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theculturedmarxist · 1 year ago

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Last Monday, one of the large number of Washington, D.C. insider trade publications - Politico - called out Biden antitrust policy as the single most problematic area for financiers. “In taking on tech giants and forcing the collapse of lucrative deals,” said Politico Morning Money, “Lina Khan has earned the status of Wall Street nemesis.” It’s true. The torpedoes launched last year - from rule-makings to challenges of Google and Spirit-JetBlue - are now exploding.

In this issue, we’re going to describe how the establishment is hitting back, in ways you don’t see, but which might become a political issue if the consultants and candidates who run campaigns actually notice what’s happening in Congress.

The short story is that big business is using partisanship to try and persuade Congressional Republicans, and some Democrats, to repeal antitrust laws, as well as drag antitrust enforcers before committees and harangue them in public. But among voters, within academia, and even in the conservative legal movement, antitrust is becoming far more relevant.

First, let’s set the context. This week, polling came out again showing Americans oppose monopolies and support antitrust laws, which isn’t a surprise. People dislike junk fees and unfair prices. We’ve all noticed high-profile monopoly-driven problems with episodes like the baby formula shortages, the failure of Ticketmaster’s ability to sell tickets, and ludicrously high prices for EpiPens and asthma inhalers.

This parade of incidents is one reason two-thirds of all Americans support anti-monopoly laws. That holds among both Biden and Trump voters, with more than 70% of both camps agreeing that monopolies are bad for the economy. And only 5% of Americans - across party affiliations - think that antitrust laws should be weakened.

One thing that surprised us is though people generally like technology firms, 46% still think the government should break up big tech, versus just 28% who don’t. What’s also interesting is that 52% of voters have heard little or nothing about the Biden administration’s economic policies, which means few people know what antitrust enforcers are doing. That could change relatively soon. Here’s Montana Senator Jon Tester, running for reelection in a very Trump-friendly state as a Democrat, attacking consolidation in the meat-packing and seed industries as a point of distinction between the parties.

It’s not just certain Democrats making the case. After all, in 2020, it was Donald Trump’s administration which brought the major Google antitrust suit currently being litigated. In academia, today legal scholars and historians are trying to reorient the history of America as one grounded in anti-monopoly thought, as this interesting collection of essays put out by the Tobin Project shows. And in key ways, conservative legal thinkers are ahead of the curve on consolidation. Take the highly influential George Mason law professor Todd Zywicki, who interviewed Biden antitrust chief Jonathan Kanter on the new proposed merger guidelines, calling them a “moderate” way to split the difference between traditional Chicago School conservatives and a newer populist sentiment.

That interview happened at, of all places, the Federalist Society, which is the beating heart of the conservative legal movement, where law professors, high-powered lawyers, circuit court judges and Supreme Court justices spend time networking and learning from each other. Justices Alito, Barrett, Gorsuch, and Kavanagh all attended last Friday’s black tie Federalist Society event.

Indeed, that dinner was part of the organization’s National Lawyer’s Convention, which had multiple discussions of the threats to conservatives by monopolization, as well as originalism and antitrust law. Stephanos Bibas, Third Circuit Judge, was the moderator of the panel on antitrust, and he often expressed surprise and interest in some of the comments by panelists, which included, among others, Deputy Assistant Attorney General of Antitrust Doha Mekki, Michigan professor Daniel Crane, and conservative plaintiff lawyer Ashley Keller. It wasn’t just one panel, the interest was pervasive. Lina Khan, for instance, did a well-attended fireside chat. And the main event on Saturday was a debate between two conservatives over whether social media platforms had sufficient monopoly power that the state could regulate them as common carriers.

youtube

And yet, in certain corners of the establishment, the pro-monopoly tradition that started in the 1980s remains dominant. Last week, an appropriations bill in the House - one of the spending bills that keeps government working - was amended multiple times to repeal antitrust laws.

Let’s look at a few of those proposals. There was a pro-junk fee amendment from Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), which would “prohibit funding for the FTC to make Unfair Competition rule-makings.” Such wording sounds anodyne. But if you strip away the legalese, Fitzgerald is seeking to do away with the rule-making authority the FTC is using to ban annoying junk fees, which deceive customers into paying higher prices for food, hotels, event tickets, car rentals and more. It’s also the authority the FTC is using to prohibit non-compete agreements, which trap people in their jobs and deprive workers of some $300 billion in wages per year.

There was another amendment which would prevent the FTC from enforcing its unfair methods of competition authority outside the bounds of the Clayton and Sherman Act. This one would effectively end or weaken key parts of the FTC’s case against Amazon, particularly its use of algorithms to raise prices in tacit collusion with other sellers, as well as its actions against pharmacy benefit managers on lower insulin prices and its work against price discrimination towards small and medium size grocers.

Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL) proposed an amendment to block the finalization of all rules that would affect more than $100 million of activity. This would get rid of things like the FTC’s ‘Click to Cancel’ provision that stops entities from cheating you with subscriptions, or the pre-merger notification requirement rule, which would help stop predatory acquisitions by private equity firms in health care. These are gifts to the Chamber of Commerce, at the expense of hundreds of millions of real people.

In this section of the underlying bill, Republican appropriators even included a provision to let auto dealers cheat customers with undisclosed added fees.

But this isn’t about Republicans, who in many ways are just being partisan and/or exercising muscle memory from the 1990s. In a separate appropriations bill, Rep.’s Massie (R-KY) and Democrat Lou Correa (D-CA) led a bi-partisan amendment to strip the Department of Transportation of its authority to investigate airline mergers. JetBlue, in other words, is doing a lot of lobbying, and is trying to win - through spreading around cash in Congress - what it can’t win in the JetBlue-Spirit merger proceeding. As a reminder, internal documents say this merger raises airfares by up to 40% overnight, so Correa and Massie are working hard to raise airline ticket prices.

The Massie-Correa amendment failed, with mostly Democrats against it. But a handful of Democrats who did vote for it - in addition to Correa, Rep.’s Lofgren (D-CA), Meeks (D-NY), Morelle (D-NY), and Panetta (D-CA) also voted to promote airline concentration - should have to answer for why. Correa is a particularly odd case and has attracted a lot of scrutiny for parroting big tech talking points, despite his district being near Los Angeles. Lofgren, from Silicon Valley, is also important, since she could take over the leading slot on the Democratic side of the Judiciary Committee if the current chair, Jerry Nadler, retires.

In other words, most, though not all, House Republicans seem out of touch with their own base on antitrust and monopoly issues. A whopping 206 House Republicans, many of whom represent “flyover states” most harmed by airline concentration, voted to block the Department of Transportation from investigating higher airfares and worsening airline service. So, even though 70% of the Republican base wants monopolies to be held accountable, only 13 House R’s - including Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) and outgoing Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO) - want the federal government to keep doing so.

But it’s not just these amendments that matter. Tomorrow at 10am, there’s an antitrust oversight hearing in the Judiciary Committee, which is the main part of the House of Representatives that controls antitrust law. The Chair of that committee, Jim Jordan, is hostile to the anti-monopoly project, and the main witness is Antitrust Division chief Jonathan Kanter, who Jordan wants to rake over the coals for his aggressive attempts to go after big tech. I got a copy of the memo that Jordan’s staff prepared, and it reads a lot like it was written by lawyers for big business.

Under Kanter, it reads, antitrust enforcers have “pursued costly policy changes that harm American businesses and empower foreign governments.” This memo attacks the proposed merger guidelines that conservative Zywicki praised, and generally argues that antitrust enforcers are both losers who can’t do anything right, and also all powerful policymakers who block too much economic activity. Basically, it’s the old Yiddish joke about a restaurant. The food is terrible, and the portions are too small!

How much does this Congressional noise matter? Well the hope is this stuff is just a lagging indicator, and that House Republicans will catch up to their voters. It’s worth highlighting that none of the amendments will make it into law. The underlying funding bills were never brought to the House floor because of disarray among Republicans. And even if they did pass the House, the Senate would likely reject most of these amendments, with the possible exception of the auto dealer one. After all, there’s substantial support in many parts of Congress for stronger antitrust action.

However, there’s a catch. These proposals are a possible indication of what monopolists hope they can get done next Congress, if the elections go the way they want. I think that’s unlikely, since there are important Republicans in the Senate who are supportive of antitrust, but it’s possible.

Perhaps more importantly, these amendments and hearings are also an indication that members of Congress do not think voters will notice their choices that affect their constituents. All that said, the juxtaposition of very popular antitrust with ham-fisted efforts to weaken antitrust provides fertile terrain for doing some brute politics.

Another way to think about this is that establishment politicians like Rep. Fitzgerald are out of touch with actual voters. Fitzgerald is from a pretty red district in Wisconsin, a state that narrowly voted for Biden in 2020. Given where most Republican and Trump voters are on issues of corporate power, the attack ads write themselves: Establishment Republicans want you to pay more for groceries, healthcare, and travel, and are perfectly fine letting monopoly corporations make decisions about your daily life.

