However, the human dimension remains the cornerstone of the relationship between a lawyer and their client.
A client only turns to a lawyer when facing a crisis or a threat to their wealth, freedom, or reputation. Therefore, the client’s needs are not limited to purely legal advice but also extend to psychological support and human compassion.
Treating the client with a high degree of humanity means the lawyer must recognize that they are dealing first and foremost with a human being, not just a file or a case, and treat them with respect and dignity regardless of their social status or the size of their case.
This humanity is reflected in attentively listening to the client’s concerns, acknowledging their suffering, and providing honest and clear legal advice, free from complexity or exploitation.Moreover, humane treatment strengthens the mutual trust that is fundamental to a successful relationship between the lawyer and their client.
A client who feels that their lawyer values their feelings and keeps their secrets will be more cooperative in providing information and more committed to following guidance, which positively affects the outcome of the case. Ethically, showing empathy and compassion does not contradict firmness and professionalism; rather, it embodies the true essence of the legal profession as a mission to defend and protect people.It is clear that the human dimension has a direct impact on the image of the profession as a whole.
A lawyer who deals with clients in a cold, strictly legal manner may be seen as merely performing a formal duty, while a lawyer who combines legal expertise with humanity establishes a positive image of the legal profession as a pillar of justice and human dignity.The importance of dealing with clients with high humanity lies in the fact that it is not a mere additional option but an essential commitment.
It reflects the honor of the profession and restores its true luster. Law without humanity may become a dry tool, but when combined with compassion and respect, it truly becomes a means to achieve the desired justice.
Omar SaqrLegal Advisor – Member of the Arab Lawyers Union