An advocate’s reputation starts with predictability – opinion

An advocate’s strong professional reputation is built on predictable behavior, effective communication with clients and colleagues, and the ability to fulfill commitments responsibly.

This view was expressed by advocate Dmytro Krugovyi during an open interview with a representative of the UNBA NextGen in the Kyiv region Tetyana Kozyan.

According to D. Krugovyi, reputation is the primary asset of an advocate or a law firm, and its foundation is predictability. Today, complex cases are handled by teams, so an advocate must care not only about how clients perceive them but also about their reputation among colleagues.

Predictability means that clients and colleagues understand how an advocate will conduct themselves in their work, whether they will honor agreements, and whether they can be relied upon. This is precisely what helps advocates secure interesting cases and build professional trust.

He cited a lack of attention to communication skills as one of the mistakes young advocates make. The «I know everything, I’m the smartest» attitude harms both teamwork and interactions with clients.

D. Krugovyi identified specialization as a key element of reputation. An advocate may take on various cases due to uncertainty or the need for income. But to develop strong expertise, focus is essential: handling multiple practice areas simultaneously prevents one from becoming a recognized specialist in a specific field.

An advocate’s positioning must be clear to the client. If a client expects a principled fight to the end, but the advocate constantly suggests settling or ending the dispute, this may contradict the initial agreements. Therefore, it is important to align expectations, strategy, and the scope of work right from the start.

The speaker also emphasized that an advocate cannot guarantee a specific outcome such as the prompt release of a person from custody or any other specific procedural result. Instead, an advocate can guarantee the quality of their work: accountability, full commitment to the case, analysis of weaknesses, and a willingness to refine their position. When communicating with clients and colleagues, it is important to keep your word: if you’ve promised something, you must do it on time, and if you can’t make it in time let them know.

D. Krugovyi called «word of mouth» the most reliable tool. If a client came on a recommendation, an important outcome can be that the client confirms to the person who recommended the advocate that the assistance was effective.

To maintain a good reputation over the years, the speaker advised not to disappear after a case is closed. Periodic contact helps maintain a connection and reminds the client that they have an advocate they can recommend to others.