Tony began his practice in Mississippi as an associate with the Austin Law firm after practicing for one year in Tennessee. With the Austin Law firm he primarily handled matters of civil litigation and domestic relations. In 2001 he co-founded the firm Chamberlin-Nowak, P.C., a general practice firm that also served as counsel to the DeSoto County Board of Supervisors. In 2006 Tony merged his firm with Smith, Phillips, Mitchell and Scott to create Smith, Phillips, Mitchell, Scott and Nowak. Since 2005 Tony has focused his practice on government law. In addition to serving as the Board Attorney for the DeSoto County Board of Supervisors, the DeSoto County Recreational District and the DeSoto County Sheriff's Department. He also formerly represented the DeSoto County Convention and Visitors Bureau (d/b/a Landers Center). Tony also proudly serves as the Municipal Court Judge for the City of Hernando. He has been in that position since 2001. Lawyer.com Member Questionnaire What should clients look for in a lawyer? There are several things clients should look for when hiring a lawyer. First, clients should hire a lawyer who has the knowledge and ability necessary to handle your case successfully. It is important to find a lawyer who has a proven track record of handling cases like the client’s and who has the staff and resources necessary to handle your case at the highest level. It is also important that clients hire a lawyer who they are comfortable with and will be available to answer any questions they may have about their case and who will keep them updated on the case as it progresses. How important is local knowledge to the success of your cases? Local knowledge is extremely important and provides great assistance in the advancement of your case. Many times, different court jurisdictions implement different procedures and local rules as to how matters are handled. Different judges have different ways of conducting their courtroom. Having an attorney to represent you that understands these procedures and requirements and who has strong ties in the community provides strength to your case. Local knowledge is about relationships and engaging with people. As an attorney I have always been committed to helping others and in so doing understand that local knowledge plays a vital role in my representation. What information can you provide in a free phone consultation? Free phone consultations are a great way for prospective clients to get a feel for their legal rights and also get a feel for the attorney. The more information the client and attorney have at their disposal, the better the advice that can be provided. It is important for persons to have the chance to “interview” the lawyer, and a phone consultation is a great first opportunity. Further, an initial assessment as to rights and remedies given the particular facts of a case can be provided. Prospective clients can use the opportunity to ask the lawyer if they have handled that particular type of case before?; how many other similar cases have they handled?; Case results?; Does the lawyer represent himself or herself with a demeanor you think would benefit you?; Do they have the time and resources to fully dedicate themselves to the matter? The more a person puts into a free phone consultation the better prepared both the client and attorney will be to decide how to will move forward. What differentiates you from other lawyers in your community? My firm has had a presence in the community for 30 years. Many of the attorneys are “local” and grew up in the area. There is great diversity in practice areas allowing representation of clients across a broad spectrum of matters. We like to emphasize the personal touch with the representation. While our firm has had success on a nationwide basis, we believe we still offer the hometown feel and commitment to all clients.