The holiday season is here, and Seattle Trademark Lawyer, Michael Atkins, has some simple, well-phrased, and timely advice for attorneys (and people too!):

Don’t be a jerk.

It’s that simple.

A big part of professionalism is common courtesy.

I’m no expert, but I know being a lawyer is so much more fun and rewarding when the jerk factor’s at a minimum.

Showing respect. Accommodating schedules. Cooperating in discovery. Having a sense of humor.

A side benefit is all this conveys strength. If you’re in the power position, it’s easy to be magnanimous. If the facts or law aren’t on your side, it’s tempting to be shrill. So fake it with kindness and you look like you’re holding the winning hand.

Happy Hanukkah.   Merry Christmas.

Don’t be a jerk.