Adv Barry Roux, made famous for his role in high-profile cases such as those of Roger Kebble and Oscar Pistorius, shared valuable advice with these aspiring attorneys and advocates.
It’s not about you
He urged students to remember that they are representing their clients. “When you realise that, all the nervousness will subside,” said Adv Roux. “It is not about you, it is about your client. You are only there to do a job.” He continued to say that one can only do one’s best and that that means being well-prepared. He suggested discussing cases with a trusted colleague as a soundboard.
Adv Roux encouraged the law students to always listen carefully to what the client is saying, and then carefully consider what the law stipulates. He also advised them to rather think about a case than to give immediate advice. “Get as much facts as you can, but don’t try to resolve it immediately; give yourself time.”
On doing your homework
“Don’t ever go to court without doing your case research,” said Adv Roux adding that it is better to disclose any cases that may make a point against the case you are trying to win. He reckons that it is better to do so pro-actively as a matter of integrity and a safeguard against the opponent who is hoping to shoot your case down based on such cases against you.
“Let me comfort you,” concluded Adv Roux, “you will win some and you will lose some. You will come to know that sick feeling inside when you know you could have won, but you lost instead.” He motivated the students to see losses as experience and to use their mistakes as building blocks for growth. He finally urged them to understand that the profession is only a part of them. “It is not all of you. Make sure that you leave time for the other things in your life.”
Adv Barry Roux