That kind of ad could be done in a Republican primary, or a general election. They could also be used in Democratic primaries, or general elections. It really does not matter. The point is, right now, lower prices are the top priority for over two-thirds of voters. Yet, most voters haven’t heard about what antitrust enforcers are doing. So while it sounds politically insane to propose knee-capping rules that would bring prices down, it will only be problematic if voters hear about it. As we saw above, Senator Jon Tester thinks it’s politically salient enough to bring up. It won’t take much more for big business to be on the ballot in 2024.

The pro-monopoly world is hoping that doesn’t happen, and they can keep these conflicts as quiet as possible. Unfortunately for them, people really do like complaining about Ticketmaster.

#monopoly #capitalism #anti-trust #biden administration #republicans #democrats #us politics #Youtube

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pontemlaw · 2 years ago

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Chicago Business Defense Lawyer

Top Business and Commercial Lawyers in Chicago

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vinklerlawoffices · 1 month ago

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Top Traits of an Experienced Attorney Based in Chicago

When faced with legal challenges, finding an experienced attorney is important for securing the best possible outcome for your case. As a hub of business and culture, Chicago has many attorneys practicing in various fields.

However, not all attorneys are created equal. The level of expertise and experience that an attorney brings can make a significant difference in the result of your case. Let's explore the top traits that define an experienced attorney in Chicago and why these qualities matter when seeking legal representation.

In-depth knowledge of the Law

An experienced legal professional thoroughly understands the legal system and specific laws related to your case. In Chicago, local laws, regulations, and court practices may differ from other regions, making it essential for an attorney to be well-versed in Illinois law. A seasoned attorney has spent years learning and practicing law in the area, and they know the ins and outs and how to navigate complex legal issues quickly.

Whether you are dealing with a personal injury claim, family law dispute, or business litigation, a lawyer with extensive legal knowledge can craft well-rounded strategies that anticipate the challenges of your case and take advantage of every opportunity to strengthen your position.

Proven Track Record of Success

One of the most important indicators of an experienced attorney is a strong record of successfully handling cases similar to yours. When hiring a lawyer, looking for one with a history of winning cases or securing favorable settlements is essential. For example, if you need a personal injury attorney, you should seek out someone who has consistently recovered compensation for clients in Chicago.

Experienced attorneys understand what it takes to win, and they have the tenacity to build persuasive arguments, negotiate effectively, and present a solid case in court. An attorney with a proven track record also demonstrates their ability to navigate challenges and unexpected developments during legal proceedings.

Familiarity with the Chicago Court System

An experienced attorney based in Chicago has built relationships within the local court system and knows how to effectively communicate with judges, clerks, and other legal professionals. Familiarity with the workings of local courts can give an attorney an edge in managing your case, ensuring that deadlines are met, procedures are followed, and your case is presented most effectively.

Additionally, a seasoned Chicago attorney will understand the nuances of the judges and legal professionals in the area, allowing them to anticipate responses and adjust strategies accordingly.

Strong Communication and Negotiation Skills

A great attorney must possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Experienced attorneys can translate complex legal jargon into terms their clients can easily understand. They also need to effectively communicate their case to judges, juries, opposing counsel, and others involved in the legal process.

In addition to strong communication skills, an experienced attorney is a skilled negotiator. Many legal cases, particularly civil matters, are settled outside of court. An experienced lawyer will use their negotiation expertise to secure favorable settlements, protecting your interests.

Honesty and Transparency

An experienced attorney should be upfront and honest with you about the chances of success in your case. A seasoned attorney won't overpromise results or make guarantees that they cannot deliver. Instead, they will provide a realistic assessment of your situation, outlining potential risks and opportunities based on their experience.

Transparency also extends to billing practices. An experienced attorney will be transparent about their fee structure and any associated costs so that you understand the financial aspects of your case from the beginning. Honesty and integrity are critical traits in maintaining a trusting attorney-client relationship.

Compassion and Client-Centered Approach

In addition to legal expertise, an experienced attorney knows how to balance professionalism with empathy. Legal matters can be stressful, emotionally charged, and overwhelming, especially if you're dealing with personal injuries, family law issues, or criminal charges. A seasoned attorney is sensitive to your challenges and will provide guidance and support.

An experienced lawyer is also client-centered, which means they prioritize your best interests and advocate for you every step of the way. They take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident in the decisions being made about your case.

Excellent Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

Experience teaches attorneys to think critically and analyze all aspects of a case. Skilled lawyers can evaluate evidence, identify legal issues, and develop creative solutions to complex problems. An experienced Chicago attorney can use facts, legal precedent, and strategy to craft the most potent argument to support your case.

Additionally, they are prepared to adapt to changing circumstances, which can be crucial when unexpected developments arise during a legal matter. Their ability to think on their feet and devise solutions to complex legal challenges is one of the hallmarks of a successful attorney.

Resourcefulness and Strategic Thinking

An experienced attorney has access to a network of resources, including expert witnesses, investigators, and other legal professionals who can help build a solid case. They know when to bring in additional support and how to gather evidence to strengthen your position. Whether obtaining medical records, gathering witness testimony, or reviewing financial documents, an experienced attorney can use their resources strategically to your advantage.

Moreover, strategic thinking is key to ensuring that your case progresses smoothly. A seasoned lawyer will outline a clear action plan and guide you through each step of the legal process.

When seeking legal representation in Chicago, looking for a personal injury attorney with the right blend of experience, legal knowledge, and client-centered skills is essential. From their understanding of Illinois law to their proven success in local courts, experienced attorneys bring unparalleled value to your case. They combine strong communication skills, empathy, and resourcefulness to navigate legal challenges while protecting your interests.

Hiring an experienced attorney in Chicago improves your chances of success and ensures you have an advocate who truly understands your needs. Whether you're facing a personal injury claim, family law dispute, or business litigation, a seasoned attorney can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

#attorney Chicago #personal injury attorney #personal injury lawyer #lawyer in Chicago #Chicago lawyer

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rosenfeldlawyerchicago · 9 months ago

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Emerging Trends and Recent D

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#Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer

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lawyersdatascraping · 9 months ago

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Corporate Attorneys Email Database

Leveraging Corporate Attorneys Email Database for Law Firm Marketing Success

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meeksimpactlaw · 1 year ago

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Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorney Abels & Annes, P C

You’ll need to work with an attorney who can calculate your emotional injuries. Although you is probably not thinking about a lawsuit, the compensation you obtain can take the financial burden off your shoulders as you grieve. Tragically, many pedestrians do not survive after being struck by a car.

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omgjohnfbakerlawthings-blog · 5 years ago

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Small Business Lawyer Chicago

John F. Baker Law is looking for exceptional small and medium business clients in the Chicagoland area. We saw an underserved community of young, educated professionals that were fed up with the status quo, that have been burned before by bad business deals and subpar representation, or that are out on a limb and don’t even know it, and decreed that to be unacceptable. As a small business ourselves, we understand what’s at stake. Let us safeguard your investment, what you built with all your hard work, the product of all those late nights.

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i-james-glenn-blog · 6 years ago

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JR Glenn Law is focused on combining industry experience and legal knowledge to deliver value-added services centered on practical solutions for businesses of all sizes.

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lunarr-rrose · 4 years ago

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What is the Deal with Paralegals?

https://u109893.h.reiblackbook.com/generic11/the-storage-stud/what-is-the-deal-with-paralegals/

Courtright Law specializes in real estate, litigation, estate planning, and various civil and criminal matters. We focus on serving and protecting all interests of our clients by practicing honesty, integrity, and trust in all matters. We cater to both, individuals and businesses alike. Whether it’s helping you with matters related to commercial or residential real estate, negotiating transactions, drafting contracts, or other matters, we always prioritize your best interests, while limiting your liabilities. Our dedicated team of lawyers will always help protect your assets and enforce your rights.

https://www.getcourtright.com/

Fernando O. Angelucci is Founder and President of Titan Wealth Group. He also leads the firm’s finance and acquisitions departments. Fernando Angelucci and Steven Wear founded Titan Wealth Group in 2015, and under his leadership, the firm’s revenue has grown over 100% year over year. Today,

Find out more at

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Listen to our Podcast:

https://thestoragestud.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-deal-with-paralegals/

With an engineering background, Fernando is able to approach real estate investing with a keen analytical mindset that allows Titan Wealth Group to identify opportunities and project accurate pictures of future performance.

