Dear Editor:
I agree completely with the sentiments expressed by Gus Chin regarding the decline of professionalism, having been an involved observer for nearly three decades. The pit bull disposition he describes had its genesis in the "you only eat what you kill" mentality that was pervasive in the 1980s and was not limited to lawyers. Investment bankers contributed their fair share. Unfortunately, we seem not to have evolved much in the last twenty years. I won't speak for the investment bankers.
It would be nice if the Utah Bar Journal would contribute to professionalism by rejecting paid advertisements that perpetuate the image of lawyers as snarling dogs. How can we expect the public, TV and movie producers, or the news media to view us any differently than we portray ourselves?
R. Steven Chambers
Editor's Note: Point taken, but (without having made an extensive analysis) the editorial board expects that such advertising likely falls within the precedents protecting commercial speech by lawyers. In addition, in our experience these advertisements are usually somewhat tongue in rabid cheek. Alas, sincere civility and professionalism must ultimately come from the hearts of our members, as should expressions of approval or disapproval. Your letter sets an example of speaking up, civilly and professionally.