Lawyer's apology for inexperience met with warmth by judge, video goes viral
A young lawyer, Jéssica Santos, recently went viral after posting a video of an online court session where she apologized to a judge for her inexperience. Santos, who has been practicing law for less than three years and is 26 years old, explained to Judge Fabiane Pieruccini that it was her first time addressing such a high-ranking authority and she was concerned about using the correct forms of address. Judge Pieruccini immediately reassured Santos, stating they were on equal footing and encouraged her to speak normally. The judge concluded by commending Santos's performance, saying she did "very well."
Santos, who has an office in Jaraguá do Sul, Santa Catarina, explained that she filmed the interaction as a precaution and decided to share it after the judge's positive reception. She felt the need to apologize proactively to avoid any potential missteps that could undermine her client's case. The video garnered over 227,000 views on social media by Monday evening. Santos highlighted that the legal profession often presents a taboo around early-career struggles, with a tendency to project an image of constant experience and empowerment, making it difficult for newcomers to be seen.
The video sparked a divided reaction online, with many praising Santos's honesty and the judge's empathy. However, some legal colleagues criticized her actions as submissive. Santos advised aspiring lawyers to distinguish between firm resolve and mere confrontation, and between humility and weakness. Judge Pieruccini expressed surprise at the video's widespread attention, emphasizing that her response was simply her duty to treat all legal professionals with equity. She added that showing empathy towards a young, competent lawyer is part of exercising judicial responsibility and fostering a supportive environment within the justice system.
This incident highlights the tension between professional formality and human empathy within the legal system. While strict adherence to protocol is often necessary for judicial integrity, the interaction demonstrates how a judge's willingness to offer a supportive, humanistic approach can foster a more constructive environment for new professionals. The viral nature of the video suggests a public appetite for such displays of collegiality, potentially challenging traditional, more rigid perceptions of judicial demeanor. It also raises questions about how legal education and early-career support structures can better prepare new lawyers for the psychological pressures of high-stakes legal practice, moving beyond mere technical instruction to address the emotional and relational aspects of the profession. The differing reactions underscore a broader debate within the legal community regarding professional presentation and the perceived balance between assertiveness and deference.
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