That Used to Be …US (aka, A Clarion Call for Innovation by Tom Friedman)

Lawyers can innovate, and if you don’t believe me, ask Tom Friedman. His new book, “That Used To Be Us,” is a clarion call for more innovation from … US (pun intended). The book includes an interview with one of my favorite lawyers – and people – Jeff Lesk, the managing partner of Nixon Peabody’s Washington, DC, office. A recent Fast Company article shares this tidbit:

“If I have to make tough compensation choices between lawyers, a significant factor now for me is their ability to invent,” Nixon Peabody partner Jeff Lesk told Friedman, in his response to a question about which lawyers he was retaining at his law firm.

I know Jeff personally and he walks the walk. Years ago, Jeff saw ways to make affordable housing and community development into something other than a pro bono practice. His “Legally Green” initiative is a firm-wide success that makes an impact – and a profit. And it helps Nixon Peabody retain talented and committed lawyers in a field famous for burnout.

On Thursday, I will attend Tom Friedman’s reading and book signing in DC. Stay tuned for a report!