LEX FUGIT-TOM AZONI

Tom Azoni, career-long trial attorney, Facebook friend and perhaps most importantly a graduate of Austin Catholic High School (Go, Friars!)  retired as Senior Partner at Secrest Wardle last week.  Among other things, Tom's bio states he was a part of the firm's "Amusement and Leisure" group.  I must find out more about that.

He posted a picture from his retirement lunch on Facebook with this comment: "Thank you all for the kind comments. I loved practicing law, particularly walking the hallways of the courthouses where I heard the best stories, heard and told the tallest tales and got to work with so many fine lawyers. Best to you all."  Jan. 17, 2022.

I never saw a more perfect opening for a story for this site, so I contacted Tom, and he provided me with this gem:

"Ok, here’s my favorite. I was at a settlement conference in Wayne Circuit. The judge sent us out to the hallway to talk about a resolution. When we got there, I said, “So, what’s it going to take? I don’t have much. It’s a lousy case.” The other attorney pulled out a vial with a yellow liquid in it and said, “Before we begin, my client would like you to rub this oil in your hands.” I said, “Has this oil been blessed?” He answered “Yes, it’s been sanctified.” To which I said, “Let me guess. She thinks that if I put the oil on my hands, God will open my wallet. Right?” “Right”. “Ok. Let’s give it a try.” After sanctifying my hands, I had to tell him, “Sorry pal, I still only have $2500”. She took the money. Tom"

Wonderful story.  That sure couldn't happen on Zoom.

I hope Tom will share some more of his stories.  If so, I can post them to my semi-regular Lex Fugit feature in Detroit Lawyer magazine.

Thanks, again Tom.  Enjoy retirement.  You will soon find that you still don't have enough time to get stuff done.

Comments

[martin fealk]

Tom Azoni retires. A great day of celebration for plaintiffs' attorneys. What o what will Auto Owners Ins. do without him?