The most successful cases are often the result of the right chemistry between a client and his or her lawyer. Knowing his lawyer is important for a prospective client.
With this in mind, I decided to write something about myself – in the form of a self-interview – to give the reader some insight into me and into the way I practice law.
Why highlight your INTJ personality type as a lawyer?
As major life events often result from interactions with others, it is important to find the right personalities to navigate difficult situations, such as those involving litigation or pre-litigation.
Finding yourself in a litigious or pre-litigious situation – which generally goes hand in hand, for those who find themselves confronted with it, with a situation of discomfort and stress – requires surrounding oneself with the personalities best suited to the difficulties encountered.
In such circumstances, selecting a lawyer who inspires trust and has an empathetic personality is crucial.
While technical skills are essential for lawyers, personality traits play a crucial role in achieving the desired outcome in litigation or pre-litigation cases.
Given the rarity of INTJ personality types, this information is particularly noteworthy when selecting a lawyer for certain types of litigation or pre-litigation cases.
Why haven’t you continued to practice in large law firms?
Certain types of cases – in particular for natural persons, in the context of family conflicts or quite simply to better control costs – require to be handled by a lawyer with a high professional standard who is not part of the large structures of the place.
Individual practice also offers a flexibility and independence in the way of working that is particularly suitable for certain situations and certain clients.
Sensitive cases handled by a lawyer also require absolute discretion since they often involve private or confidential information that could have severe consequences if made public. Clients may be concerned about discretion in large law firms because these firms often have many employees who may have access to confidential information.
Additionally, large firms may have a reputation for being less personalized and more focused on billable hours, which can create a sense of distance between the client and the lawyer handling their case. As a result, clients may prefer smaller firms or solo practitioners who can offer more personalized attention and a greater level of discretion.
Is it possible to practice law, take a break and come back to it?
I have never considered my professional life as a standardized and linear exercise and any conventional vision is foreign to me.
My philosophy is to do what you know you are most capable of and what you love the most at a given moment in life.
My entrepreneurial spirit takes me where I know I will be the most efficient, the most creative and the most competent.
What is your way of working?
My work approach is influenced by two main factors.
The first is my frequent travel as part of my professional engagements, often spanning different time zones. This requires me to have a meticulous organizational system. I find video conferencing particularly useful in such situations.
The second factor is my INTJ personality, which necessitates spending adequate time alone and in a peaceful environment to tackle the issues entrusted to me by my clients.
Despite this, I am always available to communicate with them even on weekends, in case of any emergency situations
I am always available to discuss with them on weekends when any kind of emergency requires to do so.
How important is international practice to you?
International practice is very important to me since it allows me to work with clients from all over the world and handle complex cases that involve multiple jurisdictions.
It also allows me to stay up to date with the latest developments in private international law, which is a fascinating and constantly evolving field.
Being able to think globally and understand the nuances of different legal systems is crucial for providing effective legal representation to clients with cross-border issues.
Additionally, working internationally helps me to broaden my perspective and learn about different cultures and ways of doing business.
What is your conception of the role of the lawyer?
A lawyer must above all be a “problem solver”, the client does not come to see a counsel to hear what is prohibited, he comes to see him to find solutions.
This attitude of mind seems decisive to me. Unfortunately, it is not shared by all.
What is your conception of the role of judges?
The judges are, for the most part, competent lawyers who exercise a difficult profession with limited resources.
It is absolutely essential to present them with clear, structured files and, of course, all the legal arguments that can convince them of the merits of the client’s position.
What is your conception of the procedure?
The procedure, particularly in civil matters and in the presence of a foreign element, has become complex and it is essential to master it perfectly.
It is also an integral part of the strategy of a case, whether in demand or in defense.
How are your services billed?
My principle is that an intellectual service must be remunerated for the added value it creates.
I only agree to deal with a case when I believe I can create strong added value.
The client should not see his lawyer as a cost center but as a partner in solving his problems.