Titan Wealth Group was founded in 2015 with the vision of gathering individual investors that have the means to invest but lack either the time to find high-yield investment opportunities or the access to these off-market deals. All too often, founders Fernando Angelucci & Steven Wear came across investors who had deployed their capital only to regret the lack of consistency or degree of returns their investments were producing. In response, Titan Wealth Group provides access to highly-vetted real estate secured investments and off-market acquisition opportunities primarily in the Greater Chicago MSA. Today, Titan Wealth Group not only assists individual investors but has grown to support the acquisition goals and capital deployment of investment groups, private equity firms, and real estate investment trusts (REITs).

As a facilitator of wealth growth, Titan Wealth Group believes that success is not limited to the sum of our efforts and is infinite with what can be accomplished through partnership.

--------------------------------------------

Fernando Angelucci (00:01):

Hello, everyone! Welcome back. So on this episode of What's The Deal, The real estate podcast that gives answers, we'll be covering What's the Deal with Paralegals. It turns out they're not parachuting attorneys, as I thought when I first grew up, but instead crucial members of the legal field. Joining me today to coordinate the truth about paralegals is a good friend and colleague, Mary Gawlak. Hey Mary, how are you?

Mary Gawlak (00:30):

Hi, Fernando! How are you?

Fernando Angelucci (00:30):

I'm doing good. You feeling better?

Mary Gawlak (00:32):

Much better, much better. Thank you.

Fernando Angelucci (00:33):

Good.

Mary Gawlak (00:33):

Thank you.

Fernando Angelucci (00:34):

So, let's start off with just kind of telling the viewers who you are and what you do.

Mary Gawlak (00:40):

Well, I am, my name is Mary Gawlak. Like you said, I am a paralegal. I've worked for David Courtright, Courtright Law. I've been here for about almost two years, but I've been working in the field since 2002. I have an extensive background with real estate and mortgages. So that's why, I guess I landed my job here.

Fernando Angelucci (01:05):

So, give me a little bit about your history. How did you get into this field? Walk me through your past here.

Mary Gawlak (01:12):

I started out as a loan officer and that's how I got into real estate. I was a loan officer for a small brokerage from 2002 to 2004. Then I went from there to Washington Mutual Wells Fargo, and then I started getting a little bit more interested when I went to work for Mac Companies. I started getting into more of the legal aspect of the real estate transactions. And unfortunately, they went out of business. So, I went out on David's doorstep and he took me in and I'm glad he did. So

Fernando Angelucci (01:55):

Yeah, I love working with David , or I should say love working with you because I think it's more you and me working together than me and David. But, so

Mary Gawlak (02:03):

Thank you. I appreciate that. Even though you drive me crazy sometimes.

Fernando Angelucci (02:08):

I know, I'm so sorry.

Mary Gawlak (02:11):

I love you, Fernando. You know i did

Fernando Angelucci (02:15):

Hey, I got you that dartboard with a picture of me and Stevens, and now you can throw darts at us.

Fernando Angelucci (02:23):

Anytime you get mad at us. So, all right. So for the people that don't know, what is a paralegal? And how are they different from an attorney?

Mary Gawlak (02:32):

Well, of course we don't give any legal advice to anybody, but I basically do everything, coordinating, everything making sure we have all the necessary documents for closing. We start out by getting in a contract. I usually start out try to call our clients as soon as possible, introduce ourselves. Let them know that, you know, when it comes to inspection time or anything, if they want to ask for any repairs on the buy side to feel free to contact us David is very good about, you know, calling people back and going over punch lists or whatever repairs at the home inspectors want. So I kind of coordinate that, everything is timed. We have certain amount of time to, you know, get attorney mod letters out and inspection requests. So we have to monitor those time periods. I helped do that.

Mary Gawlak (03:30):

And David works with me on any attorney modification letters that we sent out to the contract or that we receive. He helps answer those. Going forward then I make sure we have survey's, title ordered. We do title examination, make sure the titles are clean for closing so that we don't have any last minute issues gathering information to clear title. Making sure we have, like I said, payoff information just anything else that we might need, as far as maybe some receipts, when there are repairs that need to be done for the sales side. Well, how to make sure that we send all the receipts and coordinate closing when it comes time. So I work with the lender as well. We tried to get all the information upfront so that we can give them their loan policy accurately and you know, and then just work towards closing whatever they need. I'm the go-to person. So everybody calls me for everything. So

Fernando Angelucci (04:43):

I know when I'm, so for us in our business, I know that the second, a contract is signed between me and a seller, me and a buyer, it immediately goes to you. Usually we'll put together an email with everything. I know, usually it's not enough though. Most of the times it's not enough. And then, I usually jump on the phone with you and say, Hey, Mary, here's what I got. Is there anything that I missed or here's some special things to consider on this deal? And then you're basically my go-to person from there until the closing. And then every once in a while, David will call me to say, Hey, closing's done. You got to check waiting for you or whatever it is.

Mary Gawlak (05:22):

Yeah. Those are the nice and easy ones.

Fernando Angelucci (05:27):

So it's been, I mean, as far as our business working with you has been absolutely amazing, you know, I'm not very good. I'm not very good with details and more of a high level person. And you kind of keep me on the straight and narrow. So that helps a lot. I really appreciate you for that. So, I know you covered like all the stuff that you do, but like let's say, what does it like a typical day in the life look like? Like what are you doing?

Mary Gawlak (05:56):

Right now?

Fernando Angelucci (05:57):

Today? Yeah. Other than jumping on a podcast with me.

Mary Gawlak (06:01):

My desk is a mess. I'm working on like five files at one time. Sometimes it gets a little tricky when we have a few closings on the same day, because there's figures that need to be sent over. And then we're going back and forth with what's this fee. Why is this fee here? Where are we charging this? Where are we not charging that? So that becomes a little tricky. I also have to send out and now, especially with the COVID, we have everything pre-signed by the seller. So I have to prepare all docs ahead of time, make sure they get it notarized. And we get originals back in time for closing. So there's just an extra step now that we have to worry about. But yes, the day in my life is working on five to 10 different files at the same time. So

Fernando Angelucci (06:53):

Doing everything from chasing sellers down to arguing with buyers,

Mary Gawlak (06:59):

It's hard to say because every deal is unique. Every deal that comes is different and there are different issues and different things that need to be done and addressed. So it's just kind of hard, but I'm just here and just do what I can while I'm here.

Fernando Angelucci (07:15):

Now I've dealt with some attorneys that just do everything themselves. They don't have any paralegals, you know, why should an attorney use paralegals or have paralegals in their office?

Mary Gawlak (07:26):

Well, because it just helps with emails and especially like when there are closings and life still goes on beside, you know, behind the scenes. So when they're busy at a closing, you know, there's other work that needs to get done, that isn't getting done. It's a lot of, you know, coordination and tracking and, you know, depending on how many files you have at one time, maybe they could do it themselves. But once you get into processing a lot of files, it could be a little tricky. So yeah, I'm his go-to person. He goes to the closing, I have everything ready for him while he's there dealing with that, I'm working on the next file or, you know, hearing the, you know, so yeah, it's a matter of just having a helping hand, which, you know, helps a lot. I'm sure David appreciates that. So,

Fernando Angelucci (08:22):

So we have, a lot of range of experience of people watching these podcasts, usually all the way from, you know, first investor I'm about to get ready to close on my first deal all the way up to, you know, I do 50, 75 deals a year, should a client or a new investor inquire about, you know, paralegals when choosing an attorney to work with, or is that, do you not ask about that? What's the kind of the,

Mary Gawlak (08:47):

Well, I mean, it really depends. I mean, for the most part it's really like, I would think like the attorney is one that would probably say, okay, I need a paralegal or I wouldn't. I think you get better service when there's a paralegal. Because again, he's running around at closings, I'm on the phone with clients and taking care of things that need to be taken care of. So, I mean, I guess four hands is better than two, so that's how I would look at it. And you know, like I said, he's busy a lot of times where he can't, you know, have, doesn't have the time to reach out to the client to ask them a question or can you confirm this or how do you want to respond where? That's what I do. I'm here to do that for him. So it, I think it's very beneficial to have if the attorney has a paralegal, but again, it's just, I guess it depends on the volume of files that they have at one time. But if it's a busy attorney, I would say yes, so paralegals is very beneficial and David will agree.

Fernando Angelucci (09:57):

Yeah, I know we have a couple of busy attorneys that actually watches as well. One reached out about two weeks ago. How would you advise an attorney that's ready to hire a paralegal? How do you advise them to choose the right paralegal? What are the things that they should be asking, looking for? Cause you've been fantastic. I love you to death, Mary, and if you were not in my life, I would pull all my hair up. So,

Mary Gawlak (10:20):

Thank you. I just think it's experience and you just have to have a passion for it too. You know, it's like I get sometimes a little worked up when something, you know, when I see somebody who's trying to get away with something. So I think it's also a passion that I have for the business, but mostly mainly experience because like I said, every situation is different and you come across some things that, you know, your past experience will help a lot. So

Fernando Angelucci (10:54):

One of the things that I've noticed about you that is fantastic is, how much attention to detail you have. Like you see everything and you go everything over everything with a fine-tooth comb, the contracts, the settlement statements.

