Robert A Skovgaard

After well over 40 years practicing law in my hometown, I have narrowed my practice almost completely to familiy mattes (divorce, custody, support, modifications) and criminal defense work.  While both involve vitally imprortant and highly personal matters the approaches to handling these types of matters are very different.  While an experienced lawyer always prepares for trial in both types of cases, most cases are resoved by a negotiated settlement. 

In family matters, attention to detail is of paramount importance.  Every aspect of the case needs to be addressed and a thorough knowledge of all of the facts of the case is vital.  Whether negotiating with the other lawyer or doing a trial, you need to be ready for whatever the other side brings up.  There are also simple cases where the parties have agreed on everything.  In those cases, as long as the agreement is reasonable, the lawyers  job is to stay out of the way and help the client finish the case quickly and amicably.

In criminal matters, there are two very different types of cases.  With a guilty client, the approach needs to be one where broad strokes are used to paint the best picture of your client as is possible.  You need to be able to explain to the prosecutor that, although your client is guilty of the crime charged, it is not a reflection of his normal conduct.  The focus is on the client, not the charges.  With a client who is not guilty of the charges, the lawyer needs to prepare a point by point response to the claims of the prosecutor and police.  This involves discussions with the client and thorough investigation.  The lawyer needs to be able to convince the prosecutor to drop the charges or convince a jury that the client is not guilty.  The focus is on the charges and how your client coul not have comimitted them.

Negotiating is a skill that is developed over time.  In my years of practice, I have developed a style of negotiation, and a high level of credibility with other lawyers, both of which put me in a good position to get a very good result in cases that settle.  With trials, generally speaking, an attorney is either good or not.  My record of success in trials would seem to indicate that I am good at handling my self before juries and judges. 

Nothing is more important than satisfied client at the end of a matter.   That is what I strive for in all of my cases.