About 7 months ago, I was a semester away from graduation in a field of study that Forbes ranked as this year’s ninth worst college major: history. Since then, I registered for and took the February LSAT, submitted applications and essays to several law schools, finished a rigorous final semester course load, graduated, accepted my admittance to the University of South Carolina School of Law, and began working as an intern at Anderson Law.
Perhaps I am a bit biased in my opinion, but I’ve come to believe that the study of the law is the noblest of professions.
First, the practice of law settles conflict peacefully. In the majority of cases I have been involved in, I can honestly say that I’ve been able to see both sides of the dispute. In hindsight, it is much easier to analyze a particular disagreement and come to a conclusion as to what is most just; however, in the moment it is often less clear. Most cases I’ve worked with have been settled or will be settled outside of court through negotiation or arbitration. The nobility of the practice of law is evident when two parties of a dispute sit across from one another at a conference table and arrive at a settlement peacefully.
Second, the practice of law provides help to those who are not able to help themselves. Many of the clients that I have helped are ill-equipped to deal with the intricacies of navigating our country’s legal system. They have jobs, families, and other responsibilities in their busy lives. Beyond having to deal with the stress of everyday life, these people are also forced to simultaneously cope with the physical and emotional duress accompanied with their unfortunate accident or loss. Our justice system would be anything but just if these people were left to themselves to resolve their own legal matters. It is an honor to assist people in pursuing all the necessary legal avenues to ensure that in the business and relationships of life they are guaranteed justice and equity in a court of law.
I must admit that throughout the course of my incredibly busy final semester of college I was sometimes skeptical of my decision to become an attorney. As I have returned home to Kennewick and have been privileged to intern at Anderson Law, however, much of my anxiety has subsided. In the short couple of months I have been working as an intern, I feel much more confident in my decision to become an attorney.
Stephen B. Mickelsen, future esquire
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