Clarence Darrow

Developing the Next Generation of Rainmakers Clarence Darrow-He Inspired Me to Become a Lawyer I remember when and why I decided I wanted to become a lawyer. I was in eighth grade and, already a fan of biographies (and I remain one to this day), I purchased a book called The Story of My Life  an autobiography written by Clarence Darrow, an outspoken opponent of capital punishment, an advocate for civil rights, and proponent for the teaching of evolution.   (I still have the book today, its $.1.95 price tag clearly visible.) Brilliant, witty, profound and genuine, Darrow inspired me with words that still resonate with passion nearly eight decades after his death. He also taught me to think and to question things others did not question. Many of us entered the legal profession full of fight and hope that we could reform the world and make it a better place. We also wanted to help the oppressed. We learned we could not do those things working for a law firm helping corporations. Yet, opportunities exist to make a difference through pro bono work and through many bar association activities. Even when we are helping corporations, we are helping the people who own stock and the people who work for the company. Think about what motivated you to become a lawyer and find ways to do as much of it as possible.   I practiced law for 37 years developing a national construction law practice representing some of the top highway and transportation construction contractors in the US.