The power to change

With less than a month until the general election, the debate and the spin is becoming more intense day-by-day. 

This period brings an unexpected and sometimes disturbing array of political beliefs to the fore, from all corners of society, and from a legal profession which is taking a special interest this time around.

Between them, lawyers and politicians have shared the most hated profession title, probably more times than bankers, traffic wardens, and estate agents put together. The legal profession rarely wins any popularity competitions, which is why it is surprising that so many lawyers aspire to be politicians.

Even more surprising is that increasing numbers are making this transition relatively early in their careers. No doubt there is a lot of common ground between lawyers and career politicians. Shared skills in debating, as well as working with clients or constituents to resolve troublesome issues (and an occasional flair for the dramatic), are all essential and visible in many of our most successful politicians and lawyers. Driving these individuals should be a desire to do what is just.

Breaking away

I know several lawyers who have fought against their instincts to progress their legal careers, only to break away from their employers at the earliest opportunity, having not believed in the work they were doing. Unfortunately, some go so far as to break away from the profession completely, so unfulfilled were they by their roles. But as we approach another general election, I wonder whether we have more power to change the world as lawyers than we could as politicians.

Aside from a few fringe parties, we live in a time where left and right converge ever more frequently. Some of our politicians come across as being bland and vacuous, more consumed by their own careers (and second homes) than the welfare of the state. There is a fear that this is becoming all too normal and acceptable. 

Fragmented profession

It is now more important than ever for those lawyers who are standing for a parliamentary position to take with them their experiences as practitioners and not to forget that they continue to represent a profession which, unlike party politics, is becoming ever more fragmented and separated.

It may be tempting, even important, to be your own person, to step away from the legal aid debate and play down your legal training, but by sticking to those principles enshrined in us as lawyers, specifically solicitors, there is a lot of good that can be done.

The only thing left to do is wish the best of luck to all those who have put their legal careers on hold as they campaign for their parties. 

Kevin Poulter, editor at large @kevinpoulter | editorial@solicitorsjournal.co.uk