At Tavss, Fletcher, Maiden & Reed, Richard Tavss and his daughter, Besianne Tavss Maiden, specialize in different areas of law, yet they communicate and share ideas multiple times each day. Both attorneys look forward to the next generation joining the firm, when Zach Maiden graduates law school this spring.
Richard J. Tavss
Tavss, Fletcher, Maiden & Reed, P.C.
Area of practice: Personal Injury and Civil Litigation
Jewish News: How do you collaborate professionally with Besianne?
Richard Tavss: I pick up the phone and talk to her or walk down the hall to her office about 20 times a day.
JN: Do you find generational differences in practicing law? If so, what are they?
RT: The law is constantly changing and evolving, as well as technology, which impacts the general practice of law. Our generational gap is maybe less than it is with others because we have been working together for over 30 years. That gives us both the “old” and “new” perspective.
JN: What have you learned from practicing with Besianne?
RT: She cares deeply about each of her clients. That resonates with me and reminds me every day that we are the most important call/visit a client has that day, even though we see/talk to many people.
JN: What advice would you give to other parents/children who work together?
RT: It enriches the relationship between father and daughter, and if given the opportunity, I would recommend you do it; it makes every day at work better.
JN: Additional comments?
RT: Having my daughter with me and seeing her thrive has made my career that much more rewarding. Coming soon: The next generation will join Tavss, Fletcher, Maiden & Reed, P.C. One of my grandsons will be graduating from Tulane Law in May 2025 and plans to join me and his mother. We are all beyond excited.
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Besianne Tavss Maiden
Tavss, Fletcher, Maiden & Reed, P.C.
Area of practice: Family Law
Jewish News: How do you collaborate professionally with your father?
Besianne Tavss Maiden: We discuss specific cases; we bounce ideas off one another; we share our successes by telling each other the “blow-by-blow” details.
JN: Do you find generational differences in practicing law? If so, what are they?
BTM: My dad is from a generation where lawyers trusted one another, and many negotiations were solidified with a handshake. Now, we, of course, put everything in writing. When he has information for a client, he picks up the phone, rather than sending an email or text. Because I learned from him, I do the same, but younger lawyers are quick to respond with an email, which can be less effective.
JN: What have you learned from practicing with your dad?
BTM: My dad taught me to be kind, to appreciate and thank our clients, our office staff, judges, court clerks, everyone with whom we come into contact. He smiles all of the time and checks on everyone in the office daily; he is a “bright light” to all who have the honor to work with him. I strive to be like him in that way.
JN: What advice would you give to other parents/children who work together?
BTM: If given the opportunity, take it. Take time to have lunch together and enjoy the shared experience and the time together. My career would not have been nearly as successful or rewarding (and often fun) without his guidance, support and friendship.
JN: Additional comments?
BTM: My oldest son, Zach, will be joining our firm this summer after he graduates from Tulane Law. That will make three generations practicing law together. I think that is pretty special.