Mark Scruggs

Service by email? Ugh! If you are like me, you overlook important emails often. It’s understandable; most of them don’t need to be read anyway. Other times, essential emails go directly to my spam folder, and I don’t see them for days because I’m not diligent about checking my spam filt… Read More

Let me have a show of hands. Does a counterclaim relate back to the filing date of the complaint? (Raise your hand if you think so) or is the counterclaim governed by the applicable statute of limitations? (Same response). I know I’ve had this discussion with other lawyers over the years.   Read More

Sometimes we lawyers take discovery deadlines lightly. So what’s the worst that can happen? Opposing counsel files a motion to compel discovery, and the Court enters an order compelling discovery?   Read More

It has taken me 20 years to identify steps lawyers can take throughout the life of an attorney-client relationship that will help avoid grievances and malpractice claims. You can learn them in a few minutes. Here are 10 steps to help guide your journey.   Read More

Rule 3 – Delayed Service of Complaint - It’s the Summons that Counts! Last month, I wrote about Williams v. Jennette and using Rule 6(b) to enlarge the time for filing the complaint that was filed using the Rule 3 “Delayed Service of Complaint” process. Today, I would like to take a ste… Read More

When it comes to Equitable Distribution, Complaint, Counterclaim, or Motion – It's Your Choice A few months ago, I received a call from an insured asking for help. She represented a party in a domestic case. She decided to file a motion in the cause for equitable distribution for several reasons instead … Read More

 Extending Time for Filing Under a Rule 3 Application and Order Extending Time to File Complaint. I came across the case of Williams v. Jennette recently and found once again the law is not what I think it is. Maybe this case will help you out of a tight spot one day. Plaintiffs commenced their suit on O… Read More

Rrecommendations for a successful limited scope representation. Read More

The accidental pro bono client (i.e., non-paying or slow-paying client) Read More

What keeps you doing what you are doing? When you think, “I would like to try something new,” what stops you? What is your next thought? Is it, “But I can’t because…”? Read More

Five reasons why you should review your client files this New Year and fire at least one client. Read More

Preventing Alias or Pluries summonses mistakes. Read More

A solid intake interview will go a long way to making sure the cases you choose to work on are fulfilling for you and your clients. Read More

Do you ever serve as trustee of a client’s trust? Read More

Social media, clients and ethics Read More