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| Chief Justice Warren Burger "Lawyers Ought to be Healers" |
Before practicing law I practiced chiropractic, acupuncture, and physical therapy for ten years in Palm Beach County, Florida. Then I sold my chiropractic practice, and entered law school in 1995.
I moved to practice civil litigation in medical and personal injury law in PA and NJ. Then civil and family mediation in Florida. AND For the last 9 years I am here in Ithaca, New York practicing DWI and traffic related defense.
Even though I don't see myself as a chiropractor anymore I still see myself as a Healer.
Can a DWI defense lawyer be a healer of conflict?
I begin the year with a quote on HEALING from a great man and judge, Chief Justice Warren Burger.
"The entire legal profession- lawyers, judges, law teachers - have become so mesmerized with the stimulation of the courtroom contest that we tend to forget that we ought to be healers - healers of conflict. Doctors in spite of astronomical medical costs, still retain a high degree of public confidence because they are perceived as healers? Healers, not warriors? Healers, not procurers? Healers not hired guns?"
The Burger Court upheld Miranda, and was instrumental for many years in holding our constitutional rights as sacred. Burger understood that great lawyers help heal conflict as in conflict resolution. Anytime we have sides at odds, and isn't that what law really is about dealing with the resolution of conflict.
RESOLUTION is in a Solution
I believe that people need to get into each other's heads. Get into their mindset and perspective to see things from both viewpoints. Everybody wants something. Everything has a price. Compromise may be necessary depending upon what the parties are fighting about. Are we merely arguing over the facts, the law, or the fairness of the situation? Prosecutors and judges each have a viewpoint on criminal cases before them, understanding that view is often invaluable to resolving the case fairly.
Wars Always Have a Cost and Sometimes Negotiation is the Best Way to Resolve Conflict
If so, what is the cost for war? Conflict and battles enact a toll upon all the parties as well as the Courts. Sometimes what everyone may want is to be done with the fighting and to move on. There is a great value to closure, especially early closure. Long battles, and wars don't usually end well. There are No guarantees with trials, and wild uncertainties of outcome especially with final sentencing.
Most Criminal Cases are Negotiated
Many of the best lawyers are also the best negotiators of conflict. Negotiation requires a certain and specific skill set. It helps if you can point out the weaknesses in the other side's position or the cost or uncertainty of a battle. Deals can be made, and healing can occur, sometimes simultaneously.
Always consult with an attorney about any criminal or non-criminal charges you have pending to discuss your options and/or defenses. I am an attorney, former chiropractor, coach, advisor, and professional speaker.
My online materials include over 500 + blog posts, dozens of articles, and over 500 + informative videos on my youtube channel. I have authored and co-authored numerous books and articles on law both universal and man-made.
I was selected by Super Lawyers as a Upstate New York 2013 Rising Star in DWI/DUI Defense based on my experience, contributions, and professional standing.
http://www.ithacadwi.com
newman.lawrence@gmail.com
607-229-5184
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