Assignment 16: The Interview

For this assignment, we had to choose someone to interview at our internship. I chose to interview Mr. James Hamilton, a criminal lawyer at the firm. This is how the interview went:

1. What inspired you to become a lawyer?

Mr. Hamilton told me that he's had many different jobs in the past but had a desire to be able to work as long as he wants and to be able to have a job that kept his brain active. So he became a lawyer.

I found his response very refreshing because it was honest. He didn't have the typical response of wanting to "help people and make a change". Don't get me wrong here, that reason is a valid reason itself but it was nice to here something different. But this by no means, means that Mr. Hamilton doesn't do what he does for just himself. In fact, he constantly mentioned that he does what he does for people everywhere.

2. What did you do after law school?

Mr. Hamilton responded that he started practicing law straight out of law school.

This was reassuring to hear because as a student interested in law, I feared that I wouldn't be practicing right out of school, but after hearing Mr. Hamilton talk about his experience I felt encouraged.

3. What do you remember about your first case?

Mr. Hamilton said that the main thing he remembers is nerves. He said that he was very nervous and he was trying his hardest to give it all he had and to make no mistakes.

Hearing him say this reminded me of the times I had important presentations and felt the same way. It was a very relatable type of thing.

4. What was your hardest case?

Mr. Hamilton responded by saying that all of his hardest cases are child molestation cases. He said that they were hard because once the jury heard the charges against the client the mood changes and he could feel "heat beams" on him and the client. Mr. Hamilton went on to explain how from that moment it was not only the client that was hated but the lawyer too. But that of course does not discourage him. He said that "everyone one needs to understand that they are people and everyone deserves their right to be represented".

To me it has always been hard to understand criminal defense lawyers that defended people who have been accused of horrible crimes. But I can definitely say that after hearing Mr. Hamilton explain everything I have a totally different point of view on it. Mr. Hamilton is completely right when he says everyone has the right to be represented.

5. Have you had a case where you got emotionally invested?

Mr. Hamilton responded that he has had many cases where he's gotten emotionally affected but he tries to not let cases affect him. He said "you have to be clear and objective to represent your client zealously".

After hearing the many harsh cases he's had, I can only imagine how hard it is to not let anything affect you and your ability to represent someone. But in order to represent someone fairly it only makes sense to be objective.

6. As a lawyer, do you think it is okay to let your emotions drive you?

Mr. Hamilton responded by saying that "you try not to but it's part of being human". He said that emotions clouded your judgment and make you lose your control in court.

After talking about this it became very clear that having control is very important. And by control, I mean control of one's self. Mr. Hamilton also said its important to talk to your clients and make sure they keep their emotions in control during court too.

7. Are you happy with the career you have chosen?

Mr. Hamilton said that he loves his career.

After hearing all about how harsh and tough this career can be Mr. Hamilton went on to say that he loves his career and wouldn't change it for the world. Words can't describe how passionate and dedicated Mr. Hamilton is to his practice and law in general.

8. Does your work ever come home with you?

Mr. Hamilton said the one thing to do is to never take this type of job how with you. You do not want to burden your family. In this line of work, you see and hear harsh things, so never take those home with you. He said that you have to try and put all that evilness you see, away into a safe spot and to not let anyone see it.

I completely agree with this. As only an intern, I have already heard about some awful things and I would never want to burden my family with that.

9. What is difficult when having to defend someone who has been accused guilty?

Mr. Hamilton said the hardest thing is minimizing the damage. He says he does everything he can to get the deal best fit for his client.

This question was answered mostly though other responses. Listening to his responses has shown me all that comes with defending someone accused guilty and I can only wish to be able to do that one day too.

10. What are some of your tactics in court?

Mr. Hamilton said being prepared is key. Knowing all your facts, and being calm and collected is the way to do things right.

This was yet another relatable moment because these are the steps I take when giving a presentation.

Overall, I feel that this interview went great! I had a fun time learning more about Mr. Hamilton's experiences and the law!