I have some advice to offer. Some of it you’ve heard before, but this list is special, I hope. It is a product of hundreds of days of watching trials, reading motions, hearing argument and drafting orders.

First, when we see some attorneys, we groan. Others, excite us. Then there’s a third level: heroes who inspire us. This group is suave, smart, self-aware, sound, savvy, straightforward, systematic and sensible. But here’s the thing: The hero status is something to guard, because a single misstep makes you tumble. And when you lose your hero status, it’s nearly impossible to regain.