Mary Gawlak (11:08):

Yeah, too much. That's a lot sometimes. Cause I,

Fernando Angelucci (11:12):

I mean, honestly, like I'm the exact opposite, right? Like I see the forest, not the trees and little things that are actually super important. They can derail a whole deal. Like I didn't even see it. I like glimpse right over it. And then you come back and you say, Hey Fernando, here's some things I noticed on a settlement statement. What are these charges? Where's this money going to, and I'm like, just close the deal. It's fine. It's like, we can't close the deal until I get this answers, Fernando. You know? So, I'd say if there's an attorney out there watching that is looking to hire paralegal with the attention to detail thing is huge. I think that is a,

Mary Gawlak (11:50):

You're right about that. Yes. Because I'm looking at a title right now that I see there's an old mortgage on there from 2001 that was never released. So if we wait, if I didn't catch it, we'd wait until the closing table and everybody would be looking around, okay, what is this, why is this, instead I caught it and I'm gonna clear it up before closing. So,

Fernando Angelucci (12:14):

Yeah. So, I know one of the things, one of the issues that I have, and I've been getting a lot better at this is being able to delegate tasks to people, to actually have them help me and not handcuff them and then second not micromanage them. So it's kind of rolls into my next question. What are some of the common mistakes that you have seen attorneys make when it comes to utilizing paralegals? Right.

Mary Gawlak (12:38):

I haven't really, I mean, I don't, I really don't know what other attorneys do behind the scenes. I do notice that sometimes the attorney gets a little, might get a little too involved in something and could potentially maybe even, you know kill the deal. So

Fernando Angelucci (13:00):

We've seen it on our deals, right? Some of the attorneys on the other side of the table, just getting too much into the nitty-gritty and not letting their staff work through it. And then, like you said, sometimes passions run a little high and everybody just says, you know what, hands in the air I'm done, walk away from the deal. And then all of a sudden this, the client is sitting there saying, you know, Hey, what happened? I thought we had somebody to buy our property. And all of a sudden, you know, I know we've killed a few deals in the past because we saw the attorney on the file and we say, you know what, we're not either they get a new attorney or we're not working with them. You know? So, it is super important. Now on the flip side, you know, what are some common mistakes that you've seen paralegals make when it comes to working with their attorneys or working with others?

Mary Gawlak (13:47):

Maybe the same thing, getting a little bit too involved, where they shouldn't. Instead of trying to maybe, you know, calm things down, maybe making things worse or, you know, not having the knowledge of how a transaction is supposed to be conducted and then raising suspicion because they don't know how to do it, or, you know, things like that. I've seen, you know, maybe that happen. Another thing is just not, no communication. That's a bad thing. And you know, also not keeping track of the timelines that you have. I mean, you could really mess up a project. I mean, you do have contingencies, you gotta be, you know, on top of those or ask for an extension, you know, so my, you know, if you don't stay on top of that, you can really hurt your clients because they might come back and say, well, you know, this is where I'm with the inspection. Oh, no, I didn't ask for an extension of the inspection period. It's too late. So that's very important. You have to be very, you know, on top, like I said, on top of the timelines and everything from the beginning of the contract to the end, it's just constant monitoring it. So

Fernando Angelucci (15:01):

I know the communication portion is huge. I remember a couple of files. I'm not going to name names here, but two years ago or so, where we had send out correspondence to the attorney on the other side of the table and it would take them two weeks to get back to us. And usually what I noticed is this is typical of those attorneys that are kind of semi-retired let's say, they're already, they don't have any staff. They don't have an office. They travel half of the time they're in Europe and the other, they don't have a paralegal, you know? So it takes a while for them to get back. And like you said, real estate is a very time-oriented transaction. Yeah. Very time sensitive. Absolutely. So that's huge. So for some of our newer investors that are watching, you know, what advice would you give to them when they're looking to close on a property for the first time? What are things that you expect to see from them? What should they be looking out for?

Mary Gawlak (15:57):

Well, again, it's, every situation is different, but communication is the main thing. I think they should be looking for somebody that if, they can call, they can email I'm available. I answer emails, you know, sometimes 10, 11 o'clock at night. So,

Fernando Angelucci (16:14):

Midnight. I've gotten, I'm getting texts, email from you at midnight.

Mary Gawlak (16:19):

Holidays, you name it.

Fernando Angelucci (16:19):

Right! Yeah, absolutely. No, I appreciate them.

Mary Gawlak (16:22):

I don't answer all emails, but if I see that it's something concerning somebody who's very concerned or it's very important, I will answer the emails. So I think that's very important. Just communication. I think that's the biggest thing is each be able to get your attorney or paralegal on the phone when you need to, you know, and without waiting for days for a return call or so,

Fernando Angelucci (16:49):

Well, maybe that kind of rolls into the next question, which is, you know, what advice would you give to somebody considering becoming a paralegal? So maybe being available, it'd be one of those things.

Mary Gawlak (16:59):

Yeah. Again, passion, passion, passion.

Fernando Angelucci (17:03):

Passion.

Mary Gawlak (17:03):

Cause if you don't like what you're doing, it could be very stressful, I guess.

Fernando Angelucci (17:11):

Yeah.

Mary Gawlak (17:11):

Is the word. So yeah, you gotta want to do it and you have to make yourself available. I think that's very important to us here at Courtright Laws, being able, I mean, David gives out a cell phone all the time too, and you know, just being available to the clients when they need you.

Fernando Angelucci (17:28):

And I think the flip side is important too, about, you know, how can a real estate investor do things to be a better partner to you and to the attorney, to the paralegals? You know, I know one of the things for me is, like you said, just over communicating everything, making sure every we're on the same page, but then also giving them enough information from the get go. I know that's something I had to learn with you, instead of trying to piecemealing emails back and forth. Now I have this whole email template says, here's the buyer. Here's the seller. Here's the real estate consultant, here are the brokers. Here's the lender. Here's all their contact information. Here are the important dates, attorney, attorney review inspection, contingency, close date. And I know, I'm sure, you're less likely to throw darts at my face on your dartboard when I do those types of emails. So it just,

Mary Gawlak (18:19):

It just saves a lot of back and forth and necessarily if you just, here's all the different, you know? Exactly. So,

Fernando Angelucci (18:27):

Yeah. And your time is super valuable. Like you said. I mean, at any given time you're working on five to 12 files at a given time. So having to constantly say,

Mary Gawlak (18:36):

That's per day. I actually have,

Fernando Angelucci (18:36):

I need this be,

Mary Gawlak (18:37):

Yeah. There's times when I have almost 30 files in the pipeline together. So, yeah

Fernando Angelucci (18:43):

Crazy. Yeah

Mary Gawlak (18:44):

I would say at a time, I'm usually working on that many at a time, but I do have, I mean, most times I do have 30 to 35 files in the pipeline at one time. So,

Fernando Angelucci (18:57):

How do you keep all that organized? That's my mind would go,

Mary Gawlak (19:00):

I have four kids. I learned how to,

Mary Gawlak (19:05):

Multitask. I'm a multi-tasker

Fernando Angelucci (19:08):

That's good. Well, so I really appreciate you coming on Mary, you know, I've said it multiple times, so I'm gonna say it again. I love you. You have made my life so much easier. Anything you want, you ask from me? I'll get it for you.

Mary Gawlak (19:20):

Thank you Fernando. You know what I like,

Fernando Angelucci (19:20):

Yeah I do. Before we conclude, How, how can people reach you? And is there anything that they should know before they try and contact you?

Mary Gawlak (19:34):

Well, it's very simple. If you have any questions at all, just give us a call. Our office number is 7089073080. My email address is [email protected]. So up on the screen, I see. Pretty good. So yeah. So if you have any questions at all, we're here everyday, night, at least till five. If you need to reach me after hours, please feel free to send me an email. I'll get back to you as soon as I can. That's all.

Fernando Angelucci (20:09):

And you usually do really quickly. So I appreciate that. Thank you very much for coming on Mary. You know, I got a couple more files. I'm sending you away this week, so be ready for them.

Mary Gawlak (20:19):

Cool, keep me busy.

Fernando Angelucci (20:19):

Yeah, I will.

Mary Gawlak (20:22):

I know I slacked for a whole week. I went away for a whole week on vacation,

Fernando Angelucci (20:28):

Yeah, I love how, when you say your on vacation, and yet I'm still getting emails coming in each week. At the next time you go on vacation, I'm taking your laptop and your cell phone. You're just going to have to go around with a rotary dial phone, to mute yourself on accident. There you go.

Mary Gawlak (20:42):

Okay. If I had a car.

