Jim Vickaryous

Thanksgiving gives us all an opportunity to take time to think about what we appreciate.  Recently, I welcomed my 30th year of being a lawyer.  It got me thinking, what was going through the minds of my clients in my early years when they hired a young and unexperienced lawyer?  I was still finding my footing and learning the ropes in the initial years of my career as a lawyer.  I am grateful and deeply thankful for each and every client that hired the young and inexperienced me.  What they didn’t get with regard to experience, I tried to make up for in enthusiasm and hard work.  Without all of those wonderful people that gave me their problems to deal with, I would not be the experienced lawyer I am today.  With over three decades in the legal profession, my journey has been adorned with invaluable lessons, meaningful relationships, and a deep sense of gratitude.  I find myself drawn to the elements that have shaped my thankfulness:  the trust of clients, the enduring professionalism within our field, the benevolence of the judiciary, and the indispensable contributions of non-lawyers.

I remember an early client very clearly, like it was yesterday.  She was a very nice woman who had a matter that was on the trial docket in Broward County.  She didn’t think she had much of a chance of winning.  I thought I could pull it off and told her, no guarantees, but I would try to win.  I remember walking out the door of the courthouse after losing the trial.  I was uncharacteristically silent (losing a trial has a horrible way of shutting you up).  I felt someone gently grab my hand.  I looked up and it was my client, smiling.  She told me not to take it badly, “I just needed someone like you representing me today – Thank you.”  Many clients will surprise you with their own gratitude.