3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Robert Lemle of Lemle Law Group

Patch partner Robert Lemle of Lemle Law Group told us how the legal industry has changed over the years and shared his definition of success.

Patch: When did you first know you wanted to become a lawyer?

Robert Lemle: My third grade teacher, Ms. Cargill, told me that she thought I'd make a great lawyer since I spoke well and thought quickly on my feet. That made a huge impression on me at a young age and stuck with me. She died in an auto accident the summer after I graduated her class.

Patch: If you had to recommend three books, what would they be and why?

Robert Lemle: "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" is a book everyone needs to read. "The Art of War" teaches to keep your friends close, but your enemies closer. "Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone" created a fantastic alternative world and was a fun read.

Patch: How does Lemle Law Group stand out from the competition?

Robert Lemle: We are a small, boutique firm that offers highly personalized service to our clients. The clients get to meet with me and speak directly about their issues. They aren't handed off to a paralegal. I pride myself on promptly responding to emails and messages from clients, even after business hours

Patch: As an attorney, you represent personal injury clients in Los Angeles and people who have been in accidents in Orange County. Do you find that dealing with personal injury and accident cases require different aspects of your legal expertise?

Robert Lemle: I've been doing this work almost exclusively for more than 25 years. I’ve never had two cases that are the same. Every case is different because every client is different. But by handling so many cases, I’ve gained a lot of experience in dealing with all kinds of personalities, and this knowledge is very helpful as I negotiate for my clients.

Patch: How has the legal industry changed over the years?

Robert Lemle: When I first began personal injury work, insurance companies were much more apt to settle claims before having to file a lawsuit. However, over the recent years, liability insurance companies are either refusing to negotiate in good faith, making low-ball offers or even denying liability in clear-cut cases. They know that many people don't know how to get them to increase their initial offers and that many attorneys are unwilling to file a lawsuit to fight for what's fair for their clients. Not us. I have tried more than 20 lawsuits in front of juries, and while we haven't won every one, the insurance companies know that we are not afraid to fight for our clients' rights.

Patch: What three questions should people ask themselves when looking for the right attorney?

Robert Lemle: Does this attorney have experience litigating personal injury cases? Does this attorney listen to my needs? Do I feel comfortable with this attorney on a personal basis and are they someone I want representing me?

Patch: What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles during autumn?

Robert Lemle: Autumn in L.A. is awesome now that the Rams are back in town!

Patch: What's your definition of success?

Robert Lemle: Success is not measured purely in economic terms. I work very hard at my job, but I put equal amounts of energy into my family life and, whenever I can, my passion, which are surfing. I find all three areas of my life fulfilling, which is my definition of success.

Patch: Do you have a favorite lawyer movie or TV show?

Robert Lemle: I started watching the TV show "Suits" recently. I'm really enjoying it.

Patch: How can readers contact you to learn more about Lemle Law Group?

Robert Lemle: You can contact us through our web site, www.lemlelaw.com or by calling (310) 392-3055.

Photo courtesy of Lemle Law Group