Can "nice" and "lawyer" coexist?

[rider06]

I'm a nice guy.  I'm not a pushover, but I tend to take things easy and not hold grudges.  Do I have to be nasty to be a successful lawyer?

[mecarr]

yes. you must be nasty. sorry. you're whole personality will have to change. you won'tbe able to be yourself. just kidding!

[Joey_JD2b]

It's called Alternative Dispute Resolution.

[leblanc]

Joey_JD2b, hun, do yo want me to let the forum know who you are?

[giraffe205]

I think that "nice" and "lawyer" can coexist. The best lawyering styles that I have seen are "politely aggressive."

[reverendlex]

I think you'll be more successful as a litigator if you can stay nice. Stick to your guns, but do it politely.

[SymphonyOfDreams]

Working in business being nice and agressive without showing that much emotions to the other side will guarantee you success in most negotiations, not to mention building a more efective cooperation to achieve a common goal... most of the times being emotionless is the key, but when emotion is required "nice" is a much more constructive approach.

Now, if we are talking about real non-faking life... I'm a lawyer, and I think I'm nice... I'm a God actually, so I'm nice... I just tend to be upfront and honest about stuff and people most of the times dont like for other people to tell them the truth in the face...

[kmpnj]

I'm reminded of a phrase my mother uses from time to time..."Don't mistake kindness for weakness."  This is how I've tried to live my life as a law enforcement officer, both civilian and military.  Its also the attitude that I plan on taking with me into the practice of law.  I try to be polite and respectful of others and their circumstances, but do not try to take advantage of my desire not to be a complete jerk.  Just remember to be yourself and not let yourself get taken advantage of.  You should be fine.  Just remember that NO is not a dirty word.

[Joey_JD2b]

Joey_JD2b, hun, do yo want me to let the forum know who you are?

I'm not sure I follow...no, no, I'm quite sure I don't follow at all.  Let the board know who I am?  Indeed!

[wiseone]

never take advise from someone who takes it in the ass.