Blue Ocean Global Technology Interviews Vince Eisinger

Blue Ocean: Tell us about yourself and what influenced you to become a lawyer.

Vince: Different aspects of my upbringing greatly influenced my life. First, my parents were quite young when I was born. Witnessing their relentless hard work and rapid maturity as they balanced parenting, work, and education has been a foundational example for me. Their dedication and work ethic set a high bar that I continuously strive to meet.

Second, growing up as the oldest in a large family has been a significant part of my life. I was the eldest among six siblings, which eventually became eight (after my mom remarried). Unlike others who might have had cousins or other relatives as close companions, I had my siblings, whom I considered my best friends. I loved spending time with and taking care of them. Family has always meant a lot to me, and I am still close with my siblings.

Finally, when I was 11, after yet another argument with my sister, my father remarked that I’d “make a good lawyer someday.” At the time, I barely understood what being a lawyer entailed, prompting me to ask him questions to learn more. He explained a bit to me, and I caught hold of the idea. The more I delved into it, the more captivated I became. My interest solidified during high school when I interned with the Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office and took a business law course.

Upon entering college, my decision to pursue a major in business management was essentially an afterthought.  I just knew I needed a degree to apply to law school.  Although I did find that I had a genuine interest in management and thoroughly enjoyed my undergraduate studies.

That simple yet impactful statement from my father when I was 11 years old inadvertently charted the course of my life.

Blue Ocean: What does a typical day in your life look like?

Vince: My day usually begins around 6 a.m. I start by catching up on tasks on my computer before exercising in the gym at my house. By 8:30 or 9:00 a.m., I’m focused on work, primarily at home, unless I have scheduled appointments or court hearings elsewhere.

My tasks vary as my career progresses. At the moment, I’m increasingly delegating tasks and focusing on writing, primarily legal documents and emails. I enjoy logical and persuasive writing, particularly within the legal realm. I handle numerous phone calls with my clients and opposing counsel, discussing various legal issues.

For instance, today I am preparing for a hearing happening tomorrow, where I’ll argue in favor of several motions related to a single case. It’s important to anticipate questions, outline my arguments, and thoroughly understand the case’s nuances. I find court hearings enjoyable, especially when the judge actively engages. 

Beyond billable work, I also invest time in business development, which involves interviews, networking, and fostering relationships that may bear fruit in the future. This part of the job doesn’t have immediate payoffs but is essential for long-term professional growth.

I’m fortunate to have colleagues who hold me accountable and guide me in these aspects of being a lawyer. In less than two years in North Carolina, investing in relationship-building efforts has started to yield tangible benefits. Engaging with various boards and organizations, both within and outside legal circles, has not only been personally rewarding but has also created opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise have landed on my desk.

Blue Ocean: Are there any trends in your industry that excite you?

Vince: One exciting trend in my industry that stands out is the business-friendly growth in North Carolina. Having relocated from New York City, known for its established commercial court system, I’m enthusiastic about the potential I see here. North Carolina seems to be on the trajectory of becoming a hub for complex business disputes, akin to the landscape in New York. Being part of this early phase is particularly thrilling for me, giving me the opportunity to be involved at the outset.

Another noteworthy, albeit somewhat mundane, trend is the modernization of North Carolina’s state court filing system. It’s currently undergoing a real-time transformation. Wake County recently implemented electronic filing, and several other counties as well. Mecklenburg County is slated for a similar update at the start of the upcoming year. While this shift might not seem inherently thrilling, it’s a vital component of the evolving legal landscape in this State, particularly in commercial and business litigation.

Overall, being part of the evolution in North Carolina’s legal sphere, especially in commercial litigation, is truly exciting.

Blue Ocean: How have you differentiated yourself, and what underpins your success as an attorney?

Vince: I’ve tried to set myself apart in several ways. I am among the first attorneys at my firm to specialize in business litigation, particularly in governance disputes. While our firm has a long history of representing businesses, the traditional service offerings tended to cater to specific problems that clients brought forward. Many of my colleagues naturally evolved into being the go-to counsel for daily issues. I’m taking a reverse approach by aiming to be the comprehensive daily counsel, specializing in litigation but also being the point of contact for any business-related matters that arise. My goal is to position myself and the firm, Cranfill Sumner, as the solution for various business challenges.

