Letter to a law school graduate.

Dear Law School Graduate:

Congratulations--graduating from law school is a milestone! Take time to celebrate your achievement with family and friends. Tomorrow you can refocus on passing the bar exam, finding a job, and paying back student loans.

Good fortune has already smiled on you. Your chosen profession will open doors for you in private practice, public service, business, and government. With continued effort and focus you can earn a good living and be a difference maker.

However, only you can decide how to live and what you want to accomplish with your career. President Kennedy said, "To whom much is given, much is expected." Likewise, Luke the Evangelist wrote, "When someone has been given much, much will be required in return." Luke 12:48. So, think big, aim high, and realize your potential.

That being said, don't get too full of yourself because you still have a lot to learn and there is no substitute for actual experience. Be patient, humble, and pay your dues. The key to success is earning the confidence of others through sustained effort, professional growth, and high achievement over an extended period of time.

Diligently protect your reputation by being honest and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety. Having good character and a reputation for fairness will serve you well. Don't say or do anything that you wouldn't say or do in front of your mother, your boss, a journalist, or the sheriff. Likewise, be careful what you post, say, or do on the internet. Social media is a double-edged sword. You can avoid scandal, prison, heartache, and disbarment by following this simple advice.

People notice how you treat others, including the janitor, your paralegal, and opposing counsel. Show respect to everyone and be plain-spoken. Make it a habit to introduce yourself and network with a purpose.

Do you want to be a successful trial lawyer? Visit your local courthouse and observe how skilled lawyers and judges handle hearings and trials. Screen out and eliminate bad cases up front. Outwork your opponents, don't overreach, and adopt a style suitable to your personality.

Great trial lawyers are great storytellers! Tell simple, direct, and memorable...