The McKenzie Method
January 2026

Elite Advocacy

At McKenzie PLLC, we constantly strive for Elite Advocacy that challenges the old-school defense model. With each McKenzie Method Newsletter, we highlight what’s working on the front lines of litigation - and how we can improve together - so our clients continue to receive clear, decisive, and effective advocacy.

William’s Welcome

One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing in today’s litigation environment isn’t tied to a new rule or a new technology - it’s tied to how quickly and clearly decisions are made.

The cases that resolve best aren’t necessarily the ones with the most information. They’re the ones where the right people make the right calls at the right time.

What’s Working: Faster, Earlier Decision-Making

Across the industry, better outcomes are increasingly tied to early strategic clarity.

Waiting for perfect information often feels responsible, but in reality, delay can:

• Miss settlement windows
• Inflate expectations
• Increase unnecessary cost

Strong defense teams are recognizing that direction beats hesitation. Early evaluations, Teams calls, early framing (of issues, venue, and narratives), and early recommendations help shape the case long before mediation or trial ever becomes imminent.

In litigation, momentum really matters - and momentum favors the team willing to make thoughtful decisions sooner rather than later.

How We Can Improve: Reducing Over-Analysis and Decision Drift

As lawyers and claims professionals, we’re trained to gather facts, explore every angle, and avoid premature conclusions. (I’ve been so guilty of this!) That discipline has value - but it can also slow progress if left unchecked.

At McKenzie PLLC, we’re actively working to:

• Deliver clear recommendations earlier, even while facts are still developing
• Distinguish between information that may be helpful versus information that actually changes the decision
• Frame cases around decision points, not just data accumulation

Our goal isn’t less rigor - it’s more clarity. Fewer information dumps. More decisive guidance. Better momentum.

In Closing

We pinch ourselves every day that we get to serve you as a client. Thank you for the trust and partnership you place in our team.

Our promise remains the same - clear communication, constant improvement, and Elite Advocacy - and we look forward to continuing to sharpen our approach together in the year ahead.

William McKenzie
whm@mckenziepllc.com
(205) 223-7662