Yes, prophecy. Attorneys are often called upon to predict the future. That is one of the benefits of hiring legal counsel. They have been trained in the ways of “jurisprudence,” 
meaning, the study of the evolution of the living law (at both the state and federal level). Indeed, universities issue a doctorate in juris prudence to graduating attorneys for their achievement.
How do attorneys manage to prophecy about the future of their client’s legal lives? Experience, juris prudence, and an understanding of the current state of affairs. Experience tells you where and when theory can become reality. Experience tells you whether or not “this judge” likes to stick his or her neck out a little and make a favorable ruling in unfamiliar territory. A doctorate in jurisprudence tells you what the theory is and whether it is ripe to become reality. Does it make logical sense from a legal perspective? Jurisprudence acts as a starting point and goes hand-in-hand with determining the current state of affairs. It answers questions like: Is the world socially and politically ready for a ruling in our favor? Is the law in this area developed enough to provide the foundation you need to win? You know, prophecy.
The Truth About Prophecy
Any honest attorney will tell you that they cannot guarantee the outcome of any case. In fact, it is illegal to do so in California, so much so that it is illegal to give the mere impression that an attorney can get you a certain result or outcome. Attorneys are not true prophets. They are not given visions from God Almighty (unless they are, of course, but we are talking about the everyday situation). They must rely on the skills and tools accessible to them. Actually, perhaps one thing attorneys and real prophets have in common is the dooms-day speech. An attorney can competently predict what will happen if you lose!
Wait a minute? What’s the point of predicting the future if results are not guaranteed? Context and peace-of-mind is everything. It is the client that decides whether to proceed, it is the client that pulls the trigger, and it is the client that determines what outcome they want to pursue. As the client, you deserve to have a solid understanding of all the predictive indicators that can affect your case, because at the end of the day its… Your Life. Your Legacy.
Originally Published October 29, 2015
By, Merrill A. Hanson. To contact Merrill A. Hanson, please call 626-905-4682, or write to 180 N. Glendora Ave., Ste. 201, Glendora, CA 91741.
~This article is not, nor should it be construed as, legal advice. You should contact an attorney for your specific situation. Copyright Merrill A. Hanson, all rights reserved.
