Conflict isn’t always fun, and by sheer definition it requires an “extended disagreement”.  Litigation is one such type of conflict, but the battlefield is in the Court of law.  It is not for everyone, so it is important to have an attorney who will guide you through it all…an attorney who has the experience and fortitude needed to win your legal battle.  Dan Warner is one such attorney.

Attorney Dan Warner lives and breaths litigation.  It has been his passion for years, so much so that he has a reputation as a bull dog in the Courtroom.  While litigation isn’t for everyone, having someone like Dan on your side can make things simpler and help you overcome your fear of conflict.

Dan Warner grew up on the East Coast, near New York City.  It’s no secret that New Yorkers are some of the most vocal and straightforward people on the planet.  This defines who Dan Warner is, and translates into an attorney who will cut to the chase with you and give you honest advice that you will appreciate.  Growing up he knew he wanted to be a lawyer, and believes that his passion for litigation and the law is what sets him apart from other lawyers.

Dan went to law school and graduated at the top of his class with several honors.  It didn’t take long for him to realize afterwards that he loved litigation.  People tell him that he has a knack for litigation, and is a pit bull.  That means he fights hard for his clients and will fight hard for you.

How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?

I loved the critical thinking aspect of the practice of law.  A lot of lawyers are ok with just writing the same contracts every day, but I love how each case is different and requires me to think differently about the problem. Being a lawyer isn’t about “arguing”, its about knowing what arguments will win the day and which are just filler.  I like to think of myself as a the type of lawyer who provides advice based on what you need now and ten steps down the road, I like to think about the different avenues the decision can take you and help guide you from there.

How do you make money?

By selling you a solution.  I bill by the hour, but each hour is basically me putting out all distractions and focusing just on you and your problems.  The solution to your problems isn’t always going to be easy, or cheap, but I do my best to make sure you are taken care of.

How long did it take for you to become profitable?

A number of years.  It took a lot of sleepless nights, gallons of caffeine, and miles on my car to get to where I am today.  I quadrupuled the profitiability of our firm over a two year period.

When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?

I still do.  I think there are times as a business owner where you have that panic that sets in.  If the phones don’t ring for more than a few days your brain starts to go into defcon 5. I think every business owner has had that feeling, and there are times when that little voice gets louder than I want.  However,   I’m to the point now where I know that there are peaks and valleys.  There were times in the beginning when we started the firm that I thought maybe we should rethink our decision, but in the end it worked out.  I also take the time to appreciate how far I have come though.

How did you get your first customer?

It was a referral from a friend.  I spent a lot more time on the case than I could bill for, but I wanted to be extra careful.  That client is still with us today.

What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?

Being straightforward with people when I talk to them.  I don’t beat around the bush, there’s no point.  We charge a consultation fee that is a lot less than our normal hourly rate.  Some people don’t particularly care for it, but I have had numerous instances where people have gotten “free” advice that translated into a lot of unnecessary work by another lawyer.  In many of those instances I could have told the client what was and wasn’t needed, thereby saving them time, money, and a headache!  This has led to happier clients, as well as referrals from other people.

What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?

Taking a step back and enjoying life.  I became so focused on work that it impacted my health.  I love to work, and pride myself on my efficiency and work ethic.  However I have learned that sometimes it helps to take a step back to look at the bigger picture, breath, and then go in with a clear head.

What do you think it is that makes you successful?

My work ethic and passion for the law.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

I obtained a significant judgment for a client against a multi billion dollar insurance company.  It was pretty much unheard of and hard to do but I was able to get it and collect on it.

What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?

I’m always looking for new ways to do things and new practice areas. I love technology and the way our society is going I think that there are so many new niches that are opening up.

Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how would you like to be contacted?

Absolutely. Contact us through our website: http://kellywarnerlaw.com/lawyers/.

What do you do in your free time?

When I’m not at work I’m a family man.  I never thought I’d see myself as the type of guy who stays home on a Friday or Saturday night to watch cartoons with his daughter but I am.  I spend a lot of time outdoors swimming, and generally try to keep myself in the best shape possible.  I’m also an avid sportsman and my wife and I spend time at the shooting range.

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