Mary Gawlak (20:46):

Okay. Hey, I appreciate you, you take your time out of your busy day and I'll talk to you soon.

Mary Gawlak (20:50):

Okay. Thanks Fernando.

Fernando Angelucci (20:53):

Bye.

Mary Gawlak (20:53):

Bye bye.

Fernando Angelucci (20:55):

Well, everybody thanks for tuning in again to What's The deal, The real estate podcast that gives answers each week, we try to bring on a professional or an expert in the real estate field that someone from the outside of someone just getting started may not really understand what the role is or their importance appreciate you guys to tune in. If you have any questions or if you have any suggested topics or suggested guests, or maybe you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, go ahead and drop that in the comments below. Make sure to hit the subscribe button so that you get up to date notifications when we're going live in the future. And for this week, the post Thanksgiving edition, I hope you guys all have wonderful holidays leading into the Christmas and New Year's. Thank you very much. See you guys soon!

#real estate #real estate investing #the storage stud #storage stud #fernando angelucci #self storage #alternative funds #Mary Gawlak

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driverdefens · 1 year ago

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Experienced Chicago Business Litigation Lawyer

Looking for a top-notch business litigation lawyer in Chicago? Zimmerman Law Offices, P.C. is the premier choice. They offer trusted legal counsel for a wide range of commercial legal issues, from insurance companies in liquidation to breach of fiduciary duty. Count on us for the best assistance.

#Chicago Business Litigation Lawyer

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dennlawgroup · 3 years ago

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The Litigation Lawyer and Their Important Qualities

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One litigation lawyer may know the different aspects and areas of civil litigation. However, some lawyers focus and become experts in only one area of such. A civil lawyer should be considered an expert and competent lawyer with a handful of experience handling the cases they are proficient in.

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A USA civil rights lawyer must communicate clearly with their clients and other parties. They must have the skill to let people understand the theory of law while speaking they must also be centered in communicating efficiently with the decision-maker of the suit.

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Americans place critical importance on litigation lawyers, primarily since we pursue legal matters more often than other people worldwide. Thus, it is essential to understand the function of a litigation lawyer and the qualities we need to look for in them before bestowing our trust. Choosing the right Chicago injury lawyer can be a daunting task. However, you can take help from the state bar association, which helps you find the right USA personal injury attorney for your case.

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#Insurance Litigation Lawyer Andover

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lonelypond · 4 years ago

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Parent Trap, Ch. 6

NicoMaki, Love Live, 3.8K, 6/?

Summary: More things happen in the wrong order.

Girls On Film

Eli had texted that Nico had stopped by the office, upset, so Eli would be home too late for dinner. Nozomi frowned as the evening went on and the twins restlessness increased. So she sat them down with their own decks of playing cards, pulled out her Tarot cards and focused on Eli.

Lovers, always The Lovers, always connected with Eli. Magician Reversed, that was a little concerning. Something not going according to plan...followed by a reversed Ten Of Cups, the idyllic family scene overturned, conflicting values...Nozomi frowned and dealt another card: Queen Of Wands. That was a relief. Or a call to face up to something. But definitely an argument that even if Nozomi’s current path hit a few bumps, there was confidence in her decision.

“Mommy?”

Vik, ever sensitive to mood, sat next to Nozomi. Teddy was using both decks to build a card tunnel.

“Yes, Vik.”

“Is Mama mad at you?”

Vik always got to the point. They were extremely reliable about finding the one nagging weakness in either Nozomi or Eli’s arguments about anything and skewering it, directly on target.

“No, Auntie Nico just wanted to talk to her.”

“Is Auntie Nico mad at you?”

Nozomi chuckled, that was the question that kept coming back to her mind. “I don’t know, Рыбка (sweetie), maybe…”

Vik pointed at the Queen Of Wands, “That’s a Queen? She has short hair like me.”

“Yes, she does.”

“Is she friendly?”

Nozomi bobbed her head, debating how to reply. Vik had been showing more interest in the Tarot recently, “Friendly, but firm if you’ve messed up.”

“Like Mama.”

Nozomi couldn’t hold in the belly laugh as Vik spoke exactly what she’d been thinking.

“MOMMY!!! Look at this.” Teddy was waving frantically at her tunnel, tilting precariously at the start. “Take a picture for Mama.”

“Okay, Солнце (Sunshine).” Nozomi grabbed her phone, Vik sliding into her seat to examine the cards closer.

###

Nico hadn’t texted or called. Maki had to force herself to stop pacing next to Dia’s crib when she got her tucked in for the night. Dia had been fussy all day, but with no nap, actually fell asleep easily. Maybe a long soak was would be relaxing. Maki turned on the baby monitor, set up candles, dropped a lavender bath bomb, but couldn’t get Nico out of her mind. The mood had been so strange. Nico and her mother had obviously been having a private, complicated conversation and Maki couldn’t ignore the gut feeling that it was about her.

Maki really liked Nico. And although that morning in Philly had been intense, it hadn’t felt rushed. Nico had just made a safe space for them, for Maki to express what she wanted. What she really wanted. And really wanted again and again, which was an unusual feeling for her. The few times she’d been physically intimate with a potential partner, there had been affection, but no urgency about what next. Not seeing Nico, thinking maybe that this time Nico was the one indifferent, lacking urgency, that actually seemed to hurt. And Maki needed to know that she was guessing wrong about Nico’s feelings.

Panic stripped away subtext. And she sent the text before she could reread it.

M: Was today too much? Dia just really wanted to see you.

M: So did I. I’ve been looking forward to you being back in Chicago so we could ….

M: But we didn’t have to rush into the family thing...with your Mom...I can do casual…

Maki reread what she’d sent. And dropped her phone on the tray next to the bath. Too much, too clingy...Nico was going to forget Maki’s number and be on the way to her next, non clingy post concert groupie as soon as she could…

###

Nico stared intently at the screen of her phone, willing Eli to text her that Nozomi was crushed by the weight of guilt and Maki was fine with Nico continuing to court her....court her. Nico raspberried herself...this wasn’t courting, this was Nico wanting everything with the hot, fascinating, really into Nico Maki Nishikino...but what if Dia already happened to be theirs? Because of something Nozomi did. That would weird Maki out, make everything strange, and Nico had been sensing Maki leaning toward psyching herself out. Nico had been hoping getting back to Chicago would let Nico get them back on track, but what could Nico say if she saw Maki, without stumbling over Dia.

Maki’s text tone. Eli was weak and hadn’t done anything yet, she was probably driving around in circles pyching herself up to talk to Nozomi. And Eli had impressed upon Nico exactly how much grief Maki’s parents' lawyers could make for both of them, making Nico swear not to talk to Maki until Eli did. But Eli was weak… And Maki was texting.

M: But we didn’t have to rush into the family thing...with your Mom...I can do casual…

Nico had done casual a couple of times. She didn’t want it. She wanted the connection she felt when Maki looked at her, the openness, the vulnerability, the trust....and from what little Maki had said about her dating life prior to Nico, Nico guessed that intimacy had led to cooling off, so Maki was probably freaking out ‘cause Nico had been blowing her off all day. But not because of Maki reasons…

Nico’s promise to Eli wasn’t as important as Maki. Maki obviously needed emotional aftercare. Nico hit call.

“Nico?”

Maki sounded like she’d been caught mid yawn. It was adorable.

“Hi, Maki. Sorry I didn’t get back to you about takeout. Had to talk to Eli.”

“Is everything all right, Nico?” Nico heard a splash? Was Maki in the bath? The phone was obviously on speaker.

“Nico would like to join you in the bath.”

Maki laughed, it was euphoric, Nico was so hooked, Maki's voice hit Nico in all the good places. “They used to do that in movies, talk on the phone in their separate bubble baths, put their feet up, show off some leg.”

“Nico would love to see that.”

“So would I.” A little bit shy. Nico was beginning to forget why she’d been reluctant to call Maki.

“I’m in bed…”

“What’d you have for dinner.”

“Didn’t.”

“You sound like me in med school.”

“What were you like in med school? Were you buried in books? Or bodies? Dating cute nurses? Would you even have noticed Nico ten years ago?”

“How could anyone not notice Nico?”

“That’s what Nico always says…” Nico seized on an idea, maybe she could actually keep their conversation clear of things that Nico wasn’t ready to talk about, “What would we have talked about ten years ago?”

“I had this terrible roommate.”

“Really?”

“Really. Wild party animal, had to barricade myself in my room.” Maki sounded more amused than upset.

“You snuck into the parties, didn’t you?”

A pause, what might be towel noises. Nico desperately wanted a video call, “Maybe…but then my grades dropped and I moved back home.”

Keep this vibe going, Nico told herself. “So what did you do for fun after your brush with the wild side?”

“Piano. And Rin and I played soccer in a league. That was fun.”

“Nico bets you looked cute in your uniform.”

