Since I have been visiting Mr. Fine in prison as his legal connection to the out side world, I have waited at the “lawyer window” for many hours. I am recognized by many private and public “defenders” who know Richard’s story. Today while waiting to see Mr. Fine in prison, I was spoken to by two separate lawyers who asked how Mr. Fine was doing. Both expressed admiration for his courage. One told me that he would love to do what Richard is doing but as a public defender, I should understand, that he is not a very good lawyer. He confirmed to me that fighting for Constitutional rights or just defying the judiciary would be career suicide. He was a public defender and that was as high as he could go in his legal career with the “gifts” that life had given him.
He went on to say that intelligent lawyers make a very good living practicing law in the private sector. Those who can’t “cut” that become college professors. Those who can’t cut that become public defenders and those that can’t cut that but show a complete subservience to “the system” become judges. “They are the bottom of the barrel Fred.” He had been offered judge positions a number of times but was ethically compelled to say no.
The other lawyer who spoke to me, told me that she was so dissatisfied with her job that she was looking to an alternative to being a lawyer. I suggested that she consider becoming a mediator. It is what my sister did as she is too idealistic to practice unethical law. The woman thanked me for the idea and asked if I could have my sister call her.
Then finally, they brought Mr. Fine to the window and we were able to exchange papers.
Imagine having those conversations in that setting.
Imagine my feeling of confirmation from those lawyers as to what Richard Fine is doing.
There are many “worlds” of law out there.
Just like any business, there are those who are successful on merit. There are those who struggle to make a living and there are those who lie, cheat and steal.