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How can I be a lawyer if I’m too nice?

I would love to be a lawyer but am too nice. For example, I wouldn’t want to give anyone the death penalty. Lawyers make decent money and I could use that money to keep my future family healthy and clean. Would I be able to still become a lawyer??

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Mary Patrice’s Answer

Hi, Lillyana! You can absolutely still become a lawyer even if you consider yourself too nice. Being compassionate and empathetic can actually be a great trait to have in the legal profession. Lawyers come in all personalities and styles, and your kindness can help you build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. Many successful attorneys find ways to integrate their personal beliefs with their professional roles. If the idea of dealing with harsh penalties feels uncomfortable, you might choose to focus on areas of law that don’t involve such issues. For example, working in fields like civil rights, environmental law, or public interest law allows you to advocate for positive change while staying true to your values. Ultimately, being a lawyer can be much more than just prosecuting cases. Pursue your passion for law, and you'll likely find a path that aligns with both your career goals and your sense of compassion.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Lillyana
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Amber’s Answer

Hi Lillyana, I love that you're thinking about this. Being nice is actually an extremely important trait in a lawyer. Clients--especially criminal defendants--often come to lawyers in an already vulnerable state; they don't need a lawyer who might come off as uncaring and brash. If you're a family lawyer, your client might be dealing with a heartbreaking situation where children is involved. Therefore, being extra sensitive and caring would be very important. Being able to show compassion and empathize with clients is actually a great way to gain their trust, which is crucial in a client-attorney relationship.

And contrary to what's depicted on TV, you don't have to be mean to be a good lawyer. TV shows often dramatize the legal profession to the point of depicting questionable practices as being ethically sound. In my experience, the best attorneys to work with (even attorneys on the opposing side!) are people who are civil, respectful, and kind. The worst ones are always the ones who are unnecessarily aggressive. I understand being on the aggressive side may be their "lawyering style" or strategy, but I don't think it's necessarily the best way or the only way to resolve things.

As other people have commented before me, you can also avoid practice areas that you would not be comfortable with. You can be a transactional attorney and work in corporate law, real estate financing, estate planning, etc. There are a myriad of paths you can pursue where your gentler personality would be a great asset.
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Jerome’s Answer

There are so many different types of lawyer that you don’t necessarily need to study criminal law. I am confident there is space for someone nice and caring :)
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Lillyana
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