In advocacy, as in life, knowing when to speak up and when to stay silent is a skill that takes time to master. There is undeniable power in using your voice—standing up for what’s right, advocating for your client, and pushing back when necessary. But there is also power in restraint—choosing not to engage in every battle, letting things unfold, and allowing the universe (or the legal process) to work in its own way.
Take a difficult opposing counsel, for example. It can be tempting to fight every fight, but not every argument serves the client’s best interests. Knowing when to push forward and when to step back is a skill. Sometimes, the smartest move is to let things unfold, focus on the bigger picture, and act only when it truly matters.
A well-timed pause can be just as strategic as a well-argued motion. Speaking up isn’t always about being the loudest—it’s about knowing when and how to use your voice for the best possible outcome.
