Afleveringen
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," trial lawyer Craig Murphy of Murphy & Murphy Law Offices shares his inspiring journey to becoming a successful trial lawyer despite having no initial connections to the legal world.
He recounts how his determination and strong underdog mentality set him on a path to law. Initially practicing family law and then insurance defense (working as the Major Case Unit Trial Attorney for the State of Nevada for the Travelers Insurance), Craig’s diverse experience on the opposing end gave him a comprehensive understanding on how to build a personal injury case. Craig recalls two of his most memorable cases, including a slip and fall case against Walmart, where meticulous, persistent documentation earned him the nickname "Mr. Supplement." His other case involves a chef whose serious injuries from an accident nearly left him homeless, and Craig shares how he leveraged a chance incident on the defensive to win a substantial settlement for his client.
In his “Closing Argument,” Craig reflects on his firm’s motto: “Winning is no accident.” He believes that the key to success is putting in hard work and being willing to take time to build a solid foundation for a case, practicing relentless dedication to the client’s cause.
Key Takeaways
Having an underdog mentality and putting in the necessary practice can help overcome limitations and achieve success.Making the decision to pursue a career in law and taking the necessary steps to achieve that goal is important to avoid future regrets.Working on the defense side can provide valuable insights and knowledge about the personal injury practice.Building a strong foundation for each case and being willing to fight and put in the necessary hard work for the underdog is crucial in personal injury law.Winning is no accident: Winning cases requires dedication, hard work, and a determination to do what is necessary.
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," trial attorney Aparna Pujar of Napoli Shkolnik shares her inspiring journey from studying law in India to becoming a trial lawyer in the United States.
Motivated by her love for performing and inspired by legal dramas and Bollywood films, Aparna had a dream of being a trial lawyer. Starting her career in commercial litigation and arbitration in India, Aparna never experienced a trial due to the slower legal process. In 2020, she moved to the U.S. and attended Columbia Law School. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, she landed a job with Joe Napoli’s team, a renowned personal injury trial firm. Aparna discusses the cultural and procedural differences between practicing law in India and the U.S., including her quick transition into courtroom appearances. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and approachability, traits that have helped her connect with personal injury clients more effectively.
In her “Closing Argument,” Aparna highlights the importance of courage and persistence in overcoming adversity. Despite numerous challenges, including struggling to find a job due to visa issues, her determination and family support saw her through.
Key Takeaways
Overcoming cultural and procedural differences in a new legal system requires adaptability and a willingness to embrace change.Empathy and approachability are valuable traits for lawyers, particularly in personal injury law, where client relationships are crucial.Initial setbacks and unexpected outcomes in trials can provide important lessons and shape future legal strategies.Persistence and determination are essential in the face of adversity.
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," we hear the compelling story of trial lawyer Adam Shapiro, founder of Shapiro Law Firm.
Starting in criminal defense but repelled by the immorality present in the field, Adam switched to insurance litigation. However, he eventually found his calling in fighting for the plaintiff’s side instead, making a “leap of faith” into personal injury law.
Listen as he recounts one of his most significant cases involving a girl who was severely injured at an intersection in Jackson Heights, New York, which resulted in the installation of traffic lights and an increase in public safety in the area. With this being just one example, his genuine care for clients and his diligent efforts have led to several successes throughout his career. In his “Closing Argument,” Adam emphasizes the crucial role personal injury lawyers play in people's lives, acting as essential advocates during times of crisis. He stresses the importance of treating clients with the care and empathy they deserve, as if they were family members.
Key Takeaways
Working from a place of honesty, empathy, and humanity is key to understanding clients and maintaining long-term success and referrals.Successful litigation can lead to real-world changes and broader societal benefits that make an impact on public safety.Sustained success as a trial lawyer isn't immediate; it often involves extensive groundwork.Be prepared to work extremely hard, especially during career transitions.Selflessness and kindness are important traits that are often overlooked in personal injury lawCaring about clients beyond a financial perspective will take you a long way
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” trial lawyer David Klink of Klink Law shares his journey from a law firm assistant to a dedicated plaintiff’s lawyer, offering unique insights into the legal landscape and the importance of perseverance.
Initially exposed to personal injury law while aiding his father’s criminal defense practice, David’s career path shifted dramatically during the 2008 financial crisis, which drove him to study law in Las Vegas. David then gained significant litigation experience working at a small medical defense law firm, handling complex med malpractice and wrongful death cases. This foundation enabled him to transition to representing injured plaintiffs, a role he felt called to pursue.
David’s approach to law is marked by his willingness to take on unique, challenging cases other firms might reject. He shares memorable cases that shaped his practice, including defending a nurse in a board complaint and securing justice for a man assaulted by a security officer at a major retailer.
