We sat down with Jason Chalik the co-founder of Chalik & Chalik to discuss his career. For more than 25 years, he and his wife and partner have been making a difference for those injured in Florida.
AALM: What experiences and interests led you to pursue a career in the law? What drew you in particular to your practice areas?
Chalik: During my high school days, I always had a drive to help my community in Plantation. I grew up in the town that I now practice law. I would help seniors, those with disabilities and I would always feel like I received more than I gave. In my field of personal injury, I also have that feeling of helping others that are down or need a champion. I see people on their worst days. They’re injured or worse, they can’t work or even get around without transportation. When their case is over, I see them back on the right track, feeling better and starting to continue their lives. I feel good about that.
AALM: Tell us about your decision to launch your own firm. What were your goals when starting out?
Chalik: My wife and I decided to start Chalik & Chalik over 25 years ago. We didn’t want a factory where someone was just a number. We didn’t want associates with no experience handling such a delicate and important issue for a client. So we opened our own firm. We speak to every client. We represent all clients. We also try our own cases and handle our own appeals. Nothing is missed. We wanted to fight for people and build relationships, so they knew that we were there for their friends and family.
AALM: How has your career evolved over your years of experience? How is it different than you expected in law school?
Chalik: Practicing law and law school are two different worlds. Law school is about tons of reading and all the different legal theories that could help you achieve a desired outcome. Practicing law is a lot of people-to-people communication. You have to listen, you need to be compassionate, and you need to fight for your client.
AALM: Looking back, are there any cases that have stood out? Ones that shaped or shifted your practice or your outlook on the practice of law?
Chalik: We had our biggest case when an Ivy league graduate was driving his vehicle and was in an accident. It was a one-car accident. His vehicle lost control and he was ejected. Some attorneys would think there was nothing to that case. We later found that the tire was defective. The tire shop placed a defective tire on the car, making the vehicle defective. We settled that case for $22 million.
It taught me to really stop and think on every client’s case. Think outside of the box.
AALM: Tell us about any local organizations you’re passionate about,
Chalik: I am very active in my synagogue, Broward Central Synagogue. I’ve been a member since 1977 and served as president twice in that time. For me, it is about spirituality, connecting and community. This is my home, my community and I do most of my charitable works through my synagogue.
AALM: What goals are you still hoping to accomplish in your professional career? What’s the next big milestone for your firm?
Chalik: Our firm has now expanded to Texas and Kentucky. We are looking to grow and add quality people.
