Mitch’s blog this week, about the truth, brought back a deep-rooted memory for me. It was a memory that I learned from and carried with me throughout my career.

As a young attorney I was in the midst of one of my first oral arguments before a certain judge. I even remember his name and what it felt like to be conducting the argument in his vast courtroom. 

During my argument, the judge asked me a question. I began to answer his question, stating, "To be honest with you judge. . ." The judge stopped me immediately and said “Why would you say that? Aren't you always honest with me? Am I to assume that there are times that you are not honest with me?"

This occurred in a courtroom packed with other attorneys and, for several moments I was flustered. I recovered quickly, however, confidently told the judge he can trust that I would only tell him the truth and answered his question.

In leaving the courtroom I was very upset about that exchange. I realized later that the judge was trying to teach me a lesson.  He was trying to teach me that I need to project, always, that I everything I say in a courtroom is credible. I have never used the phrase, “to be honest with you,” ever again in a courtroom. Most importantly, I have learned to ensure that everything I represent in a courtroom is credible.

What early lessons have you learned in your career that have stuck with you?