What Makes a Good Lawyer?

If you’ve never hired a lawyer before, how are you supposed to know what makes one great? It can be a tricky situation, but don’t worry—we’ve gathered insights from experienced attorneys to help you understand what to look for.

When it comes to finding the right lawyer, it’s about more than just expertise. A good lawyer knows the law, but they also listen carefully, communicate clearly, and act with integrity.

Whether you’re dealing with a major legal issue like a court case or just need some advice, the right lawyer can have a significant impact on the outcome. Let’s dive into the qualities that make a lawyer truly great and how these traits benefit their clients.

Understanding Client Goals

A great lawyer looks beyond just legal details—they understand the bigger picture. As former federal prosecutor Renato Mariotti puts it, “A good lawyer understands their client’s goals and focuses on finding a practical and efficient way to achieve those goals, rather than getting stuck on winning specific legal points.”

While knowledge of the law is important, the best lawyers take the time to understand what their client really wants.

Whether it’s resolving a dispute quickly, reducing risks, or securing long-term benefits, they provide practical solutions. Instead of getting caught up in unnecessary battles, great lawyers focus on what truly matters: delivering results that satisfy the client, not just winning in court.

Listening and Communication

An essential quality of a great lawyer is their ability to listen and communicate effectively. A retired California lawyer and former Fortune 500 general counsel, emphasizes, “They must be a good listener, skilled at sorting relevant facts, and excellent at explaining their position to clients, opposing counsel, a jury, and the court.”

The best lawyers really listen to understand their clients’ concerns. They’re also strong communicators, clearly presenting their ideas and arguments.

Whether negotiating a settlement, explaining complex legal matters, or presenting a case in court, a great lawyer knows how to make things understandable for everyone involved.

Attention to Detail

Listening and communication are key, but attention to detail is just as important. Timothy Duncan, JD, CFA, former Head of Technology for the CFPB, puts it simply: “Paranoia, obsession with detail, and constant fear of getting it wrong—all of which lead to poor life outcomes.”

In law, even small mistakes can have big consequences. The best lawyers are incredibly thorough, often double-checking their work to avoid errors.

Whether reviewing contracts or preparing for a court case, attention to detail can make the difference between winning and losing.

The Triple Threat

There’s a certain quality that separates the great from the good. Daren H. Firestone, a former federal prosecutor and White House attorney specializing in crypto whistleblower cases, sums it up: “One part drive, one part intelligence, and one part creativity.”

Here’s why: Drive means a lawyer is dedicated to fighting for their client’s best interests, even in tough situations. Intelligence helps them navigate complicated legal issues and strategize effectively. Creativity allows them to come up with unique solutions to complex problems.

This combination of determination, smarts, and innovative thinking is what makes a lawyer truly exceptional.

Conclusion

Being a good lawyer goes beyond simply knowing the law. The best lawyers are those who understand their clients’ needs, communicate clearly, pay attention to every detail, and blend drive, intelligence, and creativity.

Whether you’re tackling a challenging legal issue or just seeking advice, finding a lawyer with these qualities can make all the difference in achieving the outcome you need.

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