While I am not much of a t.v. watcher (especially since I began law school) I happened to catch a short glimpse of a show on etiquette a couple of days ago.  I did not watch the entire episode but did happen to catch the part about language.  According to the segment, “swear words” are considered very poor etiquette.

This should come as no surprise really, and I have always adhered to the belief that swearing makes you sound ignorant; like you cannot think of any more appropriate words to convey your thoughts.  You may come from a family that swears.  You may have friends that swear.  You may even swear yourself.  But remember one thing: you will be counseling clients someday.  When they are sitting in your office how will you speak to them?  Your speech will reflect a lot of who you are and your professional attitude.

When you are drafting a brief or addressing a judge will you use profanity?  When the judge overrules your objection will you reply by saying s**t?  Or will you say thank you your honor?  Will you say in your brief that opposing counsel’s position is d**n nonsense?  If you value your reputation you won’t.  No, you will be polite and use intelligent, well thought out language and words.

Why should your everyday conversation be any different?  The answer is simple; it should not.  Don’t let yourself get caught putting a bad taste in a client’s (or future client’s) mouth.  Keep your language and speech professional at all times.  If you get angry (and you will) control yourself and your language.

As a final note, this is not a preaching sermon on profane language.  It is also not to say that you are a “bad” person if you swear (who am I to judge others?).  But we should always remember that as lawyers (eventually) we will not only represent ourselves but our clients as well.  How do you want to be perceived as a legal professional, and how will your client be perceived for choosing you as counsel?  Proper etiquette demands proper speech and language.  God Bless and have a great day.