Within the niche of business litigation, I focus on delivering high-quality legal representation. I take pride in my writing skills, effectively communicating my clients’ arguments and needs to courts and relevant parties. Additionally, I emphasize client service, which clients have noted as a significant differentiator. Prompt responsiveness is a priority for me—I aim to reply to communications within a few hours and never let it extend beyond 24 hours, ensuring clients feel heard and attended to. I have received positive feedback from clients for being quick to respond. This has led not only to continued appreciation but also to referrals. Being top-of-mind as a recommended attorney for businesses seeking legal support is a testament to the value I provide.

Blue Ocean: What is something unique you offer to your clients?

Vince: I possess a unique background that stems from my formative legal years in Manhattan. I graduated from law school in New York City and then began a career of working with two prominent law firms and clerking with two federal judges. The New York commercial litigation scene, particularly within major law firms, reflects an environment characterized by high standards in capability, intelligence, and service quality. My mentors there were among the brightest individuals I’ve encountered, handling high-profile cases that demanded top-notch quality in every facet of the work.

This experience instilled in me a commitment to excellence, where every legal submission needs to meet the highest standards in argumentation and client representation. North Carolina is likewise moving toward that caliber of legal work, and my background positions me well to contribute to this evolving legal environment.

Blue Ocean: What are your sources of inspiration?

Vince: Aside from my family, one of my significant sources of inspiration is observing legal professionals who have built exemplary careers, particularly certain partners at my firm. These lawyers have successfully built their reputations in such a way that clients specifically seek them out. Their dedication and the recognition they’ve earned inspire me greatly. I aspire to reach that milestone.

I also consider George Washington a hero. His character and decisions inspire me. One of his values that resonates with me is his humility, which is evident in his choice to step down from the presidency after two terms despite having the potential to remain in power indefinitely. This act of humility and commitment to service speaks volumes about his love for the country.

Another aspect of George Washington’s leadership that I find inspiring is his dedication during the Revolutionary War. He and others persisted without the certainty of success because they were fighting for their principles and the establishment of a new nation. This selfless commitment to a cause greater than themselves and the willingness to endure sacrifice deeply moves and motivates me.

Blue Ocean: What are your passions and interests outside of your work?

Vince: Primarily, the focal point of my free time revolves around my family. Attending my kids’ events, engaging in activities with them, and being present for their milestones have been my top priority since becoming a father. Family time has undoubtedly become the cornerstone of my life.

Sports also play a significant role in my recreational life. Playing basketball and football and regular weightlifting sessions in my home gym are my main physical activities. I also enjoy watching football, particularly during the college season.

 Primarily, the focal point of my free time revolves around my family. Attending my kids’ events, engaging in activities with them, and being present for their milestones have been my top priority since becoming a father. Family time has undoubtedly become the cornerstone of my life.

Sports also play a significant role in my recreational life. Playing basketball and football and regular weightlifting sessions in my home gym are my main physical activities. I also enjoy watching football, particularly during the college season.

I am also passionate about the American founding era. Despite not being well-versed in historical details, that particular aspect of history has always intrigued me. Exploring the American founding, including the Constitutional Convention, and even writing my law school note on a constitutional amendment, has been a distinct passion of mine.

Blue Ocean: What is something you’re grateful for?

Vince: My family. As I mentioned, my family played an immense role in shaping who I am today. Presently, having a family of my own, including my wife and our four children, fills me with an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

Blue Ocean: What advice would you give to your younger self and others aspiring to pursue law?

Vince: One vital piece of advice is that there is a substantial amount of reading involved in practicing law. In college, I took a business law course where I was assigned to interview local lawyers. During these interviews, one lawyer highlighted that many entering the legal field fail to recognize the sheer volume of reading essential to the profession. This advice might not have necessarily altered my own trajectory significantly, but I think the amount of reading has caused a lot of early lawyers to leave the profession.

The portrayal of lawyers in media, through shows like “Law and Order,” often glamorizes the courtroom drama while overlooking the extensive groundwork that precedes those courtroom appearances. The ability to perform well in court—whether presenting arguments, questioning witnesses, or responding to inquiries—is underpinned by the immense preparation, copious reading, and extensive writing that occurs beforehand. For most of us, success in the legal field demands an enormous amount of reading and writing to leverage those less frequent court appearances effectively.

If your primary focus or attraction to the legal field revolves solely around the excitement of being in a courtroom and overlooks the extensive preparation that precedes it, law might not be the most suitable profession for you.