer on the entire point of this thread. Just more links and hype about your seven figure income. Do we need to PM you for you to drop the machismo act? Even when people ask you questions your confrontational.

Your question wasn’t in good faith. I’ve answered a ton of questions with detail on what it’s like to be a medmal attorney and how to break into it. I’m also not Spanish, no machismo here

The thread was in bad faith yet you’ve ranted rambled and bragged about your income for four pages while throwing out loads of links highlighting your insecurities. Sorry you need to go on a website to tell people how rich you are because you didn’t get a biglaw job out of your law school. Glad you turned it around!!!

Yea I went to an infilaw to get big law. And yes tarpon fishing and 3k a month Orlando apts are bragging in the form of links.

[johndooley]

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

How does a higher rate of education get measured? What difference does that make? Didn’t Mark Zuckerberg drop out of college? You sound awfully like the NYC elite you hate so much.

I don’t live in Tampa and wouldn’t live there. Oh idk, maybe the number of PhDs MDs JDs and BA holders. Does Detroit have as high a rate of education as lake forest IL?

Maybe you should move to NYC…. Pry a higher rate than Orlando in the neighborhoods you could afford as a janitor for the NYC elite. You sound awfully elitist over there on your educational high horse.

I’m not elitist. I'm only noting that so far as “elites” go probably none of you are elites. Unless a top firm equity partner (your words not mine) is posting here which I doubt, and even then they may not be an elite. Most of you are junior associates in student debt, living in dingy apartments, and on track to take a big paycut going in-house (the threads on that are amusing here), and yet I am the one who is attacked for his life decisions. Come back when your assets outstrip your liabilities.

[Anonymous User]

9. No one should go into medmal for the salary. Unless you are seeking to strike out on your own ASAP, it is not worth the time and investment of being a medmal associate. You should be seeking between 50-80k in Florida. Less than 50k and you are working for a boss who will not respect you, more than 80k is unrealistic.

Interested by this last point. You say that nobody should go into it for the salary but that has seemed to be your main selling point. Or do you mean that people should in fact strike out on their own ASAP?

[12YrsAnAssociate]

Define top tier school. You almost certainly went to a top 50 school, maybe they speak negatively of it behind your back.

1. Approximately 5 years after working for a 10-20 person medmal firm. I left with another associate.

2. Advertising mostly. Most people will never sue for medical malpractice and do not know more than a handful of other people who have. There is only so much word of mouth can do as opposed to say teenager DUIs and drafting wills. You would be surprised how many people ultimately do not pursue litigation despite clear cut cases. These "accidents" (or whatever you want to call them) happen to people on the lower end of the socioeconomic ladder to a disproportionate degree.

3. Yes, remarkably well. Most people do not socialize or know attorneys in their private lives. Especially medmal clients. If you provide a face, a phone number, and a pithy sentence they will call you or others who do it.

4. I do not exactly know how to answer such a broad question. Because of the nature of being paid on contingency it is best to avoid lemons unless you calculate some outsize award. That combination is extremely unlikely.

5. Orlando is by most American standards a mid-size to large city so the bar is big enough that you are not known by most but small enough that you are one degree away if active, sometimes two. There are a handful of larger firms that carry weight. Because most are not associated with them, it is not a problem to be independent of them. I have not been disrespected in the manner you describe, it is not like medmal attorneys come from Harvard and expect others to be of that background. Outside the bar, yes, some people treat plaintiff's attorneys like lepers. I have not had many issues though. I probably cannot join a top of the line golf or tennis club even if I had the right connections because of my line of work. I would also struggle to befriend a doctor, if that matters.

6. I have not gone against what you would consider big law. I am sure NYC/DC/Boston/SF/LA hospitals and medical groups have more resourceful and large firms at hand. I do not know if your Vault level firms to that kind of defense though.

7. I went to a law school that does not provide many options and was fortunate to work for the firm I did. It was medmal or the DUIs and wills I mentioned. Medmal is very interesting because of the stories and characters involved, it is emotionally gripping (people get hurt by doctors in ways that would make your blood curdle, if there is anything I can try to dispel it is that lawyers are mercilessly going after doctors, so many doctors are absolutely irresponsible, reckless, and sometimes malicious), there is a STEM element with working with expert witnesses, and it is true trial work if you do not agree to a settlement. I feel challenged in a way small time crim law or wills would not.

8. Florida is regarded as a decent state for personal injury/general tort attorneys. They are trying to crack down, it probably will not go far. There are better states to operate in, there are worse, at least according to the rankings put out by various legal groups.

