42 CORPORATE VISION / February 2017 , David A. Burkhalter II of the American lawfirmBurkhalter, Rayson, & Associates, P.C., talks to Corporate Visionmagazine following his firmbeing awarded the prestigious title of American Law Firmof the Year. David tells us a little more about the firm, its work and its clientele. Power to the People “Our law firm prides itself on representing only the hardworking people of this country, and not corporations or insurance companies,” he begins. “Whether they are the top executives, like the CEO or VP, blue collar, white collar, or a doctor, we represent people from all walks of life. We treat our clients like family because each case is truly personal to us.” “With over 70 years of combined legal experience, we represent individuals in nearly every type of employment matter, including wrongful termination, retaliation, contractual disputes, severance negotiation, discrimination, etc. This also includes those brave whistleblowers who choose to speak out against government fraud, in cases such as government contract and procurement fraud, healthcare Medicare/Medicaid fraud, illegal kickbacks, SEC securities fraud, and IRS tax fraud. We also have an extensive personal injury and wrongful death practice, and we represent a wide range of seriously injured persons and their family members.” The practice of law and the business of running a law practice are two very different aspects, and David embellishes. “The business of running a law practice requires us to always be up-to-date on the most recent innovations and technologies that will help make our business more efficient and effective, and in turn, allow us to offer the best possible service to each individual client.” There are several key attributes which David believes sets Burkhalter, Rayson & Associates apart from the competition. “The most obvious is that other law firms do not have the wonderful staff that this law firm does,” he laughs. “Also, we welcome the opportunity to fight for the people of this country, and find justice for those who have truly been wronged or injured. That is what this law firm is all about. We make a point to understand our clients and empathize with their problems. We embrace the fact that we are a family of trial lawyers, and we apply that type of mindset to each client. Every case is personal. Every client is important. Finally, it is our ability to creatively find the right solution to every problem, no matter how small or complex.” First and foremost, the client’s best interest is always the firm’s number one priority. “Making this the top priority in every case results in the type of client satisfaction that is critical to obtaining the results that matter, as well as maintaining our reputation,” says David. “Nearly all of our cases are taken on a contingency fee basis, which means the client does not owe any attorney fee if there is no monetary recovery. Therefore, when our client is satisfied with the results, then we are also satisfied. We have a personal stake invested into every single case just like our clients. We stand or fall together.” David explains how the firm deals with maintaining neutrality, confidentiality, and fairness in each case, and what this all means when representing others. “With every case, there are a number of factors that you must always take into consideration. As an attorney, we are obligated to maintain the utmost confidentiality with every client and potential client. As a counselor, we advise our client on every conceivable option and outcome. As an advocate, we zealously fight to obtain justice for our client. And finally, as a human, it can be very difficult to remain neutral when you empathize with a client who you know was truly wronged. However, in order to ensure the best possible outcome, we have to objectively view cases from all sides, as we strive to put all necessary time, energy, and talent into each case.” “We embrace all challenges at this firm. The ability to overcome challenges and adversity is certainly a measure of success. With that being said, you cannot always predict the future. You must learn from your mistakes. You must surround yourself with good people who share the same vision and believe in the process, and importantly, are the type of people who will tell you what you need to hear, rather than what you want to hear.” Industry in America is ever- evolving and David comments on how the legal field is no different and how the firm works hard to stay ahead of the game. “Laws and regulations change and/ or are created every day. We stay abreast of the most recent legal innovations in many ways but, as a boutique law firm, we also have to be practical in making cost-effective decisions. This firm focuses on innovative approaches to client acquisition, client satisfaction, and successful representation.” K Company: Burkhalter, Rayson & Associates, P.C. Name: David A. Burkhalter II Email:
[email protected] Web Address: www.burkhalterrayson.com Address: 111 South Central Street, Knoxville, TN 37902 Telephone: (865) 524-4974 1701CV56