A Profile in Professionalism ~ Tommy Fibich
Years ago, as many Harris County lawyers recall, we had a central docket system that, for better or worse, required lawyers to attend a big, unwieldly docket call on Friday morning. Almost everyone enjoyed the excitement, humor and even drama that often preceded scheduling of next week's trials.
Docket call mentors
Big gun trial lawyers from around the state would jockey for position and court assignment, and laughter would break out when lame reasons for continuances were lightly presented to the packed house. But this weekly gathering was much more than entertainment. For all the young lawyers, Friday docket call served as our first exposure to great lawyers who would soon serve as mentors. We would see, firsthand, the legends of the courtroom and how they interacted with each other, often shaking hands and joking before entering the pit.
Our word as our bond
It soon became apparent to the uninitiated that there were bonds formed among these advocates that far transcended their trials. We quickly learned that when one gave his word, it meant something. One's reputation for truth and fair play was more than ideal prized by the Bench and Bar. Few agreements needed to be in writing for enforceability.
These early lessons in camaraderie and character have durably served us well over the years. That's the way the pure practice of law ought to be... that's professionalism.