WHY IS IT SO HARD TO BE A LAWYER?
March 16, 2018 WHY IS IT SO HARD TO BE A LAWYER? By Judge David Langham Trial is a stressful event. The whole practice of law is stressful. No attorney ever knows for sure what evidence may be adduced by the opponent(s). Worse, there is never absolute certainty that your own client will not surprise you a few times, usually at the worst possible time. Attorneys strive for preparedness, rack their brains regarding potentialities and possibilities, and they stress. It is hard on the mind, the body, and the people around them. There is seemingly endless advice heaped on lawyers: “be brief,” “be thorough,” “never ask a question you don’t know the answer to,” “be prepared,” “know thy enemy,” “know the law, know the facts, but most important know the judge,” “start strong, finish stronger,” “follow your gut,” “watch for opportunities,” “never let the jury see you sweat,” “never, never give up,” and the list goes on and on. If only memorizing and employing these tips was a path t...