Why Speaking Well Helps You to Become a Lawyer
A person who speaks well effectively communicates with clear, concise speech. He knows what words to use and how to use them to best effect. This skill serves a lawyer well, since his clients rely on him to give advice and be an advocate. A student cannot get through law school without displaying the skills that will allow her to become a good attorney.
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Court
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Most people think of lawyers as they see them on television, passionately arguing for their client's innocence or delivering the closing that will bring justice for a crime victim's family. While the majority of lawyers never set foot in a courtroom, being well-spoken and persuasive is vital for the ones who do. Trial lawyers must be able to influence a jury effectively, so many have as much verbal communication skills as any stage actor. Without the ability to be verbally persuasive, a trial lawyer will be a failure.
Advocacy
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Even those lawyers who only deal with cases outside the courtroom, the ability to select the right words and moderate both tone and pitch is crucial. Depositions, where witnesses, plaintiffs and defendants are questioned about the case, are often recorded. Even if the lawyer conducting the deposition is never on camera, their voice is. The right phrase, delivered in the proper tone at the right time can unnerve a witness and change the dynamics of a case, as well as portray confidence and force on the lawyer's part.
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Advisory
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Working with clients and explaining their rights and the details of a case demands confidence and control from a lawyer. A perceived lack of expertise by the client can cause him to lose faith in his lawyer and distrust her advice. A well-spoken lawyer can reassure her clients that they can trust in her and underscore that she is there for them, representing their interests.
Negotiation
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Effective negotiating demands the illusion of control, and a lawyer who speaks well conveys this control. He knows how to say what he needs to say and when to say it. A lawyer who is verbally hesitant and is not fluent will seem unsure of his position, which causes the opposing side to feel they have a stronger bargaining position. In addition, a well-spoken person is much better at pulling off a bluff.
Networking
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A lawyer who speaks well is better at networking and so brings in more clients. Financial success comes from how much you can collect in billings, and more clients mean more money. Having an ample number of clients also creates the public perception that a lawyer is good at her job.
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References
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