Five Lessons for lawyers from Harvey Specter

If you have watched the top legal TV series Suits then you will know who Harvey Specter is. He is the cool corporate lawyer blessed with a unique way with words that many of us would love to adopt. I have picked five quotes from the great man to inspire law students and lawyers to even greater heights.

“Don’t raise your voice. Improve your argument.”

We have talked about the importance of intonation previously on the Legal English UK website but of course the most important tool you have at your disposal is your material. Prepare and rehearse your arguments and make sure you have the evidence to back up those arguments.

“When you’re backed against a wall, break it down.”

You should find a way to destroy obstacles in your path. Struggling to understand dependent prepositions? Learn them. Confused about the past perfect tense? Get a teacher. Can’t get to grips with Land Law? Buy a book.

“The only time success comes before work is in the dictionary.”

Every law student should take this advice to heart. If you want to achieve massive success in your communication skills you are going to have to work hard on your speaking, writing, listening and reading.

“How others see you is not important; how you see yourself is everything.”

Many people worry unnecessarily about making mistakes or being shown up for their lack of knowledge. Reframe your mindset so that you do not worry so much about making mistakes.

“If you’re the smartest person in the room then you are in the wrong room.”

Okay, he probably didn’t say this one (or if he did it has been said many times before) but it still is worth noting. Spend as much time as possible with people who know the law more than you and who communicate with more confidence than you. Learn from them and don’t be afraid to speak with them.

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