Lessons I’ve Learned from Clients
Shawn A. DeVries, J.D., M.B.A.
Client Focused Attorney ★ Energetic Management Consultant ★ Visionary Entrepreneur & Leader
In my years of practice, one of the most rewarding aspects of being an attorney has been the lessons I’ve learned from my clients. Every case I handle teaches me something new—not only about the law but about human resilience, vulnerability, and hope.
Clients come to me with different stories, each one filled with unique struggles and challenges. Some are facing a difficult divorce, others are planning for the future through estate planning, and some are dealing with the burden of financial hardship. Despite the variety of cases, one thing remains constant: every client wants to be heard, understood, and supported.
The most powerful lessons I’ve learned is the importance of empathy. Often, clients come to me at some of the lowest points in their lives. They’re dealing with personal turmoil, uncertainty, and fear. Whether it’s a family dispute, the loss of a loved one, or financial distress, the emotional toll is real. Listening without judgment and offering not only legal expertise but also emotional support is crucial. It’s easy to focus on the facts of a case, but I’ve come to understand that behind those facts are real people with real emotions. Taking the time to truly understand where they’re coming from has been one of the most valuable skills I’ve developed over the years.
I’ve learned is the power of trust. In the legal field, trust isn’t just important—it’s essential. Clients need to feel that they can rely on their attorney to look out for their best interests. That trust is built through consistent, clear communication and transparency. One of the best things a client can do is ask questions and get involved in their case. The more they trust the process, the better the outcome tends to be. The reciprocal trust I build with my clients allows me to represent them more effectively and offers them peace of mind during what can often be a stressful time.
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Clients also teach me about resilience. I’ve seen firsthand how people face seemingly insurmountable challenges with determination. Many clients come to me feeling like they’re in a situation with no way out, whether that’s dealing with overwhelming debt, a broken relationship, or complicated family matters. But what I’ve come to admire is their ability to adapt, adjust, and rise above adversity. They remind me that, no matter how difficult the journey may seem, there’s always a path forward.
They have taught me the importance of perspective. Everyone’s situation is different, and what might seem like a simple decision to one person could be life-altering to another. I’ve learned to approach every case with fresh eyes, remembering that the outcome of each decision will affect my clients' futures in significant ways.
In the end, my clients are my greatest teachers. They’ve shown me the importance of empathy, trust, resilience, and perspective, which I carry with me into every case I handle.