In this week’s edition of How Lawyers Work, we hear from Ben Smith. Ben has a Trusts and Estates practice in the Berkshire Hills of Western Massachusetts but often finds himself involved in related litigation, real estate, and business matters. “When clients need you, they need you.”
You can follow Ben on LinkedIn.
What apps or tools are essential to your daily workflow?
Outlook, Quickbooks, Skype, Grasshopper, iPhone, Napster (sometimes I got a fever for more cowbell!). I also love my Bluetooth Plantronics Savi Headset—I can speak wirelessly through phone, computer, and cellphone with one cordless headset. Finally, I bought a great standing desk on Craigslist…
What does your workspace look like?
Click to view slideshow.I have a cool office suite in a 1881 building, 1 mile from my house. It has very high ceilings, nice to look at, but changing light bulbs is a pain. The Malaysian Restaurant on the ground floor has good Pa Nang Curry.
How do you keep track of your calendars and deadlines?
All Outlook—I know, its only Microsoft, but I like it, like it, yes I do.
What is your coffee service setup?
Massachusetts is Dunkin’ country, so we have their K-Cups. I also use an Aeropress at the office, as well as a Chemex at home. I am also a home roaster (check out www.sweetmarias.com) (look for Acatenango from Guatemala).
What is one thing that you listen to, read, or watch that everyone should?
Email blasts from The New Yorker—such good writing. Politics, culture, and humor in one daily package.
What is your favorite local place to network or work solo?
I like picnic tables. Sometimes alone. Sometimes social.
What are three things you do without fail every day?
Read about Russia collusion (hopefully not too much longer), sing out loud (often while washing dishes), and plan a future trip.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick—Berkshire neighbor and nice guy.
How Lawyers Work: Ben Smith, Walking the Tightrope Between Specialty and Versatility was originally published on Lawyerist.com.
source https://lawyerist.com/how-lawyers-work-ben-smith/
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