The Hazards of Being a Lawyer

Image from Gunwatch Blog 

I'm not a lawyer yet, but, I am fully aware of the dangers posed by this profession to its members. If you are a lawyer, it is better to be ready for any harm that could come your way any moment.

Earlier this evening, I saw a news snippet running on the television screen about a hostage-taking incident gone awry which unfortunately resulted to the death of the hostage victim who happens to be a lawyer. The bloody incident happened in San Juan City. Immediately, my mind played a host of possibilities and generated possible scenarios on why and how that deadly turn of events started.

It is really disheartening to hear news about lawyers getting caught in the middle of two factions or worst, end up six feet under the ground. Being a lawyer is similar to being in the police force or army because literally, you are in the line of fire. Standing in the middle of two opposing sides multiplies that risk tenfold.

Self-defense training, anyone?

Living a dangerous existence is part of the hazards of being a lawyer.  There have been many instances when lawyers get involved in the 'crossfire', or in feuds that they have really nothing to do with except by being the counsel of one of the opposing parties. If I may recall, there was a shooting in one of the courts in Cebu which ended the life of a lawyer and a judge, then another incident involving lawyer(s) who accompanied the Manggudadato party, and many other instances. 

I think it does not really matter if you are concentrating in family law or criminal law. Ironically, self-defense as a skill is not part of the curriculum in law school. 
 It may sound funny but I really think a class on self-defense and combat would be of great help for lawyers-to-be. After all, self-defense as a subject comprises a major part of the Criminal Law subject. Defending oneself would be a skill any lawyer will fine useful because you never really know when the battle between words and pleading can turn ugly. 

It might be a couple of years more before I become one but realizing the dangers this profession poses, you bet I better start training early. How about you, are you ready to be part of the legal profession?