It's Okay to Get Nervous

Abstract

This article is designed to reassure law students and new lawyers that they aren't unfit for courtroom work simply because they feel pangs of nervousness before law-school competitions or court appearances. After noting that our nation's most accomplished advocates feel nerves before big events, the article uses commentary and data from veteran lawyers, psychologists, and scholars to show that it's normal -- and even a positive sign -- for advocates to feel butterflies. The article also shares tips for dealing with courtroom jitters. The author hopes that this article will be a helpful resource for Legal Skills professors, moot-court coaches, and lawyers mentoring new hires.

Keywords: Law Student, Legal Skills, Moot Court, Mock Trial, Litigation, Advocacy, Court, Courtroom, Oral Argument, Competition, National Competition, Clinical Instruction, Psychology, Nerves, Nervousness, Personality, Extrovert, Introvert