In an effort to introduce the fifth and newest judge in the Alcovy Judicial Circuit (Newton and Walton Counties) to the greater family law bar, I interviewed Ken Wynne for an upcoming issue of the newsletter of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Georgia. I asked him what he expected of those of us who practice family law when we appear in front of him that he does not necessarily expect of other lawyers. At first he said what I would’ve expected – that he expects all lawyers to be prepared. But, then he said something that I have turned over in my mind many times since the interview. Judge Wynne said he expects lawyers who practice family law to remember that many times there are collateral parties to a divorce – children – and that, while we have an obligation to represent our clients and their interests, we must always remember not to create collateral damage. These competing interests were driven home to me recently when meeting with a potential client. She asked, “How mean are you?” While I was able to deflect the question and answer it by telling her I am always very protective of my client’s interests, the question stung a little because it raises the problem of zealous representation of a client while remembering Judge Wynne’s admonition.
So, thank you, Judge Wynne, for reminding me to take care to tread lightly when I can, in the interests of collateral parties.
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