By Paul C. Ray, 2024 CCBA President
Why do bad things happen to good people? It’s an age-old question, and it can be hard to understand. Our hearts go out to the victims of the recent tragedy in our legal community. It makes you think about what is important.
Why do we do what we do, and how should we be doing it? My legal ethics professor in law school touched me with his explanation. He said most people have some kind of hero, whether you are atheist, religious, or agnostic. Whether it be the death row inmate or the losing party in a civil case, each person needs a heroic advocate in the face of great difficulty. As lawyers, we can each be our own kind of heroic advocate.
I take comfort in my hero and savior, Jesus Christ, of whom the Bible says He is the Lord, the Resurrection, and the Life. One of my favorite Christian teachings of comfort is: “In my Father’s house are many mansions. . . . I go to prepare a place for you.” I am grateful that we all have the freedom to seek comfort where we choose. I hope you will share with me some time the teachings of comfort by one of your heroes.
We know that legal ethics are guideposts for heroic advocacy. We also know that our best selves extend beyond ethical rules and opinions. We can also be counselors and help our clients be their best selves. Many times, we can settle differences. We can be civil and kind. We can share a smile with those who need it.
Thank you for what you do. As lawyers, you advocate for justice, and you heroically help solve problems.
About the author
Paul C. Ray serves as President of the Clark County Bar Association for 2024. Paul practices business and real estate litigation and appeals at his firm, Paul C. Ray, Chtd.
About the article
© 2024 Clark County Bar Association (CCBA). All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher. Editorial policy available upon request.
This article was originally published in the Communiqué (May. 2024), the official publication of the Clark County Bar Association. See https://clarkcountybar.org/about/member-benefits/communique-2024/communique-may-2024.
The articles and advertisements appearing in Communiqué magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the CCBA, the CCBA Publications Committee, the editorial board, or the other authors. All legal and other issues discussed are not for the purpose of answering specific legal questions. Attorneys and others are strongly advised to independently research all issues.