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June 24, 2011

Meet Matt Austin, ColumbusLawyerFinder.com

Matt Austin (view ColumbusLawyerFinder.com profile)

Why did you decide to become an attorney?

I love teamwork, as well as educating and helping to solve problems. I understand that most clients only need my services when they have a problem I can help resolve. After educating them how the law applies to their unique facts, my clients and I begin to methodically resolve their problem as a team.

What experiences (work and personal) help you to be a better attorney?
There is no substitute for actual, hands-on experience. From a personal perspective, I have been an employee, so I know how employees think and the issues they deal with. I am also a business owner, so I know the challenges associated with staying legally compliant, as well as weighing pros and cons before making business decisions.

What made you choose your primary area of law?
I chose to specialize in labor and employment matters because very few areas of the law change as frequently as those change. A new law is introduced in Congress or Ohio's legislature, or made by a judge in state or federal court almost daily. I enjoy watching the law evolve and adapting it to changing workforces.

What makes your law firm unique?
Law firms typically excel at one of two things: legal knowledge or affordable rates. I strive to successfully merge those two concepts. As the owner of a boutique law firm, I represent employers in the niche areas of labor, employment, OSHA, and immigration law. Since I am an entrepreneur at heart, I am thrilled to serve other businesses and aid in their success. I work with clients to develop the most cost-effective legal strategies that are tailor-made to each client’s specific needs – and those strategies can change as often as that client's circumstances change. While there are times when hourly billing is the best solution, I also utilize flat fees, blended fees, retainers, and contingency fees.

Describe your ideal client.
Ideally, a proactive client. Companies who seek my advice before taking irreparable action and employees who have their documents in order with a summary of their facts before the initial consultation have a better experience than those who act without consulting me or show up for their initial consultation with only a story to tell.

Describe your personal interests and hobbies.
I seem to spend most of my free time doing yard work or chores around the house (neither of which is an interest or a hobby) instead of golfing or biking. I have turned my wife into an OSU football and basketball fan. In turn, she has taught me what toile is and how to have a proper high tea.

Describe your charitable activities.
I donate my time and resources to many charities. Most recently I have been involved with charities representing the vision impaired, mentally and developmentally disabled, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, animal shelters, and public programming for the City of Upper Arlington.

Visit www.ColumbusLawyerFinder.com for more information about Matt Austin and other attorneys. For information on how you can be featured in ColumbusLawyerFinder.com, contact Paula Coulter at 614/340.2029 or paula@cbalaw.org.