Hearing vs. Trial

I had a hearing this week.

Afterwards, my husband exclaimed: that was not a hearing, it was a trial. You always downplay what you do.

Okay: I had a full day evidentiary hearing, or bench trial, this week.

For the first time in my career, I walked in without nerves.

Yes, I still sat in my car reading my argument outline and other notes before the hearing.

But, those gut wrenching, all consuming nerves I usually have? Nowhere to be seen.

I even forgot to write my name, firm, and client at the top of my legal pad (you, know, to remind myself of these things for initial appearances).

I felt confident in my preparation (if I have nothing else, I always have over preparation) and I felt comfortable with my client and our positions.

Opposing counsel and I took three witnesses, I made evidentiary objections, took questions from a sometimes hot bench, and argued the law (and facts).

It was so fun. I loved it, so, so much.

There is an ongoing debate about whether litigators are trial lawyers.

My answer? All trial lawyers are litigators. Not all litigators are trial lawyers.

I am always a litigator and often a trial lawyer. It happens less for most of us in big law, but still: I know how it works, and can handle myself, standing on my own two legs, with confidence and comfortability.

Looking forward to honing this muscle more and more as my practice--and seniority--grows.

🔥♥️✌🏻