In his “Closing Argument,” David emphasizes the privilege of helping clients navigate the justice system and acting as an advocate for those who do not have a voice.
Chapters
1:12 – Why did you want to become a trial lawyer?
5:40 – A Case that Matters
9:14 – What makes you unique?
15:51 – Closing ArgumentKey Takeaways
Shifting career plans can lead to new opportunities.Gaining litigation experience in diverse areas can enhance one’s legal expertise.Persistence in the face of challenging cases ensures that clients receive the justice they deserve.Representing less fortunate clients highlights the social responsibility and vocation of being a trial lawyer.Maintaining high ethical standards and dedication to clients is crucial for long-term success and professional satisfaction.
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” we sit down with trial lawyer Geoff Meyerkord as he shares his inspiring journey of becoming a plaintiff's trial attorney.
From following in his father's footsteps to striking out on his own, Geoff offers invaluable insights into the world of personal injury law. He emphasizes the critical role of having a supportive spouse, the profound need for empathy, and the unique challenges and rewards of the profession. Geoff also recounts a particularly impactful wrongful death case and the importance of building genuine trust with clients. His “Closing Argument” discusses the fundamental role of accountability and responsibility within the civil justice system.
Having a great spouse is crucial for success as a trial lawyer.Empathy and the ability to stand in the shoes of clients are essential qualities for a trial lawyer.Being a plaintiff's trial attorney requires a high tolerance for risk.Building genuine trust with clients is crucial in the legal profession.The civil justice system provides accountability and the opportunity for righting wrongs.
Key Takeaways
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Show Notes
In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," Brian Chase from the firm Bisnar Chase shares his remarkable transition from a laid-back surfer to a passionate trial lawyer dedicated to tackling motor vehicle defect cases. Chase recounts his unexpected spark of interest in the law during a college debate on the renowned Baby Faye case, where his deep dive into research instilled a passion for legal challenges.
Chase reveals his unique focus on auto defect litigation, driven by witnessing the Ford Pinto cases of the '70s, where corporate negligence led to tragic consequences. His stories demonstrate the significant role trial lawyers play in advancing public safety through relentless litigation against industries prioritizing profit over people. A notable victory he shares involves a groundbreaking $25 million verdict for Jacqueline Romine, paralyzed in a seat back failure incident, which led to a landmark published opinion aiding future auto defect cases in California. He also gives listeners an inside view of the ongoing battle with emerging issues in electric and autonomous vehicles.
For his 'Closing Argument,' Brian shares a story about his client whose case and enabled him and his partner to elevate their firm to new heights. He reminds us that you have to keep hustling, no matter your age, and when you love what you do, there's nothing like it.
Key Takeaways
Passion for justice and making a positive impact is crucial in trial lawAuto manufacturers have a history of prioritizing profit over safety, leading to the need for litigation to enforce safety standards.Landmark cases can set precedents and improve safety regulations for future cases.The rise of electric vehicles and autonomous driving presents new challenges and opportunities for personal injury lawyers.Continuous learning, hard work, and dedication are essential for success in the legal profession.Advocacy and positive impact are central to a trial lawyer's role.Creativity and storytelling are valuable skills in connecting with juries and drafting briefs.Humility and a client-first approach are crucial for a successful legal career.Embrace setbacks as learning experiences to keep moving forward.
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” we are inspired by trial lawyer Michael Harris, from the firm Jordan Law. The son of a Bosnian immigrant, Michael’s family expected him go down the traditional paths of doctor, lawyer, or engineer but he originally pursued computer science before realizing his passion for law.
For “A Case that Matters,” Michael shares a story about Nicholas, an eighth-grade student who suffered a catastrophic injury during a PE class due to the reckless actions of his teacher, including navigating Colorado’s Governmental Immunity Act and successfully arguing that the teacher’s conduct was willful and wanton.
For his “Closing Argument”, Michael reflects on what sets him apart from his peers: a blend of humility, creativity, and a steadfast focus on the client. These qualities, he believes, are crucial in delivering justice and maintaining a balanced professional life.
Key Takeaways
The role of a trial lawyer is to advocate for the client and make a positive impact on their lives.Creativity and storytelling skills can be valuable assets for trial lawyers in drafting briefs, arguing in court, and connecting with juries.Trial lawyers should not take themselves too seriously and remember that their job is about serving the client, not personal ego.Experiencing losses and setbacks is a normal part of a trial lawyer’s career, and it is important to learn from these experiences and keep moving forward.
