Last week, after 5+ years of practicing criminal defense, I tried my first case before a jury.  The client was charged with Attempted Murder, gun violations, and related crimes.  Due to the nature of the charges and my client’s criminal record, a conviction would likely have resulted in a sentence of incarceration of 20 to 40 years.

My opening statement and closing argument were nerve-racking.  At times, I stumbled over my words.  My client probably thought, “What the f*?”  The pressure of the situation was most difficult to shrug off during these moments. 

I was fortunate:
There was a codefendant, and an experienced, quality attorney represented the individual.  She tolerated all of my mundane questions and assisted me whenever I needed it.  The judge was pleasant and fair, and Her Honor’s court staff added to my comfort.  The prosecutor, who is more skilled and experienced than me, was a congenial adversary.  That should not be a surprise, because, like me, he graduated from the Prep.

I was stoic when the foreman read the verdict, though I wanted to shout out, “HELL YEAH!”  It was a tremendous feeling – knowing that my advocacy helped to spare someone from decades in prison.  Yesterday, the client thanked me and glossed me as a “good attorney.”  I aspire to be the best attorney, but all good things in all good time.