Editor's Column

Why Did You Become a Lawyer?
By: Katy Boatman

Perhaps you are working with law students this summer, as I am. If so, undoubtedly you have seen the nervous looks in their eyes as they contemplate their future job prospects. The state of the economy and the day-to-day life of being a lawyer often makes us forget the reasons we went to law school in the first place. I have heard so many of my colleagues discourage people away from going to law school. I say, as we interact with law students and others, we focus on the benefits of being a lawyer and the positive change we can effect.

So, why did you go to law school? Was it to help people? Have you lost touch with that goal? If you are feeling disillusioned, take a pro bono case or get involved with the bar. For me, it wasn’t until I jumped into bar activities that I knew how great they are. It was only through my mentor’s encouragement that I became involved in the Texas Young Lawyers Association, and I am sure glad I did. Statewide, our bar associations make a big impact. Just look at the articles in this month’s edition of eNews. Look at the pamphlets TYLA has published; they provide real advice to address real problems. Look at the services provided by local young lawyers associations. If you want to get in touch with that sense you had, way back when, that lawyers have a unique platform to help people, get out there and participate.

In my experience, just when I’ve about had it with being a lawyer, something happens to change my mind: I get an interesting case—and sometimes I even win a case. I am able to provide someone, even if not a client, with advice in a time of need. Or I participate in a real-life project that helps inform people of their rights. Whatever it is, I wish I had more of those moments. They are there waiting for you through pro bono and bar activities, if you will take them.