Question of the Month

• Publication year: 2010
• Pages: 30

39 Colo.Law. 30 Colorado Bar Journal 2010.

2010, July, Pg. 30. Question of the Month

The Colorado Lawyer
July 2010
Vol. 39, No. 7 [Page 30]

In and Around the Bar The SideBar

Question of the Month

Colorado Bar Association members are being asked a question or questions related to the law and the legal profession. Responses, which do not identify the sender, print in the next available issue and on the CBA-CLE's blog, "The Learned Lawyer," at www.learnedlawyer.com. Responses have been edited for spelling, grammar, and space. Readers may contribute questions by sending them to leonamartinez@cobar.org, using the subject line "Q of the Month." Look for Questions of the Month on the CBA's Thursday C-Brief listserv, in the pages of this issue, and on The Learned Lawyer.

As an attorney or legal professional, what is your definition of "success"?

My test of success has three prongs: (1) being pleased with your work, (2) having clients who appreciate your work, and (3) being appropriately compensated for your work. Simple as that.

My definition of success is to be able to do my (legal) work; get paid for my services; know that I helped my client; and particularly, know that my assistance made a positive difference. When I get a card, letter, flowers, or gift from the client thanking me for my help, I really feel good and feel like I and my profession made a difference.

Success is getting enough sleep, looking forward to the day ahead, having a chance to see your grandsons, and listening to Buddy Holly or Willie Nelson.

What is your definition of a successful lawyer? I posed the same question to a senior partner at a large Denver firm during...