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How To Argue A Career In Jonathan Harr's A Civil Action

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Sitting in a small café in Maryland, I opened the cover of A Civil Action by Jonathan Harr and began to read the first page. At the time, I had no real intention of even finishing the book but was trying to work “reading for pleasure” into my routine. My freshman year of college had turned reading into a chore more than anything. Thankfully, over time, I learned to embrace and combine reading for both knowledge and pleasure. Now, before I go any further, I must admit that I was unaware a movie-version existed. Although John Travolta’s character was often referenced in classes on how “not” to negotiate, even to this day, I cannot say I’ve ever watched the film.
What I was not expecting, was for the book to captivate my imagination and professional …show more content…

It’s not always case-breaking finds at one o’clock in the morning, exhilarating oral arguments or massive jury trials. Instead, days are spent crafting discovery plans, drafting and editing briefs, receiving criticism from colleagues, outlining arguments and reading filings from opposing parties all while trying to balance the multitude of other aspects of daily life. A Civil Action addressed this truth. It addressed the financial difficulties certain career paths can take and also addressed the effects a legal career can have on personal relationships. It is, of course, difficult to generalize the application of one story to the entire field, but a realistic understanding is more useful than ideas of grandeur. Knowing this reality prior to really beginning my undergraduate career allowed me to remain focused, develop the skills I needed, and maintain a realistic understanding of how to prepare for law school. Every class I completed, every group I participated in and every job I’ve held has been in furtherance of my goals to become an attorney. This lesson from A Civil Action helped provide a necessary …show more content…

Two large corporations were alleged to have dumped the hazardous waste causing leukemia in numerous victims. Throughout the book, Schlichtmann must educate himself on the industries he is challenging, on cancer-causing chemicals, and on the tort law involved. Although experts are brought into the mix by both sides, there is a heavy responsibility on the individual attorneys to learn about and understand their cases sufficient enough to argue their perspectives. Although some may see this aspect of a legal career as daunting, I see it as a continuously rewarding challenge. Each case presents a unique puzzle with its own set of variables, rules, participants and setbacks. In addition, each case requires the attorney to learn new things. It is the aspect of continuous learning that I find most interesting.
The lessons taught by A Civil Action were influential in directing me towards a legal career. Although there are many other factors and variables involved in this decision, I would be remiss to ignore the impact of this story. A Civil Action is just one story throughout the past seven years that has influenced my decision to pursue a legal career. Reading this story changed the way that I viewed the law and changed the way that I viewed my course of study. I continue to appreciate those few days I spent sitting in a café in Maryland, reacquiring my love

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