Press Release On Susan Martyn's New Book

June 21, 2006 Wednesday 2:33 PM GMT

LexisNexis Publishes Consumer Guidebook on Working with Lawyers; Text Provides Information on Managing Attorney/Client Expectations

DATELINE: DAYTON, Ohio June 21, 2006
Studies show that 70 percent of Americans will hire a lawyer in their lifetime and of those who do, two out of every five find the process intimidating. Why is hiring a lawyer so much more uncomfortable than hiring a plumber or a doctor? To help consumers navigate the often unclear relationship between lawyer and client, LexisNexis has published its first consumer book, "Your Lawyer: A User's Guide."

The book, available in bookstores and online, provides consumers with the requisite information on the ethical obligations of lawyers and also lends insight on what not to expect and what happens if something goes wrong.

Written by lawyers Lawrence J. Fox of Drinker Biddle & Reath in Philadelphia and Susan Martyn, professor of law at University of Toledo College of Law in Ohio, the authors shed light on a topic that is often overlooked - what duties lawyers owe their clients."

A truly meaningful level of communication between lawyers and clients is rare," said Lawrence Fox, a 35-year veteran lawyer. "While many consumers know something of what to expect from their lawyers, in this busy world, it isn't often that complete and comfortable communication is achieved. 'Your Lawyer' offers an accessible bridge between counselors and clients, leveling the playing field and improving relationships."

Inside the book is a straightforward narrative with humorous illustrations in an easy-to-read, Q&A style. It includes definitions, sidebars, suggested questions, and more. Designed not only to be educational, the guidebook is intended to uphold and promote a higher level of ethical conduct among lawyers."

A lawyer owes four fiduciary duties to every client -- what we call the four C's: communication, competence, confidentiality and conflict resolution," said Susan Martyn, co-author of the book, who has worked in the legal profession and academia for nearly 30 years. "This book should be regarded as a tool to promote client-lawyer collaboration."

The soft-cover book is priced at $12 and is available at bookstores nationwide and online, including Amazon.com and via the LexisNexis bookstore at www.lexisnexis.com/yourlawyer/.