Because of the nature of their profession, lawyers are frequently miscategorized as heartless, unemotional and dull. In his new book, "The Art of Practicing Law: Talking to Clients, Colleagues and Others," James M. Kramon seeks to dispel these hackneyed stereotypes and unveil an aspect of the profession that the public is rarely privy to.
"The Art of Practicing Law" is a collection of stories centered around Kramon's experience working with many different types of people in his capacity as a lawyer. Drawing from cases big and small, complex and simple, criminal and civil, he explores the most interesting and evocative interactions of his career and the profound impact they've had on his life.
Through these short vignettes, Kramon also demonstrates that, despite the exciting and high-profile cases many lawyers may see throughout their career, the most powerful memories often stem from the minute or otherwise humdrum moments. Whether through commonplace client meetings-attempting to help a rural sheriff conquer his fear of testifying in his own defense-or more unusual encounters such as his meeting with the notorious Governor George Wallace in his hospital room after he was shot and paralyzed, Kramon demonstrates that no moment is too small or inconsequential to leave a lasting impact.
"The most interesting, enlightening and moving events in the legal profession are often unplanned and not connected with celebrity or publicity," said Kramon. "The publicity afforded to legal cases often fails to involve the intimate and human aspects of lawyers' work, and that is where the true meaning of this work lies."
An intriguing, behind-the-scenes look at everyday life as a lawyer, "The Art of Practicing Law" draws attention to the intrinsic humanity of lawyers and the ways in which they can be emotionally affected by their clients and others.
"The Art of Practicing Law: Talking to Clients, Colleagues and Others" by James M. Kramon is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu
