It’s tough to get to court early. Usually, it entails getting out bed earlier, and that doesn’t appeal to anyone I know. The benefits of arriving early, however, outweigh the difficulties of hitting the shower while it’s still dark.
What are the benefits of being the early bird?
Here are ten:
1. You can talk to other family law attorneys, build your relationships, and generate referrals of conflicts, mediations, etc. Inevitably, you won’t be the only early bird. Others will be hanging out, waiting, drinking coffee, and chatting. It’s a great time to get to know these lawyers without the pressure that comes when things get rolling.
2. You can hang out with the judges in chambers. Early in my career, I spent many mornings sticking my head in chambers, getting invited in, and then chatting about things. I learned a tremendous amount from those casual encounters. Lots of judges are seriously social animals and are thrilled to have someone to talk to. You’ll end up gaining tremendous experience just listening to the stories the judges love to tell. More than learning, you’ll build trusting relationships with your judges. These relationships make a tremendous difference when you’re trying cases.
3. You can get to know the clerks and bailiffs. They are a great feedback mechanism. They’ll know how your case is going before you do. Get to know these people so they’ll give you feedback. Additionally, you want these people on your side. I’ve personally witnessed judges asking the clerks and bailiffs for opinions when deciding cases.
4. You can get comfortable with the setting. Getting there early allows you to move around the courtroom and relax. Get a feel for the room, and you’ll feel more relaxed. Make the room your home away from home so you feel like you own it.
5. You can talk to your clients and help them get comfortable. Ask your clients to come early sometimes and help them understand the room. Put them up on the witness stand so they can get a feel for that seat. Help them overcome their anxiety about the place.
6. You can meet other lawyers from other practice areas. Other lawyers will be around the courthouse, and you’ll meet them. That connection fosters referrals. Get to know as many lawyers as you can. That’s always a win/win.
7. You can answer questions for people in the hall. I’ve generated some business in the elevator and in the hallway when I answer that “Are you a lawyer?” question with the right answer.
8. You can review your notes and think about your case. It’s never too late to continue your preparation. Getting there early gives you time to flip through your notes and make sure you didn’t miss anything. If you’ve forgotten to bring something with you, it’s not too late to call and have someone bring it down.
9. You can avoid being smushed in the elevator with smelly criminal defendants. Seriously, courthouse elevators get crowded, and I’ve never smelled body odor anywhere else that compares to courthouse body odor. I’m not sure whether it’s the people or the stress, but wow, it can stink.
10. You can ask questions of other lawyers, listen to their conversations, and learn a thing or two. Listening to other lawyers exposes you to scenarios you might not have thought of on your own. You’ll hear interesting fact patterns you haven’t heard before (you can’t make this stuff up), and you’ll get a sense of how they’re planning to deal with things in their hearing. You’ll also pick up some insight into your judges along with who knows what else.
How to do it? Well, you need to leave early and get on down to the courthouse. I could give you all kinds of tips on getting out of the house earlier than usual, but you can figure that stuff out for yourself. The key here is to see the value in arriving early. These ten benefits more than warrant the effort. It’s worth your time to get organized and get out earlier than usual at least some of the time. So get out of bed and get moving.
