09/29/2023
It was 20 years ago that I founded the Traub Law Office, P.C. (the picture was taken a year later, in 2004) I was eight years removed from graduating law school and passing the bar. I had not had any practice as a lawyer and my knowledge of the law was outdated. I had a two-year old daughter and another who would be born three months later. My family was depending on me and I was terrified to make a mistake which could harm a client, terrified any advertising I thought of could be an ethical violation, terrified our savings would run out. I started in a small office that might have been 150 square feet. I bought a used U shaped desk that was so large, it took up most of the office, barely leaving any space for two visitor chairs. I spent my days reading law books on practical law, not just the theory we were taught in law school.
I spent my days learning different areas of the law and trying to make a living in each of them. I tried reviewing and writing contracts and forming new businesses but found the work tedious. I tried bankruptcy and family law, but found the work depressing. I tried real estate, including title closings, but found the work unrewarding. I tried estate planning and probate and enjoyed the work, but alas, could never garner enough clients to make a living. Times were rough. On multiple occasions, I worried about paying the rent. On at least three occasions, we faced the loss of health insurance coverage because I was so far behind on the payments.
Eventually, I tried personal injury law, our exclusive area of practice today. I'm passionate about helping people and I was fighting Goliaths on behalf of Davids. My friend from undergraduate and law school, Brooks Schuelke, became my unofficial mentor and go-to for help. Many other lawyers, if asked, would give advice along the way. Many clients would leave us good reviews and refer other people to us. And slowly the practice was built.
And now, 20 years later, I would like to say thank you. Thank you to all the colleagues who provided help along the way and volunteered their time. Thank you to all the clients who entrusted me with their important affairs. Thank you to my wife for putting up with me. Thank you for your referrals. I am truly blessed by my community and clients.