Sexy indignation that made Nico want to rip off whatever Maki had covered herself with, “ I looked HOT, Nico, I was 22 and in great shape.”

“You’re still in great shape, Nico knows.”

A giggle, a pause, two people syncing up again.

“What were you like ten years ago?” Maki asked softly, her voice a frisson in Nico's ear.

“Too busy for anything. Constantly on tour. Studying finance on the side. I got my economics degree over six years. Magna cum laude.”

“I didn’t know that.”

“Nico planned to be a success. Now the suits can’t say Nico doesn’t know how business works.”

“Impressive.” Maki breathed.

‘Nico strives.”

###

10 p.m. Nozomi was getting worried. Eli was never out this late. Nozomi had let the twins roughhouse past their bedtime because whenever Eli got home, there was going to be a serious conversation. Although the cards had been full of warnings about that, Nozomi knew the truth in her gut before she dealt out the spread.

Key in the door, sigh as Eli closed it behind her. Eli, looking tired, wearing glasses, she’d been crying. She stopped, clear gaze meeting Nozomi’s.

“I’ve hurt my oldest friend, exposed myself to litigation, and could lose my practice. Was that what you meant to happen, Nozomi?”

Nozomi winced.

Eli had her hands shoved in the pockets of her overcoat, “What were you thinking?”

“About?”

“Nozomi.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Eli. Has Nico been lying about me?”

Eli glared, her jaw set, nostrils flared. “If this is how you’re going to behave, I’ll be in the guest room.”

“That upsets the twins. Can’t you just pretend to fall asleep on the couch again?” Nozomi knew this was not the ideal way to react, but with Eli so serious, she found an edge of panic pushing her to impulsive speech.

“Nozomi…” Eli’s hands were warm and strong as she held Nozomi’s, “Please just explain why you altered Nico’s paperwork.”

“I had a feeling.”

“Nico was crying. Maki’s going to be livid.”

Nozomi felt a twinge of guilt, sure, but she also knew that everything would work out. This must be about Dia. Nico and Maki were getting along, that was obvious from Nico’s texts to Eli. Surely they could sort it out.

“I’d like to say something to Maki that doesn’t just sound like my wife played a stupid prank. Please, Nozomi, help me understand.”

Nozomi giggled, “I had a feeling, Eli. The cards had told me there would be a change in Nico’s fortunes and then I saw her in your office…she obviously wants a family, Eli, she always has, you told me that. I just want to help the universe give her one. Just let them work it out."

Eli had no reply. When Nozomi doubled down on ‘the cards’ and intuition, there was no opening for Eli to logic her out of her beliefs. And the damnable thing was, it always worked out. But this wasn’t their life, this was Nico and Maki and Dia’s. Nozomi had been wrong to meddle. And left Eli terribly vulnerable.

Too exhausted to argue or strategize any more, Eli tossed her coat on the couch. “I’m going to bed. I have to talk to Maki tomorrow.”

“Did you eat?”

Eli shrugged.

“It will work out, Eli. Have faith."

Eli shook her head, “Good night, love.”

A too quick kiss on the cheek, leaving Nozomi alone, to curl up in Eli’s coat, on a corner of the couch, unpleasantly surprised by Eli’s intransigence. Had she gone too far this time?

###

A long afternoon, Maki finally getting a chance to look at her phone. Message from Raye, Dia’s nanny. Dia fussy and running a fever, over a hundred. Maki bit her lip. That might explain yesterday’s fit of temper and how easily Dia fell asleep last night.

“Dr. Nishikino?” The lab tech came around the corner.

“What’s up, Kadir?”

“Do you want to see the results of Mx. Nabe’s bloodwork?”

Maki glanced at her smart watch. Her shift was over twenty minutes ago. And the late dinner with Nico was now probably not going to happen. “Let me check something.” Maki walked confidently to the call board. Tonight’s on call orthopedic surgeon was Dr. Wilhimena Mae Tompkins. Top of the line. Maki’s first or second choice. “Just send them to Dr. Tompkins. The patient’s already been moved to a room, right?”

“Orderlies just took her upstairs.”

“Guess I’m done here then. Dia’s running a fever so I’ve got one more patient to see.” Maki winked, Kadir grinned.

“See you in a couple days then, Doc. And I hope Dia feels better.”

“Thanks. I’m sure it’s nothing. She’s probably teething.”

Now to text Nico.

###

Nico hadn’t heard from Eli all day. Obviously Eli had chickened out. Like Nico expected. Time for a call. Eli picked up.

“Are you hiding from your wife in your office?”

“Shut up, Nico.”

“Don’t talk to Nico like that. You promised Nico you’d talk to Maki. Have you talked to Maki?”

No reply.

“Eli.”

“I’m still working out what to say.”

“Start with, I really didn’t mean for my nosy, pushy, annoying hussy of a wife to…”

“Don’t talk about Nozomi like that.”

NIco sighed, “C’mon, Eli. Nozomi is currently on the bottom of Nico’s friend list. I’m not going to be nice.”

“She’s my wife, Nico. It’s complicated.”

“What is happening to Nico is complicated. You’re just not willing to deal with the consequences of your wife’s intrusive, illegal, apocalyptic meddling. Nico could sue.”

“Yes, you could.” Eli sounded so tired, but Nico had zero sympathy for the enabler.

“Talk to Maki or I will.”

“Nico.”

End call. Before Nico could put her phone down, Maki’s text tone pinged.

M: Dia’s got a fever. I’m heading home. We'll have to postpone dinner ●︿●

N: Nico will bring dinner over (っ˘ڡ˘ς)

M: Pizza?

Nico chuckled.

N: Whatever the sexy doctor wants.

M: Pizza ᕕ[ ᓀ ڡ ᓂ ]ㄏ─∈

M: And you （＾_-）

N: Is an hour good?

M: Sure.

N: See both my best girls then.

Nico hit Eli’s number.

“Tell Maki.”

“Tomorrow.”

“Eli.”

“I’m drafting a presentation to explain right now.”

“Include a big picture of Nozomi with an arrow pointing to guilty.”

“Good night, Nico.”

“Talk to Maki, Eli. Or Nico talks to lawyers.”

Eli seemed more concerned about Nico and the Nishikino’s lawyers than what Nozomi’s action had cost Nico. Eli continued to fail, freefalling down Nico’s friend list. Another call. Mama. Nico let that go to voicemail. Maybe she should forward that voicemail and the three before it to Eli. Maybe then Eli would realize some of the pressure Nico was feeling.

###

Nico knocked. Maki was right there, opening the door, in a showcasing all her curves casual combo of black leggings and a mostly undone gray henley. She waved Nico into the wide open family room that seemed to make up at least 70% of the first floor of the carriage house. A baby grand was tucked into a windowed corner, a huge sectional sofa was centered and facing the fireplace, and the walls were decorated with seasonal photos of a shrine and what looked like birds and dragons restored from antique wooden screens. Set a calm, classy mood.

“So are the Disney movie posters in your bedroom, Cinderella?” Nico bounced up to kiss Maki.

Maki smiled, “I took these photos myself, during some visits to Kyoto and Tokyo, before med school, and the screens are damaged family heirlooms I restored sections of.”

“Hands on decorating.”

“I want Dia to grow up with her heritage around her.”

Silent, Nico walked around the sectional, putting the pizza boxes on the wood and glass table, not sure what to say about Dia.

“She’s feeling better, I think. Her fever went down.” Maki leaned on the sofa back.

“Good.”

“Want to check in on her and say hello before we eat?”

Nico deflected. “Pizza first?”

Maki opened the box with Carmen’s excellent stuffed pesto pizza. A garlic smell wafted out with the steam, filling the room, “It’s still hot.”

“Nico delivered pizzas for a summer. I know the tricks.”

“Nico knows a lot. Let's say good night to Dia.” Maki slid her arm through Nico’s, stealing a quick kiss and half dragging Nico to the stairs.

###

Dia’s nursery was blue and green and white, with a sea and lighthouse theme. Fish and mammals and turtles played on the walls. In the low light of the nightlight, there was an almost bioluminescent glow to the undersea residents.

“Nico is surprised Little Mermaid wasn’t a choice when we talked Disney movies.”

“Don’t like that one…” Maki muttered.

“No, it’d be hard to lose your voice.”

“And music.”

“Yeah. Nico would hate that.”

They stood at the crib, Nico staring down at Dia, Maki watching Nico, Nico trying not to remember Cotaro in his crib, dark hair, serious face...Dia was relaxed, arms flung out, a tiny smile on her face.

What if they were in their house, standing together, Maki and Nico, both of them, looking at a child they’d had together after a whirlwind courtship and marriage? What if this were Nico’s house and when Dia woke up, she looked at Nico, saying “Momma,” and reaching up for a hug? What if…?

