(no subject)
I was at the NLRC again today. It is the third mandatory conference against four people formerly employed by our Korean clients. I think I didn't handle it very well. I lost my cool. In retrospect, they had the right to be angry, because undeniably, our Korean clients are making them wait for their salaries, which is rightfully theirs. But then they were shouting at me, and airing me their grievances that I had to raise my voice and tell them that I have no control over our clients. The partner in the firm can suggest to them what is right and fair, but ultimately, the decision is theirs to make. I was just sent there to delay the payment of their salaries and commissions. I'm the front act. And I'm not complaining. That's the reality of being a junior associate and a new lawyer. We have to learn things the hard way.
I just wished I acted more...well, lawyerly. I should have explained to them better the situation, instead of joining in on the roister. Oh well, another lesson learned. I will do better next time.
Next time, I will appear less hostile and more businesslike. This job, after all, is business. And I couldn't really blame them. It's their money. They worked hard for it. They went before the labor arbiter expecting to talk to someone who can give them the answers to questions like when are they getting paid. Instead, they met me. Unfortunately, I don't have the answers. I'm just the front act. The pawn sent by the law firm to set another conference and delay the case.
I wish I could have been nicer, more assuring that they will be paid eventually. I feel guilty. But then, that's part of the job. We have to get our client's interest first, no matter how unfair it is. That's how attorney's fees are paid. It just sucks because sometimes really, we don't have a choice.
I just wished I acted more...well, lawyerly. I should have explained to them better the situation, instead of joining in on the roister. Oh well, another lesson learned. I will do better next time.
Next time, I will appear less hostile and more businesslike. This job, after all, is business. And I couldn't really blame them. It's their money. They worked hard for it. They went before the labor arbiter expecting to talk to someone who can give them the answers to questions like when are they getting paid. Instead, they met me. Unfortunately, I don't have the answers. I'm just the front act. The pawn sent by the law firm to set another conference and delay the case.
I wish I could have been nicer, more assuring that they will be paid eventually. I feel guilty. But then, that's part of the job. We have to get our client's interest first, no matter how unfair it is. That's how attorney's fees are paid. It just sucks because sometimes really, we don't have a choice.