In this episode of the Non‑Stuffy Attorneys Podcast, we’re joined by Jay Ruane, a Connecticut-based criminal defense attorney with decades of experience in high-stakes cases.Jay shares what drew him to criminal defense, the real human cost of wrongful convictions, and how innocent people can lose decades of their lives due to systemic failures. We also dive into how law firms actually grow, covering marketing spend, referrals, networking, intake systems, follow-up, CRM strategy, and why most attorneys hate sales (but still need it).The conversation wraps with practical insights on DUI stops, client decision-making, firm culture, employee investment, and building a business that delivers above expectations for both clients and staff.

In this episode, we sit down with Manisha Patel. As the founder of her boutique family law and mediation practice in Greensboro, Manisha brings an approach to law that is transforming North Carolina’s family courts: collaborative law and mediation designed to reduce conflict and genuinely prioritize clients’ well-being.Manisha’s work goes beyond standard legal representation. She is recognized throughout North Carolina for helping families resolve separation, divorce, and custody issues with minimal stress. Her client-centered philosophy and community leadership, including serving as President of the Greensboro Bar Association and councilor for the North Carolina State Bar Council, not only make her the go-to expert in her region, but also a standout voice for positive change in legal circles.Manisha’s upcoming book, "End Your Marriage Peacefully," arrives next winter and offers fresh strategies for anyone facing a breakup.

In this new-year kickoff, we chat with Richelle Marting, founder of a fully remote, women-led healthcare law team specializing in reimbursement, denials appeals, contract review, and compliance for hospitals, practices, surgery centers, and ABA providers.

Inspired by pre-COVID holiday stress as a working mom, she left BigLaw, went solo in 2020, and grew organically to a nine-person virtual team, ditching billable hours for flat-fee/subscription models along the way.

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