9. No one should go into medmal for the salary. Unless you are seeking to strike out on your own ASAP, it is not worth the time and investment of being a medmal associate. You should be seeking between 50-80k in Florida. Less than 50k and you are working for a boss who will not respect you, more than 80k is unrealistic.

I went to a school ranked in like the 70s. I went part time because I had a full time job and got some scholarship money, though I probably wouldn't have got into a much better full time program. I landed a biglaw summer job and then a clerkship so I decided I'd do law over my old career. I don't think people here would speak negatively of me. Some of the rejections I've gotten from some biglaw firms stung a little, but I'm fine with where I'm at. I do appreciate you answering questions. Some of your answers are a little combative. I just wanted to hear about your career dude. Maybe one day I'll leave biglaw and strike out on my own. I don't make 7 figures, but top of the biglaw associate scale, so like 550k, which is still high for a guy that grew up in a blue collar family, and would make leaving biglaw tough.

[Anonymous User]

Regardless of what he may have posted in other threads, Dooley clearly wins this one. Miserable biglaw associates are the ones who need to get a life for their attempt to drag and bully someone who has clearly built a more than fine life for himself. The only insecurities I perceive here are among the anons who think ganging up on someone for living in central Florida and not working as a corporate cog is funny.

- 2L lurker

[johndooley]

Define top tier school. You almost certainly went to a top 50 school, maybe they speak negatively of it behind your back.

1. Approximately 5 years after working for a 10-20 person medmal firm. I left with another associate.

2. Advertising mostly. Most people will never sue for medical malpractice and do not know more than a handful of other people who have. There is only so much word of mouth can do as opposed to say teenager DUIs and drafting wills. You would be surprised how many people ultimately do not pursue litigation despite clear cut cases. These "accidents" (or whatever you want to call them) happen to people on the lower end of the socioeconomic ladder to a disproportionate degree.

3. Yes, remarkably well. Most people do not socialize or know attorneys in their private lives. Especially medmal clients. If you provide a face, a phone number, and a pithy sentence they will call you or others who do it.

4. I do not exactly know how to answer such a broad question. Because of the nature of being paid on contingency it is best to avoid lemons unless you calculate some outsize award. That combination is extremely unlikely.

5. Orlando is by most American standards a mid-size to large city so the bar is big enough that you are not known by most but small enough that you are one degree away if active, sometimes two. There are a handful of larger firms that carry weight. Because most are not associated with them, it is not a problem to be independent of them. I have not been disrespected in the manner you describe, it is not like medmal attorneys come from Harvard and expect others to be of that background. Outside the bar, yes, some people treat plaintiff's attorneys like lepers. I have not had many issues though. I probably cannot join a top of the line golf or tennis club even if I had the right connections because of my line of work. I would also struggle to befriend a doctor, if that matters.

6. I have not gone against what you would consider big law. I am sure NYC/DC/Boston/SF/LA hospitals and medical groups have more resourceful and large firms at hand. I do not know if your Vault level firms to that kind of defense though.

7. I went to a law school that does not provide many options and was fortunate to work for the firm I did. It was medmal or the DUIs and wills I mentioned. Medmal is very interesting because of the stories and characters involved, it is emotionally gripping (people get hurt by doctors in ways that would make your blood curdle, if there is anything I can try to dispel it is that lawyers are mercilessly going after doctors, so many doctors are absolutely irresponsible, reckless, and sometimes malicious), there is a STEM element with working with expert witnesses, and it is true trial work if you do not agree to a settlement. I feel challenged in a way small time crim law or wills would not.

8. Florida is regarded as a decent state for personal injury/general tort attorneys. They are trying to crack down, it probably will not go far. There are better states to operate in, there are worse, at least according to the rankings put out by various legal groups.

9. No one should go into medmal for the salary. Unless you are seeking to strike out on your own ASAP, it is not worth the time and investment of being a medmal associate. You should be seeking between 50-80k in Florida. Less than 50k and you are working for a boss who will not respect you, more than 80k is unrealistic.

I went to a school ranked in like the 70s. I went part time because I had a full time job and got some scholarship money, though I probably wouldn't have got into a much better full time program. I landed a biglaw summer job and then a clerkship so I decided I'd do law over my old career. I don't think people here would speak negatively of me. Some of the rejections I've gotten from some biglaw firms stung a little, but I'm fine with where I'm at. I do appreciate you answering questions. Some of your answers are a little combative. I just wanted to hear about your career dude. Maybe one day I'll leave biglaw and strike out on my own. I don't make 7 figures, but top of the biglaw associate scale, so like 550k, which is still high for a guy that grew up in a blue collar family, and would make leaving biglaw tough.

