Believe Quote by Anthony Trollope
“I never believe anything that a lawyer says when he has a wig on his head and a fee in his hand. I prepare myself beforehand to regard it all as mere words, supplied at so much the thousand. I know he'll say whatever he thinks most likely to forward his own views.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Way We Live Now, Anthony Trollope, 1875
The speaker warns that lawyers may tailor arguments to serve their own interests, so their words should be taken with skepticism.
In simple terms: Lawyers may speak to benefit themselves, not truth.
Key Takeaway
Treat legal statements critically.
Themes
skepticism
law
persuasion
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
advice
cautionary
When to use this quote
- contract negotiations
- court testimony
- legal advice
- client consultations
Key Concepts
legal rhetoric
self‑interest
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify a lawyer’s claim?
- When might a lawyer’s advice be trustworthy?
A Different Perspective
Lawyers can also provide essential advocacy and protect rights, so blanket distrust may be harmful.
