Most Americans are keenly aware of the contributions of Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) the 16th President of the United States. They are aware that under his leadership the Civil War was fought, brought to an end, and the Union saved. They know that Abraham Lincoln was the architect of the Great Emancipation that freed the slaves. Most are aware and can quote some of the Gettysburg Address, arguably Lincoln's most famous speech and one that has stood the test of time. Many, however, do not realize that Abraham Lincoln was one of the most successful lawyers of his day.
Lessons from Lincoln
King of Torts
On December 23, 2015, Joseph Jamail, considered one of the finest plaintiffs' lawyers to ever practice, passed away in Houston, Texas. Jamail was known as the "King of Torts'', a title he earned in 1984, when he represented Pennzoil and won the largest verdict in the history of the United States in the case of Pennzoil v. Texaco. Pennzoil had entered into negotiations to purchase Getty Oil when, according to Pennzoil, Texaco interfered with the transaction and acquired Getty. The jury awarded Pennzoil 10.5 billion dollars which was the largest verdict in