Average Quote by Fred Rodell
“The Lawyers' trade is a trade built entirely on words. And so long as the lawyers carefully keep to themselves the key to what those words mean, the only way the average man can find out what is going on is to become a lawyer, or at least to study law, himself. All of which makes it very nice -- and very secure -- for the lawyers.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Being a Lawyer, 1950
Lawyers control information by mastering language, making it hard for non‑lawyers to understand or challenge legal matters.
In simple terms: Lawyers hide meaning in words, keeping power.
Key Takeaway
Learn basic legal language to protect yourself.
Themes
law
power
communication
access
knowledge
Mood
skeptical
critical
inquisitive
Type
advice
analytical
educational
When to use this quote
- reading contracts
- self‑representation
- public policy debates
- media reporting
Key Concepts
legalese
information asymmetry
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How can ordinary people gain meaningful insight into legal language?
- What responsibilities do lawyers have to demystify their jargon?
A Different Perspective
Complex legal systems can still be opaque despite simplification efforts.
