1 Sure, but was it ever thus? Successful lawyers are so because they devote a lot of themselves to their practice. They do not work 9 to 5, rather, they work when they need to complete what is before them and provide confidence and good service to their clients. Sometimes 15 or more hours a day. That'll get you lean and mean. They build a trust in their clients that if getting the desired result means missing a trip to Europe, or a night with your family, or a long planned visit to your folks, you still will take the time to finish the job, and prevail. Your family and other life will suffer. That'll get you mean, too. Your reputation follows you everywhere, and the best advertising in the world is a client who has found a lawyer he or she can actually trust. Soon, you'll represent all of their friends and associates. Then you'll be so busy you'll have even less time for your family and friends. That'll get you mean, too. Lastly, here's a little test for you, Annie. I'll bet you have a "dream car", one that you are going to buy with your starting bonus, or as soon as you are settled in your practice and have your residence set up and can afford a new car. Take a drive one night after 7:30 P.M. to any large private office building where lawyers work. Look around at the cars. Then tell me how many old chevys or cheap Japanese imports you find versus Porsches, Jags, Caddies, MBZ's, etc. The car you drive is just a symbol, but a pretty reliable one, don't you think? I rest my case.

2 I think that I told you before you launched on this endeavor, that I knew very few happy practicing attorneys. That's what comes of robbing widows and orphans, or bandying with those who engage in tedious arguments of insidious intent. The upside is all of the opportunities in business for those with a JD.

3 Annika's going to be an ice queen in the near future? OH NOES!!!!

4 Annika: Yet another reason to get the hell out of the law profession before it's too late.