What Makes a Good Lawyer?

If you’ve never had to hire one, how are you supposed to know what makes a good lawyer? It can feel like a frustrating chicken-and-egg situation! Fortunately, we’ve gathered insights from experienced lawyers to help you understand what to look for.

When you need a lawyer, it’s crucial to find someone who is more than just smart. A good lawyer knows the law, of course, but they also need to listen well, be honest, and explain things clearly.

Whether you’re facing a major legal issue, like going to court, or simply need advice, the right lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome. Let’s explore the key qualities that make a great lawyer and how these traits help them best serve their clients.

Understanding Client Goals

A great lawyer doesn’t just focus on legal technicalities—they understand the bigger picture. Former federal prosecutor Renato Mariotti, the Chicago-based securities litigation attorney and It’s Complicated co-host, explains: “A good lawyer understands their client’s goals and is focused on finding a practical and efficient way to achieve those goals rather than making or winning specific legal points.”

While knowing the law is important, a great lawyer takes the time to truly understand what the client wants. Whether it’s resolving a dispute quickly, minimizing risk, or securing a long-term advantage, the best lawyers deliver practical solutions. They avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary legal battles and focus on what matters most: client satisfaction, not just a win in the courtroom.

Listening and Communication

Another vital quality of a lawyer is the ability to listen and communicate effectively. Retired California lawyer Barney Rosenberg, a Fortune 500 general counsel, and EthicsLine founder, says, “S/he must be a good listener. Must be skilled at sorting out the relevant facts and at applying the law to the facts. And must be excellent at explaining their position to the client(s), to the opposing counsel, to a jury, and to the court (judge).”

The best lawyers listen carefully to understand their clients’ concerns fully. They are also clear communicators, presenting their ideas and arguments effectively. Whether negotiating a settlement, explaining complex legal issues, or presenting a case in court, great lawyers know how to make their point so that others can easily understand.

Attention to Detail

While listening and communication are key, attention to detail is just as important. Timothy Duncan, JD, CFA, former Head of Technology for the CFPB, sums it up well: “Paranoia, obsession with detail, and constant fear of getting it wrong. All of which otherwise lead to poor life outcomes.”

Even the smallest mistake can have serious consequences in the legal world. That’s why the best lawyers are meticulous and often double-check their work to avoid errors. Whether they’re reviewing contracts or preparing for court, careful attention to every detail can be the difference between winning and losing a case.

Triple Threat

Finally, there’s an undeniable ‘je ne sais quoi’ that sets great lawyers apart. According to Daren H. Firestone, a former federal prosecutor and White House attorney now specializing in crypto whistleblower cases in Washington, DC, a good lawyer embodies a powerful trio of qualities: ‘one part drive, one part intelligence, and one part creativity.’

Allow us to elaborate on this answer. Drive ensures that a lawyer is dedicated to fighting for their client’s best interests, even when the case gets tough. Intelligence helps them navigate complex legal issues, think strategically, and interpret the law effectively. Finally, creativity sets great lawyers apart by enabling them to find innovative solutions to unique problems. This combination of determination, intelligence, and creative thinking is what truly defines a great lawyer.

Conclusion

Being a good lawyer goes far beyond simply knowing the law. The best lawyers are those who understand their clients’ goals, communicate effectively, pay close attention to detail, and balance drive, intelligence, and creativity.

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