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” trial lawyer Brewster Rawls from the Rawls Law Group shares his journey from spending over three decades as a defense lawyer before switching to full-time plaintiff and how that experience sets him apart. He shares stories about the unique focus of his firm on FTCA and Veterans Medical Malpractice. Brewster emphasizes the importance of trial experience and the ability to go to court for achieving justice. He also shares a story of winning a case without experts and discusses the challenges faced by military members in seeking recourse for malpractice.
Defense experience gives trial lawyers an edge in knowing what can be defended and what can't be defended.Trial experience is invaluable in understanding what works and what doesn't work in presenting a case to a court or jury.The ability to go to court and have recourse is essential for achieving justice, especially in cases involving military malpractice.The legal profession needs more trial lawyers who can go to court and try cases effectively.
Key Takeaways
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In the latest episode of "Celebrating Justice," trial lawyer Cynthia Attard from the firm Ikhilov & Associates shares her journey from being a corporate attorney to a police officer, and then returning to the legal field as a personal injury trial lawyer. Cynthia recounts how her experience as a police officer has uniquely equipped her for her current role, providing her with an edge over her peers due to her firsthand understanding of law enforcement procedures and courtroom dynamics.
Cynthia also discusses impactful cases from her career, including one particularly challenging personal injury case involving a botched pedicure. She also shares a memorable police story, touching on the emotional and professional challenges of transitioning between careers. For her “Closing Argument,” Cynthia shares insights on picking juries and connecting authentically with clients and jurors.
Key Takeaways:
1. Diverse Experiences Enhance Legal Practice: Cynthia's background as a police officer provides her with unique insights and skills that set her apart in the field of personal injury law.
2. Importance of Genuine Client Connection: Building a rapport with clients and jurors is crucial. Cynthia emphasizes the significance of face-to-face interactions and treating clients with empathy and respect.
3. Challenge and Opportunity in Every Case: Every case, no matter how small or seemingly straightforward, has its unique challenges and potential to impact clients' lives significantly.
4. Transitioning Skills Across Careers: Skills and experiences from seemingly unrelated careers can be an asset in law, as demonstrated by Cynthia’s transition from police work to legal practice.
5. Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom: Cynthia’s stories illustrate the broader impact of personal injury law in holding corporations accountable and advocating for individuals who have been wronged.
6. Persistence in the Face of Doubt: Cynthia’s advice to new attorneys highlights the importance of perseverance and confidence, teaching that even unlikely cases can have successful outcomes with dedicated effort.
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” we explore the remarkable journey of trial lawyer Michael Stephenson. Michael shares his unconventional path to becoming a lawyer which didn’t start until his final year of college. Although he had no legal influence growing up and was studying music theory in college, Michael decided to take a pre-law course and discovered his passion for law. His interest and natural talent for law helped him excel in law school and eventually fueled his desire to work in the courtroom.
Michael shares how his experiences in the criminal defense clinic and winning “most outstanding trial advocate” while competing on the mock trial team pivoted his focus from pursing environmental law to becoming a trial lawyer. He recounts impactful cases from his time as a public defender and how connecting with his clients and winning his first case, all while still in law school at the University of Oregon, solidified his commitment to personal injury law and emphasizing public service as a crucial aspect of his career.
For his “Closing Argument,” Michael discusses the often-misunderstood role of personal injury lawyers, the profound impact that civil litigation can have in holding corporations accountable, and how powerful it can be for doing good in the world.
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," Brian Glass shares his journey of becoming a trial lawyer and the experiences that led him to ultimately achieve his goal of working with his father, Ben Glass, at Ben Glass Law. Brian talks about his path from being an uncertain law school graduate during the economic downturn of 2008 to working in different firms and eventually finding his passion for trial law. He discusses the challenges and rewards of representing clients and shares tips on the importance of delivering excellent customer service that leaves a lasting impression. Brian also recounts a memorable case involving a drunk driving accident and the trial that led to his record-setting verdict in Virginia. The conversation covers various topics, including the outcomes of legal cases, and for his "Closing Argument," Brian emphasizes the importance of what he calls "Living Life by Design."
Key Takeaways
The influence of family, life and priorities can play a significant role in career choices.Finding one's passion and area of expertise is crucial for success in any profession.Delivering excellent customer service is essential for building trust and loyalty with clients.Lawyers should be intentional about their careers and lives, considering what they truly want."Living Life by Design" means creating options for oneself and making choices that align with personal values and goals.
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” Steven Young shares the stories of his family’s activist past in the mining industry and during the Depression that inspired him to fight the biggest battles and start his journey into trial law.