“She’s beautiful.” Nico whispered and then her breath hitched and sudden water in her eyes stung. She let go of the crib and rushed to the door.

“Good night, Dia. We’ll see you tomorrow.” Maki left the lightest of kisses on her daughter’s forehead, wondering if she’d seen tears in Nico’s eyes. But Nico was already downstairs, considering the stuffed pizzas.

“Do you want pesto or sausage? And we need plates. And forks. And…”

“I’ve had stuffed pizza before, Nico. Just give me a minute to find the pie server.”

###

Cocoa had raved about a movie called The Half Of It so Nico suggested they watch that. Maki had recognized it, but said Nico needed to watch Saving Face, director Alice Wu’s first movie, about a doctor and a dancer and their families.

“You’ll love the mom. She’s so funny.”

“And the main character’s a doctor? So Nico will find out what doctoring is like?”

“Yep.”

The movie progressed; the pizza was eaten, with occasional garlic flavored kisses shared, but Maki kept picking up unease from Nico. Was it lingering from yesterday, the obvious tension between Nico and her mom? Or whatever Nico and Eli had talked about last night? Something obviously had claimed some of Nico’s attention. But after pizza, Maki had curled up next to Nico, encouraging Nico to drop her arm around Maki’s shoulder. And as the flirting between Wil and Vivian got sexier, kisses and more intimate gestures right there on the screen, building a mood, Maki could feel Nico pull her closer. Maki nudged Nico on the cheek, getting her to turn, tempting her into a luring, longing kiss. Whatever worries had been on Nico’s mind had been eclipsed, Maki smiling as she felt agile hands slide under her shirt, warm against bare skin, Nico murmuring endearments between kisses and shiver inducing nibbles along Maki’s neck and jaw.

And then Nico’s phone went off, one of her raps.

“Damn it.” Nico grabbed for her phone, Maki falling down on the couch when Nico let go, “It’s Cocoro’s emergency tone. Sorry.” And all Nico’s attention was on the call, “What’s up? Nico’s super busy....Yes, Maki and Dia came to the house yesterday. Did Mama tell you?”

Dia? Alert, Maki sat up.

Nico was listening. “What did Mama say...why...no, we can’t say that….Nico won’t let…”

Maki had no idea why Nico’s sister had anything to say about Dia. Nico had turned away, about to get off the couch, Maki reached over Nico’s shoulder, pulling the phone away, switching it to speaker.

“Why are you talking about my daughter?”

“Dr. Nishikino?” Cocoro’s voice was tense, “You’re there? Good, then we can settle what the language should be.”

“What language? Why does Nico have anything to do with Dia?”

Nico grunted, it reminded Maki of someone stubbing a toe.

“Pictures have been circulating on TWIG of Nico Yazawa’s secret daughter.”

“Nico doesn’t have a secret daughter…” Maki suddenly realized she was doing all the talking, “Nico?”

Nico took her phone back, leaving it on speaker, but switching to the TWIG app. A quick search of “#Nico” brought up a snap of Nico hugging Dia in front of her house, Nico’s mother in the background, Maki nowhere to be seen.

Nico stared. Cocoro continued to panic chatter, “All we need to do is release a picture of you, Dr. Nishikino, Dr. Nishikino’s daughter, and the statement that you and Dr. Nishikino are dating and Dia is not your daughter. People are running facial match software and getting confirmation. Next they’ll be wondering who the father is…”

“Dia doesn't have a father,” Maki’s fists clenched. No one but Eli was supposed to have any details of her pregnancy with Dia.

“Shut up. Both of you.” Nico snapped, the phone dropping to the couch, Nico’s head dropping into her hands.

“Just tell them Dia’s my daughter.”

Cocoro's tone brightened. “Dr. Nishikino is being unexpectedly helpful, Nico. We can get ahead of this.”

“Just release the statement, Cocoro. Nico and I can talk to the press.” A practical solution, Maki decided.

“Let Nico think. Both of you. Just be quiet. Nico needs quiet.” Nico ended the call.

“Nico, Dia is my daughter. We can just tell everyone. We don’t have to keep us dating a secret. I don’t care what my parents think.” Maki sat next to Nico, brushing fingers through Nico’s hair.

There was a long pause, Nico enjoying Maki's touch. Then she pulled away. “Maki could just marry me. That might save Nico.” Nico sounded like someone hanging onto a building ledge by a ladder made of split fingernails and cruel laughter.

Nico’s tone and odd behavior scared Maki, “How can you joke about that, Nico?”

Nico raised her head, tears streaming down her face, “You don’t know this yet, but Nico is a terrible liar.”

“What does that mean Nico? Do you have a secret daughter…”

“Maki…”

Maki’s ringtone went off. She glanced at her phone, “It’s Eli.”

Nico dropped her head again, “Answer it. We might as well blow everything up.”

Maki hit speaker, snarling, “What is it, Eli? Want to let me know Dia is Nico’s daughter too?”

“Oh good,” Eli sounded relieved, “Nico told you.”

Maki was on her feet, shouting, “NICO TOLD ME WHAT?!!!???!!!”

“About her paperwork? And Nozomi? I'm really sorry, Maki.”

Maki felt pale. Her knees wobbled. The room unfocused. Black spots dotting everything. Nico ended the call.

Before Maki could fall, Nico was there, “Maki? C’mon, breathe. Take it slow, breathe for Nico.”

Maki shook off Nico, and ran upstairs to Dia, pulling her out of her crib, holding her tightly, Dia blinking, confused. Nico was there, almost instantly.

“Can we talk?”

“Go away, Nico.”

“Maki. Please.”

“GO AWAY NOW, NICO!” Maki screamed. “Leave us alone.”

Dia started to cry.

Nico stepped back, “Call me later, please, Maki. Or let Eli explain. I’ll have Cocoro tell everyone Dia’s your daughter. I’m sorry this happened like this." A pause, Nico reaching a hand out, almost touching them. "It’ll be all right, Dia.”

“Don’t tell Dia anything.” Maki growled, Dia pressed against her as she glared at Nico, daring her to come any closer.

Retreating into the hall, Nico forced tears back, or she’d be wailing as loud as Dia. How had this gone so wrong?

A/N: Rainy, moody weather.

#NicoMaki #baby Dia #Nishikino Maki #Yazawa Nico #NozoEli #Ayase Eli #Tojo Nozomi #Single Parent AU #angsty

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xofaddiction · 4 years ago

Photo

𝕠𝕙 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕣𝕪 𝕪𝕠𝕦'𝕝𝕝 𝕗𝕚𝕟𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕗𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕖𝕝𝕤𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕔𝕒𝕟 𝕕𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕠𝕙 𝕓𝕒𝕓𝕖 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕣𝕪 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕞𝕪 𝕤𝕠𝕟 𝕚𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕤𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕤𝕗𝕚𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕤𝕚𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕖 𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕕 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕒𝕟

full name: gabriel vincent craine

nicknames: gabe

age: 34

date of birth: sept. 7

zodiac: virgo

gender: male

pronouns: he/him

sexuality: heterosexual

physical

hair color: blond

eye color: blue

height: 6′2″

weight: 194 lbs

personality

morality: lawful neutral

positive traits: efficient, practical, diligent, focused, intelligent, thorough, shy.

negative traits: hypercritical, demanding, hard to please, self-conscious, reclusive.

job: lawyer

skills: organized, good at time management, unshakable, can speak a few languages (english, spanish, french, and japanese), writing, small guitar skills.

family

parents: vincent and gloria craine.

siblings: isaiah craine ( location unknown deceased )

backstory and details - ＴＲＩＧＧＥＲＷＡＲＮＩＮＧ : mentions of alcoholism, miscarriage/abortion, gun violence, divorce. feelsy shitTM

✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴

home life was good. born to vincent and gloria craine one sunny labor day weekend, gabriel was their miracle baby. he was a blond haired, blue eyed, chubby cheeked toddler who captured their hearts and affections beyond what they could ever imagine. even when their youngest was born, isaiah could and would never live up to his brother’s name.

his family was very catholic, and even in that he was diligent. mass on sundays, easter and christmas, confirmed and baptized, he did what was expected of him as a man of his faith. he was thankful academics kept him too busy to become an altar boy, indulging so deeply he only passively believed in felt like sacrilege beyond what he thought himself capable of.

he was a happy child that grew into a golden boy. valedictorian of his high school, gabe was heavily involved in choir, track, debate team, student council, and won prom king in his junior and senior years without much effort. it wasn’t because he considered himself popular, but because he was personable. he wasn’t snooty or above hanging out with any and every faction of people around school. he found bits of himself in everyone and was always willing to help or tutor in any way he could.

when it came time for college, it came as no surprise that he was fit for ivy league. his choice was dartmouth, somewhere with a liberal atmosphere where he could study without the competitive, stuck up harvard-yale students hounding him to do more and be better. he double majored in english and history and chose to minor in computer science. his degrees were achieved and he finished top of his class.

