Book Review
| Publication year | 2022 |
| Pages | 0076 |
| Citation | Vol. 27 No. 6 Pg. 0076 |
The Significant Lawyer: The Pursuit of Purpose and Professionalism
By Hon. William S. Duffey Jr.
185 pages, Mercer University Press
REVIEWED BY KEVIN PATRICK
"The Significant Lawyer: The Pursuit of Purpose and Professionalism" begins with a quote from Hon. Griffin B. Bell about his belief that "honorable service is the highest conduct of a lawyer." These initial remarks about honoring the profession establish the framework of Hon. William S. Duffey Jr.'s book about the true meaning of the practice of law and the paramount importance of professionalism throughout a legal career. Judge Duffey draws on his experiences of more than 40 years in practice, including 14 on the federal bench, to illustrate the importance of alignment to lead a fulfilling and meaningful legal career.
After these introductory remarks, Duffey first examines "Lost Lawyers" and reflects on the ways the legal profession has oftentimes prioritized profits above the profession itself. Judge Duffey then transitions to "The Aligned Lawyer," which reveals one of the greatest satisfactions in life is aligning conduct with values. He asks the readers to consider their own personal and professional values. Building on this theme, Judge Duffey explores the shared values of the profession. For example, Duffey returns to "A Lawyer's Creed" and reminds the readers that the practice of law is not merely a commercial job, but rather a true calling to engage in a noble profession.
Duffey helps define aligned lawyers in the ensuing chapter of his book by reflecting on people, like his own father, Judge Bell and others, that embody the characteristics of aligned individuals and lawyers. They all share the traits of honesty, integrity and fairness. Judge Duffey returns to influences, such as intrusive technology, uncivil opposing counsel and demanding clients, that can disrupt a lawyer's alignment. Within this framework, Duffey discusses ways to successfully serve clients by developing trusting relationships, understanding the personal impacts of litigation, and diligently forging and sustaining bonds with clients. Not only does an aligned lawyer develop those bonds with clients, but aligned lawyers also understand the importance of productive relationships with opposing counsel. Duffey insightfully comments, "You're the master of your reputation." What is more, Duffey stresses the importance
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