Encouraged by his mother to pursue his passion in law, Steven has gone on to build a successful career emphasizing personalized connection with juries using psychological methods of engagement. Listen as he shares the story of a case he embarked on to help an immigrant family gain justice for damages incurred, his first ever trial that made a mark on him and motivates him to this day.
Steven has created a niche practice specializing in “last minute trials.” His trial experience covers all areas of law from class actions to a first in the nation trial against a hedge fund over municipal bond arbitrage derivatives to bad faith to business disputes to personal injury. He has spent years studying the art of persuasion, including storytelling, deep metaphor, painting word pictures, neurolinguistics and behavioral and relationship psychology, to find the most compelling ways to “stage” the drama that is trial.
Key Takeaways
It doesn’t always matter how personally capable the individual is, the cause for which they are fighting holds much more weight in the outcome of their movement. Make an effort to engage the jury personally and psychologically to improve their engagement with the case.Ensure you connect with your client and really empathize with and believe their story. This connection guarantees you can touch the jurors and present an extremely compelling case that can change someone’s life for the better.
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In this episode of “Celebrating Justice,” Jeffery Campiche shares his journey of becoming a trial lawyer and his focus on maritime, civil rights and medical negligence cases.
For more than four decades, Jeffery has successfully represented people severely injured on maritime vessels, in motor vehicle accidents, by unsafe or defective products, and negligent medical providers. Starting out his busy career as a prosecutor-coroner in Ilwaco, Washington, Jeffery continually utilized the invaluable guidance from his doctor father and fellow trial lawyer George Kargianas that encouraged him to center his client’s needs and prioritize politeness in court interactions.
Listen as Jeffery details thrilling, heart wrenching cases of racial prejudice and corporate negligence, from police shootings to boatman tragedies, and how he approached affected families with the utmost compassion and passion for uncovering the truth and restoring justice, including the famous case of Tommy Le, a young man who was shot and killed by Seattle sheriff’s deputies.
Remember your client’s lawful rights, especially when approaching cases involving marginalized groups. Ensure that every client receives equal, lawful treatment in the investigative and trial processes, to the best of your ability.Never leave a stone unturned. Examine every suspicious statement or claim in search for the truth.Approach every examination and questioning with politeness. Always be respectful and civil with the opposing counsel to ensure a fair, successful trial. Put the client first and make them feel cared for.
Key Takeaways
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," we sit down with trial lawyer Sylvia V. Gonzalez, who shares her inspiring journey from considering a career in education to making significant strides in personal injury law. Sylvia discusses her initial aspirations after graduating from the University of Santa Barbara, pivotal moments of career realization, and the experiences that shaped her specialized focus. Her story provides an in-depth look at navigating courtroom challenges and experiencing the unexpected twists that come with jury deliberations.
For her "Closing Argument," Sylvia shares how listening and being true to yourself is the most important thing when following your passion and dreams.
Key Takeaways
Understanding Jury Dynamics: Sylvia shares a compelling courtroom anecdote underscoring the importance of ensuring accurate jury counts and how a seemingly definitive trial outcome can dramatically change, revealing the jurors' deep sense of duty.Overcoming Societal Expectations: Sylvia’s narrative is a testament to defying external doubts and societal expectations, encouraging lawyers and individuals to pursue their true passions despite discouragement from others.Empathy and Language Advantage: Sylvia highlights how being bilingual sets her apart in personal injury law, allowing her to directly connect with Spanish-speaking clients, enhancing trust and communication.Breaking Stereotypes: Her approachable nature challenges the typical media portrayal of lawyers, reinforcing the value of charisma and openness in legal practice.
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," Alyce Wittenstein, senior partner at Wittenstein and Wittenstein, a premier New York City personal injury firm, shares stories about her background in film production, her journey to becoming a trial lawyer, and the history of her firm. Alyce emphasizes the importance of treating clients with respect and meeting their needs and shares a memorable case involving a young woman injured in a rollover van accident. For her "Closing Argument," Alyce highlights the significance of contingency fees in providing access to justice.
Treating clients with respect and meeting their needs is crucial.Contingency fees play a vital role in providing access to justice for individuals who cannot afford legal representation.Personal injury law allows lawyers to help regular people and make a positive impact on their lives.Expanding access to legal services, particularly in divorce cases, can help protect the rights of individuals with limited financial resources.
Key Takeaways
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From a complicated childhood dealing with parental substance addiction and peer engagement in serious crime, to theater in college and even the Marine Corps, D.L. Rencher has lived through many diverse experiences on his path to trial law. The one common thread through his entire life has been his commitment and fervent interest in social justice. Driven by this passion and his independent persistence, D.L. put himself through law school and dedicated himself to tireless advocacy in his work.
