Many people ask us “what makes a good trial lawyer”?
The answer is not an easy one. Most people do not know that 5% of licensed attorneys handle 100% of the law suits that go to trial. Does that mean that this 5% are the ones that are not afraid of standing up and talking to strangers? No. Most trial lawyers will tell you that they are just as nervous before their 100th trial as they were on their first trial. Why? Because when a trial lawyer accepts a case that may go to trial, they are taking on a great responsibility. They’re taking on the responsibility of speaking for the client and telling the story of how someone else has done them an injustice, whether it is a contract, a land dispute, or a severe personal injury.
What makes a good trial lawyer is a person who does not think about the attorney fee or hourly rate, but instead gives all of his or her attention to righting a wrong that’s been done. Of course all attorneys have to make a living and support their own familes, but a true dedicated trial lawyer knows that hard work, dedication to a case, and honesty will provide for all needs.
The number one job of a trial lawyer is to spend the time it takes to know your client and the story of how their lives have been changed. I don’t mean just sit in an office and talk with a client, I mean go to where they live, talk to family members and friends, and learn who your client is. If you don’t know your client and how their lives have been changed, then as a trial lawyer you cannot communicate the story to twelve jurors who know nothing about the lawsuit.
Speaking for a client is an honor that is not to be taken lightly.