Interview With Bernard Nomberg
Since 1995, Bernard D. Nomberg has practiced civil litigation in Birmingham, Alabama. At Nomberg Law Firm, his practice focuses on workers’ compensation, Social Security disability, and personal injury claims. Bernard is a member of the Birmingham Bar Workers’ Compensation and Solo/Small Firm Sections and serves on the Bar’s Mentoring Committee and Grievance Committee.
Lawyer Minds: What was your law school experience like?
Bernard Nomberg: Memorable, to say the least. I attended Jones School of Law in Montgomery, AL, which at that time was the only law school in our state where you could work as a 1L. Our classes were at night. I was able to clerk for a local attorney all three years of law school. I learned a lot! Also, I have the distinction of having fainted in front of a jury just before a medical malpractice trial began.
Lawyer Minds: Do you think your field of practice suits your personality?
Bernard Nomberg: It really does. Most of the work that I handle is workers’ comp and Social Security disability, which really go hand in hand. Helping those who are injured on the job is something I truly enjoy handling. Showing sensitivity and empathy while leading the client through a very difficult time are some of the things that make my job fulfilling.
Lawyer Minds: How do you decide whether to take a case?
Bernard Nomberg: During the initial consultation, we determine whether any legal rights need to be protected. In the workers’ comp world, this could be the injured worker’s right to medical care, compensation, or, in some instances, continued employment.
Lawyer Minds: How important is it to remain in the “public eye,” so to speak, within your local community?
Bernard Nomberg: At the Nomberg Law Firm, we have prided our continued community service in the Birmingham Metro area. As lawyers, we are leaders in the community, and we feel we have a responsibility toward those endeavors. Whether we are providing monthly meals and toiletries at a local church, serving meals at a warming station when the weather is cold, or doing pro bono work with our bar association, we have built this into part of our law firm’s purpose.
Lawyer Minds: What advice would you give to a person who is seeking legal guidance for the first time?
Bernard Nomberg: Do not use the Internet for your legal advice. Whether you know attorneys or not, do some research locating attorneys in your community who handle the type of work for your situation. If you’re unsure of what type of legal situation it is, you can contact your local Bar Association, and they may make a referral or recommendation. Do not try to do this on your own. Seeking the advice of attorneys experienced in that area of law will make all the difference in the world to you.
Lawyer Minds: What’s the one social cause you believe in the most?
Bernard Nomberg: Equality for all, which would include providing legal services for those who need it most.
Lawyer Minds: Do you feel your firm’s core values and culture impact the clients that come to you?
Bernard Nomberg: Absolutely. Providing legal answers to those who are going through a very frustrating time helps to lower their stress. Whether it’s in-person or on the phone discussions or providing videos on our YouTube channel about various areas of the law, we do our very best to provide information to those who are looking for it.
Lawyer Minds: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering practicing law?
Bernard Nomberg: Find a mentor who will provide guidance and their time to help you. We all need help at some point along our journey. Most older or experienced lawyers enjoy passing along their experiences. You do not have to recreate the wheel this way.
Lawyers Minds would like to take a moment to thank Mr. Nomberg for sharing his insights with us!
