TOP100TRIALLAWYERS
The National Trial Lawyers : Top 100 is an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from across the country who meet stringent qualifications as civil plaintiff and / or criminal defense trial lawyers . It is our mission to promote a unique and professional networking opportunity for trial lawyers , while developing progressive ideas to pursue justice for those injured by the negligence of others , to educate the public about the importance of access to courts that are free of bias and undue influence , and to protect the American right of trial by jury .
TOP100TRIALLAWYERS
— NTL MEMBERSHIP NEWS & NOTES —
The National Trial Lawyers : Top 100 is an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from across the country who meet stringent qualifications as civil plaintiff and / or criminal defense trial lawyers . It is our mission to promote a unique and professional networking opportunity for trial lawyers , while developing progressive ideas to pursue justice for those injured by the negligence of others , to educate the public about the importance of access to courts that are free of bias and undue influence , and to protect the American right of trial by jury .
DOUG BEAM Douglas R . Beam , P . A . • Melbourne , Florida
What was the first job you had ? Janitor at 15 years of age at an elementary school built by the Works Progress Administration ( WPA ) in my hometown of Gastonia , North Carolina . As a janitor , I had the opportunity to do everything from cleaning toilets and urinals to sweeping , mopping , priming , sealing , waxing and buffing solid wood floors to cutting grass to shoveling coal into the furnace so that students , teachers , librarians and everyone else would be nice and warm . One of the most rewarding and fun jobs I have ever had !
I attribute my success to : Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior . My wife of 41 years , Cathy , is my soulmate who has sacrificed to make my dreams come true . Being the child of Gilda and Hershal Beam , the first in their respective families to have college degrees , including graduate degrees , who served as public school educators , provided me with a solid moral and academic foundation . Other positive influences in life are my sisters , Cindy and Anne , other relatives and many , many friends .
8 x The Trial Lawyer
What is your guilty pleasure ? Going away on a trip with my wife to a location she has chosen which will include enjoying nature and seeing historical sites . Great food is always in the mix ! A cold glass of iced tea with lemon and a bowl of homemade ice cream are always welcome !
What do you like to do in your time off ? Spending time with Cathy , my wife , and our two sons , Riley and Nathan , our wonderful daughters-inlaw , Michele and Ellen , and our three granddaughters , Lucy , Madeline and Charlotte . Someone once said asked me what is the difference between an in-law and an outlaw ? I did not know . Answer : an outlaw is wanted . I have a great mother-in-law , Susan , and just lost a great father-in-law , Lester . I enjoy spending time with my in-laws and friends .
What ’ s your favorite hobby ? Photography , writing , hiking , basketball and tennis .
What keeps you awake at night ? Sleep can be a challenge for me . So much to consider ! I prefer to wear out , not rust out . Responsibility and accountability to my family , clients and employees are always on my mind . I do not lose sleep over our country — I have faith in our young people .
What newspaper do you generally read daily ? The tactile feel of a newspaper , magazines and books provides comfort to me , however , most of my reading is via digital news . The New York Times , The Wall Street Journal , USA Today , The Week , Forbes , CBS Sports , Sports Illustrated , Newsweek , Time , CNN , Fox , Harper ’ s Magazine , and The New Yorker are a few of my news sources .
What advice would you give a young attorney ? Keep your moral compass pointing in the right direction . Take care of your family . If you are happy at home , you will be the best lawyer you can be .
Prepare your cases ! Listen to your clients , they will win your cases . It is difficult to listen yourself into trouble . Work hard — you will have to work nights and weekends . Study the law . Be patient . Be kind . Be respectful . The money and professional accolades will come . Along the way , you will be making positive differences in the lives of clients , employees and others in your community , country and world .