The Value of Your Professional Reputation
September 3, 2014 § 3 Comments
Not too long ago, I posted here about the value of your reputation with the court. It’s a subject that can not be overemphasized.
Yesterday, Philip Thomas added an eloquent post on topic: Mississippi Judges Stress the Importance of Professional Reputation.
It’s not only important reading for young (or “Baby” in Mr. Thomas’s parlance) lawyers, but also for more experienced, jaded lawyers who might have begun letting the concept slip from their grasp.
There’s one judge, who shall remain nameless, who thinks I’m one of the better young lawyers he sees. I don’t want him to lose his illusions, so it inspires me to be extra careful with my cases before him. I try and extend that care to all my cases, but something has to give. Some clients get (and some judges see) merely competent representation – not the best I can give. N.B.: Those clients are those who have already lost their case before I stand up, and the judges are the ones who have demonstrated that even if I quote mandatory authority to them, that every word that comes out of my mouth is wrong. For those judges, I focus on creating the record for appeal.
My own philosophy is that if you can’t look back on every case, even the sure losers, and say honestly that you gave it your best, then you have failed your client and should be ashamed to look in the mirror.
I agree, Judge; this is part of why I’m leaving the practice of law. I can’t give every client my best.