Citizens Quote by John Quincy Adams
“The mere title of lawyer is sufficient to deprive a man of the public confidence. ... The most innocent and irreproachable life cannot guard a lawyer against the hatred of his fellow citizens.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Private correspondence, 1815
The title of lawyer erodes public trust, despite personal virtue.
In simple terms: Lawyers often lose public confidence.
Earn trust through integrity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal practice
- public service
- community relations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can lawyers rebuild public confidence?
- What responsibilities do lawyers have to society?
Not all lawyers are distrusted; context matters.