Lawyer Monthly - December 2024

How do you assess legal risk across a client’s business at the outset of an engagement, and why is this risk management mindset important? Assessing legal risk involves examining the client’s operations, industryspecific exposures, and any regulatory obligations they face. At the outset, I work with clients to review their policies and procedures, identifying potential vulnerabilities and areas for improvement. This risk management mindset is vital because it helps prevent issues before they escalate, creating a more stable foundation for long-term success. By proactively addressing these risks, we can often avoid costly litigation or mitigate potential impacts should litigation arise. Given your extensive experience with various legal matters, including wrongful death and class actions, how do you prioritize the unique needs of each client while also considering the broader implications of each case? Every client’s case has distinct aspects that require personalized attention. I begin by understanding their objectives and concerns, then craft a legal strategy that aligns with those goals. For complex cases with potential implications beyond the immediate outcome, I assess how our approach may impact broader industry standards or precedents. Balancing client needs with these wider considerations ensures that we provide not only effective representation but also strategic foresight. Community engagement appears to be important to you. How do your life experiences and community ties influence your approach to problem-solving for your clients? My community involvement has taught me the value of understanding different perspectives and fostering connections based on trust and empathy. These values translate directly to my practice, where I strive to approach each case with a client-centered mind set. My background has instilled a sense of responsibility and commitment, qualities that help me approach problem-solving with a focus on practical, impactful solutions that genuinely serve my clients’ best interests. places clients in an advantageous position, allowing us to resolve matters favorably while minimizing potential risks should we go to trial. Your case Gresham v. Fertitta Hospitality LLC resulted in a defense verdict for a Galveston, Texas hotel. What key lessons did you learn from that case that could apply to similar future disputes? In Gresham v. Fertitta Hospitality LLC, a critical takeaway was the importance of a narrative that resonated with the jury, alongside a rigorous, fact-based defense. We focused on illustrating our client’s adherence to safety standards and commitment to their guests’ well-being. This case underscored the value of preparing for every angle, from factual evidence to how we presented our arguments. This experience simply reinforced my belief that a well-prepared, compelling story is as essential as a solid legal argument. WWW.LAWYER-MONTHLY.COM 49 Contact Brian G. Cano Fee, Smith & Sharp, LLP Managing Partner – Houston 2777 Allen Parkway, Suite 800, Houston, Texas 77019 Tel: 713-362-8313 Fax: 713-362-8302 www.feesmith.com About Brian Brian Cano represents companies and individuals in high-exposure disputes throughout Texas in both state and federal courts. Whether he is zealously advocating for clients in high-stakes litigation or engaging in thoughtful negotiations, Brian seeks efficient, business-oriented solutions to client challenges. WITH OFFICES IN DALLAS, AUSTIN AND HOUSTON, FEE, SMITH & SHARP, LLP AND BRIAN CANO HAVE TEXAS COVERED.

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