Professionally, I have dealt with attorneys in the context of personal injury cases, where they offer minimal payouts for client medical charges. These experiences had distorted my perception: I assumed most lawyers were transactional at best, exploitative at worst. When the time came to hire an attorney for representation, I expected the same convoluted jargon and cold professionalism, despite paying for advocacy.
To manage my anxiety ahead of our first discovery meeting, I brought Marion Sanford a tray of vegetable plants. Some part of me believed that if I gave something first, I would feel safer. I believed that if I made it seem as though we were friends, I would be able to trust him.
However, as it stands, I didn't need to resort to tricking myself. Throughout the discovery meeting, Marion showed me graphic photos and videos related to my case with extraordinary care. He didn't rush or force me into being re-traumatized. He offered context, validation, and treated me with the utmost dignity. That alone marked a turning point in our attorney-client relationship. I was not made to feel like a file number or a means to a legal win.
Yesterday in court, I saw that same quality come through again. Marion translated the legal process into something comprehensible. Quietly and professionally, he advocated on my behalf, treating me and my case with dignity that had been formerly robbed by an unjust system. He negotiated my case down to a simple fine, which was paid the same day. I walked out free of the weight that had been tormenting me for nearly two years.
Marion, you have protected my reputation, my future, and singlehandedly restored my faith in attorneys. For that, I am tremendously grateful.
And, Kirsten, you have been profoundly helpful throughout this daunting process, and have consistently made things easier, clearer, and more intelligible. Marion is tremendously lucky to have you on his team.
Thank you, TDCG, and may I never require your expertise again.