Listen as D.L. shares stories of his personal and career journey and story about a key case with a verdict (regardless of the outcome) that strengthened his relentless resilience to bring justice for his clients.
For his “Closing Argument,” D.L. shares his on the three ways to “go through a wall.” He talks about the importance of of giving everything you’ve got, to leave nothing behind. “Bring it to the table, because this is where it matters. This is the Arena of Litigation."
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Growing up in the streets of New York with few life paths to choose from. As he puts it, he had three choices: join the military, become a trial lawyer, or become a criminal. So that left lawyer and Daniel Horowitz embarked towards a legal career, a full circle path that would eventually allow him to defend people much like those he grew up with. Daniel has been lead counsel in over 200 jury trials as well as thousands of arbitrations and contested evidentiary hearings. As a legal commentator, Daniel Horowitz has appeared on CNN, MSNBC, Fox News and all major television networks.
Listen as he discusses his motivation to become a trial lawyer and the unique elements that set him apart from other attorneys. He highlights the impactful Ailee Jong case and the positive changes it brought to a substandard institution. Daniel also talks about his involvement with Vice President Kamala Harris and his experiences with the prime minister of Ukraine. For his "Closing Argument," Daniel emphasizes the importance of balancing doing good and making money in the legal profession.
Key Takeaways
You are never going to be the best, and may not ever be one of the best. It is most valuable to direct your energy towards being serious, professional, and dedicated to serving the needs of your client. Learn how to balance the concept of using the law to create positive social change with family obligations and the need to make money. They go together and don’t contradict, despite what it may seem.All the most accomplished lawyers have great financial strength behind them. It is important to have financial resources to ensure a strong and secure fight for a verdict.
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In this episode of "Celebrating Justice," trial lawyer Steven B. Barrett shares his intriguing story of how he considered becoming a doctor and a rabbi before finding his true calling in law.
Steven talks about how his ability to connect with juries and clients alike, a skill honed from his thoughtful interactions in everyday life, makes a difference in the courtroom. His numerous stories provide invaluable insights into the nuances of trial work with advice for seasoned and new trial lawyers.For his “Closing Argument,” Steven touches on the concept of "lawyerly inertia," a term he uses to describe the tendency among legal professionals to rely too heavily on their accumulated knowledge and experience when assessing cases. He emphasizes the importance of breaking away from this inertia by advocating for lawyers to remain curious and vigilant, pushing the envelope by exploring additional depositions or questioning even when a case seems straightforward.
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Being interested in law from a young age, Erica Wilson describes her love for the gamesmanship and uniqueness of trial attorney work. Starting as a teacher while in law school, she fostered her legal passions by taking every opportunity to get into the courtroom and observe. Utilizing referrals and resources, she built her client portfolio and gathered enough business over the course of a summer break to propel her career as a trial lawyer.
Erica is committed to equity and justice and highlights key cases that stand out to her regarding racial discrimination and prejudice. Her passion for education and advocacy has positioned her as a respected figure in both the legal world and the community, where her numerous awards, accolades, and speaking engagements continue to inspire those she encounters. For her “Closing Argument,” Erica emphasizes the importance of measuring a win in the context of your client’s needs, rather than just a simple verdict, to ensure that their goals are prioritized and centralized in your work.
Takeaways
Don’t be afraid to fight. Take advantage of the gamesmanship of the courtroom to meet your client’s needs.Although much time has passed, a lot of prejudices still remain prevalent. It’s important to acknowledge this fact and to know that the right representation and legal approaches can help bring justice to fruition.Think about how to measure a ‘win.’ It’s not always straightforward, and sometimes has to do with what you overcome to get to a certain personal goal, rather than the end result alone.
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Christopher David Campione has always held a deep passion for helping others. His unmatched dedication to the pursuit of justice and aggressive defense of his clients sets him apart from his colleagues. Mr. Campione is an advocate of justice for all. His concentrated areas of focus include personal injury, business, and real estate law.
Listen as he shares his journey of becoming a trial lawyer and starting his own firm with just $4,000 in his pocket. He discusses the influence of his family connections to the law and his own reluctant path to becoming a trial lawyer. Christopher highlights the importance of treating clients well and building a reputation through word of mouth. For his “Closing Argument,” he addresses how consumers are fed up with some of the tactics of PI attorneys but touches on the much bigger picture that makes the work so important.
Takeaways
Building a successful law firm requires treating clients well and building a reputation through word of mouth.Significant cases can have a lasting impact on both the client and the attorney, providing a sense of justice and making a difference in people's lives.The decision to settle or go to trial depends on the specific circumstances of each case, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.There is so much more to what goes on in a Personal Injury trial than most people realize.
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