Being A Lawyer
Being a Lawyer by Lake Mary trial lawyer James G. Vickaryous stands out as a refreshing and humanizing exploration of legal ethics, portraying the profession through a kind and perceptive lens. Vickaryous’ thoughts on the legal profession are valuable for any practicing lawyer or aspiring attorney. He argues that the values of integrity, diligence, and respect can thrive in practice. Vickaryous’ storytelling is both nimble and intentional, skillfully addressing the stereotype of attorneys as cold or self-serving by showing the nuanced, hospitable side of the profession. He conveys a message that is both joyful and resolute: success in law need not come at the cost of our humanity.
One standout theme is hospitality — a value he brings to life through small but meaningful gestures, like offering a cup of coffee to a peer, which he uses as a metaphor for fostering hospitable and curious interactions in a field in which an independent spirit often dominates. Vickaryous illustrates that, though law can feel isolating, simple, intentional acts keep the profession grounded in human connection.
As the reader reflects on the theme presented by Vickaryous, perhaps each reader will recall their own nervous initial experiences with a law professor, a senior partner, or a lawyer with far more experience. After preparing for a formal, high-stakes environment, steeling themself to meet the expectations of someone held in such high regard, to their surprise, one of the first gestures of the mountainous person was to offer coffee. This small act of kindness, mirroring Vickaryous’ principles, shifts our perspective letting us see the person not just as a seasoned attorney or educator, but as someone who values mutual respect and kindness as the foundation of a relationship. Such moments of intentional hospitality ease our nerves and encourage us to be more gracious and attentive professionals.
In his reflections, Vickaryous encourages a mindset of venturing beyond our comfort zones while remaining intentional and choosy about the company we keep. His approach to life and law feels serendipitous yet careful. He gives space for joyful moments and values health, in both a physical and mental sense, as central to professional longevity. It is a privilege, he suggests, to labor in a field that offers opportunities to give back and listen closely — qualities that prevent legal work from becoming purely transactional. Much like the beauty of a sunrise, the work is meaningful, encouraging us to be present and thankful.
In a world that demands so much of lawyers, this book feels like a gift. It is both an encouraging and grounding read, urging us to be curious, diligent, and mindful of the intentionality we bring to our work. Through his respectful, insightful perspective, the author opens the door to a version of the legal profession that is far more than mere legalese or cold ambition — it is a calling shaped by careful and joyful human interaction.
This book would be a good read for lawyers who need a fresh view of the practice of law and for aspiring lawyers entering law school.
