Many criminal lawyers are grumbling and broke. I stay away from those negative people.
On the other hand, take Roy Black. He just bought a mansion on Star Island for $7.1 million cash. The house sits on a 1.11 acres. It might need some updating, but who cares? A bargain. He paid about $700/sq ft. The original listing price was $19.8 million.
Yes, he’s been practicing for 40 years. I know lawyers practicing 40 years that don’t make that kind of money. So, what’s different?
1. Passion – that’s what drives him. If you don’t like practicing criminal law, go do something else.
2. He told FACDL members one time at a conference called “The Practice” that they should put down their law books and pick up marketing books. He has read and mastered the elements of the psychology of persuasion. His marketing, it seems to me, consists in part – taking high-profile cases, being actively involved in democratic politics and doing a great job for the clients.
3. The media has helped him tremendously. I don’t mean to diminish his skills as a lawyer. But when you are on t.v., the phone starts a ringin’.
4. He’s been at it consistently for a long time.
Real criminal lawyers who passionately try cases (especially high-profile ones) who also learn and take action from tips in marketing books can make real money.