he attended law school at oxford, electing to study abroad in the uk and take in more than what chicago and new hampshire could. he knew what he learned in litigation for foreign law wouldn’t be useful in america, but it was important for him to understand the nuances of european law as someone interested in international law.

while at oxford, he met danielle fournier, a law student in his class that shared interests with him; from music to art to history and philosophy, she bewitched him body and soul and he fell in love harder than he thought possible. for the moment, he thought she was the endgame for him.

when it came time for him to move back to america, danielle came with him. he enrolled at yale law and worked a full-time job as an assistant in a law firm, doing what he could to support himself and the girl he loved. he did everything right; he went to school, got a dream job, moved off to new york and worked himself to success, proposed to the girl and married her. everything was was it should have been.

he was a shining beacon of hope and an example to everyone in his family, most of all his younger brother. he knew that isaiah had an odd sort of idolization over him. he was the big brother, the one who encouraged and stood as a confidant and first friend for isaiah.

the family seemed complete; two perfectly happy parents, a son with a wife and a bright future, another dating a young, successful woman. they seemed the picture of perfection, but there was some nagging presence that spoke otherwise. his parents were more friends than husband and wife- they stayed together for appearance sake. gabriel was a ceaseless workhorse, and though he did his best to be the good man who came home by 7pm, when he did come home, he found his wife drunk and drowsy, always reeking of expensive wine and stake perfume. and as for his brother and his girlfriend; there was something that felt off, whether it was in their relationship or his own, he did not know. however, something in the back of gabriel’s mind that knew his and katerina vasile’s stories would not end as they had began; acquaintances that only spoke at family gatherings.

he never believed in soul mates or twin flames, despite believing in the presence of a soul. he never understood that even upon a single meeting someone could mean so much to another person right up until the moment it happened. he barely knew katerina, and yet he saw something in her he knew he wouldn’t ever be able to forget. she would stay in his mind forever, and though he loved danielle with everything he had in him, he knew that even in the darkness when he lay drifting, it was her eyes he’d remember.

he would never act on it; he was married and happy to be, and whether the relationship between himself remain stale and passive or grow into platonic companionship, he was glad for either, though he would prefer the latter. if it meant being to keep those eyes in his life, it was worth it. he liked katerina, cared for her and paid attention to what she said, far more than his brother seemed to, though his interaction was not inappropriate.

it wasn’t often he had to be strict or commanding over the younger sibling that so adored him, but a family christmas party changed that. isiaiah was showing off; acting like a prick to katerina for the sake of bolstering himself in his brother’s eyes. gabriel hated it. excusing himself and his brother with a charming smile, gabriel gripped isiaiah by the flesh on the underside of his arm and dragging him to a quiet section of the house, gabriel’s voice dropped low and dripped venom that had never before passed his lips in the presence of family: “if i ever fucking see you treat that girl like that ever again, i’ll drag you outside and break your face against the goddamn curb, got that?” he threw his brother’s arm and stormed back in before another word could be said, plastering on a smile as he went to keep danielle from pouring another drink.

danielle was always a big drinker, but her usage escalated well within their marriage. she got pregnant and while gabriel thought she was happy to be, she was not. behind his back she was taking doses of a prescription drug that halts progression of pregnancy. she lost the baby and gabe was devastated. he’d never really thought about being a father, but the when presented the prospect of it, excited him. he thought he could be a good father, not only because he was stable and happy, but because he loved the baby from the moment he got the news.

though hurt beyond measure, he was hopeful; they managed once, they could manage again when the time was right? if there was a god that saw his diligence, surely he’d bless them with another chance?

danielle’s guilt drove her to drink and drink heavily. she lied to the man she loved and couldn’t quiet the raging inner monologue that scorned save for drowning it at the bottom of a bottle. more than one argument came of gabe begging her to slow down and her subsequent refusal. he lost a child, he didn’t want to lose his wife, too. he stood with her through it all, hoping that one day everything would be better.

over a year later, happy news came once more. danielle was pregnant again, and she seemed elated. gabriel was over the moon. overnight everything seemed to improve: his wife had stopped drinking, he was going to be a father, they were a picture of happiness ready to work their lives around a new baby. not not everything was as it seemed.

one night, roused by a work call, gabriel realized his wife wasn’t in bed beside him. worried she might be feeling poorly from morning sickness he followed the trail of light into the bathroom and glanced in, just in time to watch danielle throw back a pill. he would have ignored it, but something in his gut told him otherwise. when he pushed the door open further, danielle jumped, frightened and caught off guard. the pill bottle fell to the floor and rolled to his feet. when he saw the label, he recognized the prescription name as a pregnancy terminator from a lawsuit he’d once worked.

his heart shattered in an instant. it’s important to note that gabriel never would have forced danielle to go through with a pregnancy she wasn’t comfortable in. and while it would have hurt, he would have accepted her decision with grace and understanding. it was the fact that she bold-face lied to him. she lied about being happy, she lied about wanting to build a life with him, she watched his grief and kept everything locked away, and was set on doing it again.

gabriel wordlessly moved back into the bedroom and got a suitcase to pack a bag. he wasn’t ready for a separation or divorce, he just couldn’t have her in his ear when he so desperately needed to think.

while his back was turned, danielle reached into his bedside table and pulled out a loaded gun he kept in case of emergencies and held it to his back. she demanded he hear her side of it before going anywhere. and so he did. for two days he was kept downstairs in the kitchen at gunpoint, allowed to do nothing except watch her drink and listen to her rant and beg his forgiveness.

she waved the gun around recklessly, throwing empty bottles on the wall behind him and the floor in front of his feet. he watched her do this with a distant, cold, dejected demeanor, never jumping or shying away from the blows she had to throw. he was hurting, more than he realized he ever could and numb to her wallowing. the suffering he felt was her cause, he was angry. hurt. he didn’t want to hear her, he didn’t want to look her in the eyes. there was a grim sense that they would both die there in that house, that she would put the gun to his temple and shoot and then die in any which way she chose to do.

it took all of his resolve and none of his might to realize that what he saw in her was a facade. for so long, he’d been the best he could be: for her, for his parents, even his undeserving brother. and where did it get him? alone. his parents never worried; he was the exalted heir, the good boy, they didn’t have cause. and his brother? he had taken all of gabriel’s shining example and corrupted it into nothing more than pretense to get where he needed to go before he commanded rule over dominion that was not his; an abusive, negligent tyrant no better than the pharaoh of egypt who let his people die for the sake of his pride. and his wife, the woman he’d devoted life and happiness to, turned on him with a glock aimed at his chest.

a beacon of hope came on the morning of the third day when his partner at the firm kept calling. when you’re a good lawyer, you make enemies with dangerous people. when you’re a great lawyer, you guarantee those enemies become lethal. gabe was a great lawyer. radio silence for two days was uncharacteristic for gabe, everyone had reason to worry. although the same could not be said for isaiah. danielle grew steadily more and more frustrated by the noise and gabriel told her to let him talk down the situation to keep the firm from calling again. she steadily agreed. it was the first time gabe had ever thanked god for making his wife an alcoholic.

for a long time, he and his partner established code words as a safety measure. different words had different meanings, the most rehearsed of which was BOOTH. as in john wilkes booth. as in someone was holding a gun to his head. so when gabriel said: “hey, i had to rush out of town for a family emergency, can you email me the details of the BOOTH case to look over when I get home?” danielle was none the wiser. but the partner knew to dial 911.

when the cops and ambulance showed up, everything went to shit. danielle panicked and shot the gun when they kicked in the door, frightening her into pulling the trigger. the bullet lodged in gabriel’s left shoulder and knocked him into the broken glass on the floor. realizing her mistake, she brought the gun to her head. the cops wrestled her down before she could pull the trigger for a second time.

once discharged from the hospital, gabriel drew up divorce papers, a restraining order, and a lawsuit. he got his divorce, he got the restraining order, and danielle was placed in prison.

gabriel left new york after that, electing to go back home to chicago. once back in the windy city, he looked for work as a private lawyer, one who wouldn’t join a firm until he could scope out which councilors he chose to have on his side and those he chose to fight.

working for the vasile family wasn’t planned, but he seemed to find his niche there. he’d seen plenty of violence in the world, he knew how ugly it could be, and he knew that even those closest to him were monsters in disguise. it was his time to chose to have on his side and who to fight for, rather than against.

seeing katerina again hadn’t been his motive, but he couldn’t say that those eyes wouldn’t bring just a little bit of light to his darkest days.

#&&. gabriel || intro #&&. gabriel || visage #&&. gabriel || isms #everyone blame leia for this #hermione too #crimson.intro #&&. trigger warning #alcoholism tw #miscarriage tw #abortion tw #divorce tw #gun violence tw #i think i tagged everything

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