Colleagues Quote by John Mortimer
“Never shake hands with colleagues in court; the customers think you're making deals.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Rumpole of the Bailey, 1978
In legal settings, physical gestures like handshakes can be misinterpreted as informal deals, so avoid them.
In simple terms: Don’t shake hands in court to keep professionalism.
Key Takeaway
Maintain clear professional boundaries.
Themes
professionalism
court etiquette
perception
trust
communication
Mood
cautious
formal
Type
ethical
practical
When to use this quote
- courtroom interactions
- client meetings
- law firm culture
Key Concepts
Legal ethics
client relations
boundary setting
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you convey respect without handshakes?
- What alternatives can you use?
A Different Perspective
Some cultures view handshakes as respectful; context matters.
![“Take sex, for instance.' 'What do you want me to do with it?' 'Try to be serious for a moment. Take the sex life of our father.' [...] Even after a couple of brandies he felt extremely reluctant to discuss sex and his father. 'It's something I'd rather not think about,' he said. 'We all come into…” quote by John Mortimer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/280/john-mortimer-7362_conception_take-sex-for-instance-what-do-you-want-m_4946.jpg)
