I practice in three primary areas — commercial litigation, governmental law, and serving as a federal receiver.  The first two areas have been my primary practice areas for most of my career.  I have worked as a receiver for the past 2 1/2 years.  I enjoy all parts of my practice, which is challenging and ever-changing.

How has your practice evolved in the last few years; from your perspective, what’s in store for the next few years?

The primary changes I see relate to the use of electronic devices and e-data in almost every aspect of law.  I first experienced this in 1988-89, and there has been no let-up since then.  I think the challenge of the next few years is for lawyers to find a way to effectively control and manage the mountain of e-data that they receive on a regular basis, so that data doesn’t control them.

If you could offer one piece of advice for young lawyers, what would it be? 

Remember that you have a life outside the office, especially with your family.

What is the one technological device you could not function without daily?

My smartphone.

How has civility made a difference in your practice of law?

I have worked with lawyers across this state for over 35 years, as well as many lawyers from out of state.  I have always watched carefully to learn what I could from these lawyers.  One lesson is that, without fail, the most successful lawyers — in results, in the clients they represent, in rankings, and in their outside lives — are the most civil.  That tells much about the value of civility in our profession.

What do you do for fun?

Play golf, travel, and read.

Tim Bertschy is a Partner at Heyl Royster in their Chicago office. There, he serves as chair of the Commercial Litigation Practice and Governmental Practice Groups.

• Bio
• Twitter
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Latest Posts

2Civility

2Civility is the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism’s communication channel. “2” because we are fostering transformation. “Civility” because it’s the moral code that binds us together as a society, and as the legal profession, encouraging a productive exchange of perspectives and rejecting disrespect for individuals or classes of people. We advance the highest standards of conduct among lawyers to better serve clients and society.

@2Civility

Latest posts by 2Civility (see all)

• Lawyer Spotlight: Ebony Huddleston of The Law Office of Ebony R. Huddleston, P.C. - December 18, 2019
• #CivilityChat with ISBA President David Sosin - December 4, 2019
• #CivilityChat: How PILI is Expanding Accessible Justice in Illinois - November 21, 2019
• Lawyer Spotlight: Tamika R. Walker of DeRango & Cain, LLC - November 14, 2019
• Commissioner Spotlight: Cynthia Fountaine - October 29, 2019