Risk Management.

• Position: Brief Article

"How to Survive a Lawsuit: Practical Advice from a Pro"

Davison, Elizabeth B.

Planning, November 2000, pp. 10-13.

This article presents advice for dealing with internal and external lawsuits. The author begins with three tips to avoid lawsuits. The first is to become familiar with the law, regulations, and procedures, and recognize vulnerable and controversial situations. The second tip is to focus on details in every document and procedure. In addition, staff members with a conflict of interest, or the appearance of one, should be reassigned. A third tip is to listen carefully to people who disagree with you and understand their point of view. If a lawsuit cannot be avoided, the author states, first of all, that it is important to keep a long-term view and not let the lawsuit overwhelm your department's vision. It is also important to know when to compromise. Second, the author recommends keeping lawyers well...