Best Rainmaker

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Robert L. Habush, Habush, Habush & Rottier S.C.

Veteran trial lawyer Robert L. Habush says his rainmaking formula is simple – but don’t try to replicate it overnight.

It starts with sustained success in the courtroom that consistently generates publicity due to the remarkable results. Habush has been trying cases for 48 years.

Then, hire exceptional lawyers. Habush looks for laterals, three to five years in practice, plus a few bright stars at the law schools.

Use tasteful advertising. Habush uses educational television ads. Also, he put together an informational TV program in the 1980s called “Knowing the Law,” that cemented the firm’s “Mayo Clinic-type image.”

Finally, expand the firm statewide by seeking seasoned, out-state trial lawyers and bringing them on board. The firm now has 12 offices.

Habush planned to practice tax law, but when he joined his father’s general-practice firm in 1961, he discovered he preferred litigation.

“I tried a tremendous amount of lawsuits in the 1960s, and found that I liked being on the side of the ‘little guy,’ against the people with power and money. And, I probably would not do well taking orders from an insurance company.”

His law partner of 30 years, Daniel Rottier of Madison, observes, “Very sophisticated businesses have ways of finding out who the best business lawyers are. It’s more difficult for the average person with an injury to figure out whom to hire. It’s still largely word-of-mouth, and it’s still performance-based.

“Bob works harder than anyone else I know. He’s not just an attraction. He’s a dynamo.”