Our Professionalism Spotlight series highlights Illinois legal professionals who demonstrate the ideals of professionalism in their careers and a commitment to equitable, efficient, and effective justice.
In this Professionalism Spotlight, we spoke to Josh Rohrscheib, Founder and Managing Attorney of Onward Injury Law, which has locations throughout central Illinois.
As a personal injury lawyer, Josh said he finds this work particularly fulfilling because he helps people through some of the most difficult chapters of their lives.
How do you remain civil in tense situations?
It helps to begin with the end goal in mind and to look for common ground. Losing your temper rarely makes a situation better or a lawyer more effective. Maintaining control of your emotions, trying to see matters from your opponent’s perspective, and making every effort to be exhaustively kind drives better results.
When I find myself becoming a little quick to anger, I turn to two resources that help me stay grounded. The first is “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie—a must-read for every lawyer. I revisit it a few times a year, and it helps me focus on others and summon up a little more empathy.
The second is “This is Water” by David Foster Wallace, who lived in central Illinois. It reminds me that we have the power to choose how we interpret and process the world around us.
For instance, an adversary’s unreasonable aggression might stem from personal struggles. Considering that possibility can help you react with patience and grace instead of anger.
What is an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law?
It starts with honesty. Clients deserve to know the truth, even when it’s not what they want to hear. Being transparent about the legal process, setting realistic expectations, and following through with integrity helps build trust.
Our clients are perceptive and their confidence in lawyers is tied to how [lawyers] think about the people we serve. One way to build confidence is to view clients as friends and neighbors.
A lawyer I admire very much lamented how some lawyers refer to their clients as “an inventory of cases” or “a book of business.” When considering clients’ points of view, remember the adage, “Before I care how much you know, I need to know how much you care.”
What is the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today?
We are facing a growing epidemic of loneliness and isolation as a profession.
More lawyers and their teams are working remotely. While appearing by Zoom has many advantages in efficiency and convenience, like so many advances in technology, it comes with a price. There was enormous value in the time milling around the courthouse waiting for a hearing to start, getting to know other lawyers, and building lasting friendships.
With changes to remote and hybrid work arrangements, increased adoption of Zoom court, and too many people connecting primarily via social media and text messaging, a lonely profession is becoming ever lonelier.
It is more important than ever to make the time and put in the effort to build meaningful friendships with other lawyers, to be active in your bar associations, to attend in-person conferences and CLEs, and to simply show up and be present.
What do you do for fun?
Spending time and traveling with my wife and kids, playing games (a lot of chess), and taking walks outside with a good podcast or audiobook helps me recharge.
Our Professionalism Spotlight recognizes legal professionals throughout Illinois who are admired for their professionalism and civility. Check out more interviews here.
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