A PROFILE IN PROFESSIONALISM

James B. Sales Of Counsel, Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P. and Chair, Texas Access to Justice Commission

Professionalism is a concept not easily defined. Yet, it is the indispensable attribute for those privileged to practice the art of law. I believe that the essence of professionalism is most eloquently captured in the words of former United States Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes:

“The highest reward that can come to a lawyer is the esteem of his professional brethren. That esteem is one in unique conditions and proceeds from an impartial judgment of professional rivals. It cannot be purchased. It cannot be artificially created. It cannot be gained by artifice or contrivance to attract public attention. It is not measured by pecuniary gains. It is an esteem which is born in sharp conflicts and thrives despite conflicting interest. It is an esteem commanded solely by integrity of character and by brains and skill in the honorable performance of professional duty.”