Yea that's not bad money per se. Hard to start from scratch at that point. Maybe this picture can inspire you though:

[Anonymous User]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

Are you daft or did you just forget you said "half attractive wife"??? Dude there are way more of us than there is you - we can do this all day and you're starting to lose it.

[johndooley]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

Are you daft or did you just forget you said "half attractive wife"??? Dude there are way more of us than there is you - we can do this all day and you're starting to lose it.

I do not know what is weirder, getting upset by an internet stranger saying you have a half-attractive wife (you probably do not have one, based on average age here and marriage trends today), or having to use an anonymous feature to protect the anonymous identity of your username.

Why does it matter that so many here rent and making under 500k a year that is used in large part to service debt? I do not know what "losing it" means in the context of internet posting. Please explain.

[johndooley]

Regardless of what he may have posted in other threads, Dooley clearly wins this one. Miserable biglaw associates are the ones who need to get a life for their attempt to drag and bully someone who has clearly built a more than fine life for himself. The only insecurities I perceive here are among the anons who think ganging up on someone for living in central Florida and not working as a corporate cog is funny.

- 2L lurker

Thank you, assuming you are the average age of a 2L you are wise beyond your years. Wish you the best.

[Moneytrees]

Have fun with a half attractive wife and children in bed stuy. Not long for this world.

WE FINALLY BROKE HIM. Not so helpful now Johny, are we?

I don't think Bed-Stuy is a good place for a family, no. I cannot help anyone who is trying to make it there in that circumstance. On that note, I will be tarpon fishing this weekend. A couple friends from the local bar association and I are taking a trip to the west coast of FL where one of them is currently keeping his boat. I do not have to appear at any in-person commitments until Wednesday so four days on the water should be great.

https://www.tarponfish.com/tampa-bay-tarpon-fishing/

If you all do not like the idea of being inland (despite all the lakes), then Tampa is another place to consider. It has all of the benefits Orlando does while being closer to a major body of water. I would say it has more career opportunities and has a higher rate of education if that is what you are looking for. I do not believe its culinary scene is as strong and its outdoor activities tend to be more difficult to arrange (tee times, court time, boat charters).

You miss the point - you're throwing out ad hominems despite your self-professed helpfulness. I could give a crap about whatever else you're saying. A+ for keeping on despite all the haters, though.

Saying a neighborhood is bad for families isn’t an ad hominem. Saying you don’t care about your wife and children because you live in a dangerous area is. All I did was saying it is high crime, that tarpon fishing is a blast, and Tampa more amenable to people here than Orlando.

Are you daft or did you just forget you said "half attractive wife"??? Dude there are way more of us than there is you - we can do this all day and you're starting to lose it.

I do not know what is weirder, getting upset by an internet stranger saying you have a half-attractive wife (you probably do not have one, based on average age here and marriage trends today), or having to use an anonymous feature to protect the anonymous identity of your username.

Why does it matter that so many here rent and making under 500k a year that is used in large part to service debt? I do not know what "losing it" means in the context of internet posting. Please explain.

I initially thought that Dooley was a hilarious troll, but now I think he might legit think that he is convincing Biglaw associates in NYC that they should move to Orlando haha. There are plenty of world class cities in the US not named NYC that are attractive to Biglaw associates, but Orlando simply isn't one of them.

[Tasteful Orlando]

Regardless of what he may have posted in other threads, Dooley clearly wins this one. Miserable biglaw associates are the ones who need to get a life for their attempt to drag and bully someone who has clearly built a more than fine life for himself. The only insecurities I perceive here are among the anons who think ganging up on someone for living in central Florida and not working as a corporate cog is funny.

- 2L lurker

I’m fine with Dooley but he’s definitely a little insecure. Like good for him for making a million, and I’m interested to hear about his path. I’m sure any TLS poster that graduated before 2012 is getting close. But people don’t come in here and tell people how great they have it and how much better their life is than anyone else.

It’s like when Trump gave Cruz shit for the way his wife looked. Like Trump or not that was a douche move.

If Dooley came in here with the post “Solo with established Orlando MedMal practice. AMA.” I think the reception would have been far better and he could’ve still told everyone how great he’s got it (as long as he wasn’t shitting on what other people are building).