SHOULD LAWYERS BE HAPPY PERSONS?
Are happy lawyers better lawyers?
I’m not addressing the issue of income, although I assume many choose to become a lawyer because of the money (and prestige) involved. Fact is that lawyers have one of the highest rates of depression and burn-out among the professional careers.
The question is whether ‘happy lawyers’ are better lawyers? And if so, why do so many ‘unhappy lawyers’ still have lots of clients? Is it necessary that lawyers find meaning in their work? Do lawyers often knowingly act unjustly and does that influence their (lack of) happiness?
What’s the role of clients in this respect: some people hire a lawyer to get as much protection as possible to shield them from the consequences of their wrongdoing.
There is much more to say about this topic. Please visit the weblog’s forum. I welcome your views on this topic.
Karel Frielink
Attorney (Lawyer) / Partner
