Getting to Know Team Leader Joe Murphey

Tue, Jun 17th, 2014 | by Miles Mediation and Arbitration | ADR Resources, Get to Know our Neutrals | Social Share

At Miles Mediation, we believe in creating a culture around family. When you walk in our doors, we want you to feel welcomed like you’re family and make yourself at home. So come on in, and get to know us better…

Why did you want to go into law?

My grandmother wanted me to be a lawyer, so would take me up to the local courthouse to watch the trials when I was a kid. The benches reminded me of church; but the things they were talking about — crimes, divorces, lawsuits — were a lot more interesting than what they talked about in church. I remember watching the lawyers strut around in their seersucker suits, pounding their fists on the jury rail as they made their closing arguments. I couldn’t believe they paid people for doing something that fun.

Where did you grow up?

Greenville, SC.

What does “family” mean to you?

My father was a traveling salesman. He was (is) a good man, and he worked very hard to provide for all of our needs. But his job required him to be on the road 5 or more days a week. I grew up vowing to be husband and Dad who was always there for my wife and kids. To me, family is being involved as much as possible in the lives of my wife and kids. I think I have succeeded. Probably to the point they sometimes wish I was a traveling salesman.

Why do you love your job?

If I was amazed, as a kid, that they actually pay people to be lawyers, I was more amazed when I attended my first mediation. They actually pay someone to do this? All I have to do every day is (1) meet and greet people, (2) be nice to them (3) listen to their concerns, (4) explain those concerns to another group of people and (5) repeat until done.

What is your favorite food?

My fried chicken.

What would you say your spirit animal is?

Sloth

What is your favorite sport?

Baseball to watch; Golf to play

How do you unwind?

A little scotch and sofa. Perhaps some Faulkner. Or reality TV.

What is your favorite thing about Atlanta?

The traffic, which leads to collisions, which leads to mediations. Seriously, I love the diversity. This town has everyone and everything.