Angela Walker – July 2017
- Kindness is key. Kindness to other litigants, kindness to other lawyers, kindness to court staff. The dynamics between parties and lawyers is very visible.
- I notice the entire courtroom. It is striking how often body language, hair twirling, moans, groans, or snickers stand out to me. They are very distracting.
- Preparation makes the world of difference. Regardless if someone has a lawyer or not, good preparation is key in presenting a strong case.
- Patience is critical. As someone who has historically struggled with patience, this job has been the best teacher. Listening and understanding takes incredible focus and patience.
- Show me the way. I used to think advocacy required something more dramatic. But as I sit and listen to evidence, what I am most interested in is how these facts apply to the law so that I can reach a decision.
- Our court staff, from clerks to sheriffs are unbelievably helpful and dedicated.
- Assume I will read everything but don’t assume I have read everything. I do my best to read everything in the files prior to starting a session but this is not always possible because of circumstance.
- Memory is imperfect. While I understood this before from my legal practice, I see it more clearly in this work. Two individuals can experience the exact same event and have an entirely different recollection in speaking their truth.
- Lawyers are incredibly helpful. I have had the privilege of hearing a number of lawyers present cases on behalf of their clients and I am consistently reminded of the importance of legal work.
- The court houses in Annapolis Royal and Digby are magical. If you ever have the chance to check them out, you should!