5 minutes with... Dick Wiley
Starting out, what did you expect from a career in law?
Just a position with a Chicago law firm.
What do you consider to have been your big break?
Getting appointed to the FCC.
What differences do you see in today’s legal market compared to when you started?
Much more technology-driven (clients, firms, practice, etc). Really a world of difference.
What achievement are you most proud of?
Heading the development of the US digital television standard.
What do you consider your greatest failure or regret?
No regrets – I have liked it all. Failures? I am still trying to get it right every day.
"No regrets – I have liked it all. Failures? I am still trying to get it right every day."
What law would you want to change, abolish or create?
Newspaper/Broadcast cross-ownership restriction which, as FCC Chairman, I put into effect in 1975 but which, in today's communications marketplace, is outmoded and counterproductive.
Who is your legal hero?
Ted Olson: great lawyer and even greater guy.
What career would you have in your second life?
Commissioner of Baseball.
How would you like to be remembered?
Just a work-a-day lawyer.
How did you feel when you were asked to be chairman of the FCC by Richard Nixon?
Walking on air-waves!