Those who play golf know that it is no easy game. It can be frustrating and demoralizing. 

But the great game brings instructional insight to many areas of business and life, including the law. Here are some excellent lessons from golf that will keep lawyers and their clients on the legal fairway. 

1. Apply Patience and Perseverance

Just as a golfer stays focused through a long round, a legal team remains dedicated throughout a case, no matter how long it takes.

A round of golf can span hours, and a legal case can take years. Many hazards and unfavorable outcomes will arise and threaten to ruin a promising round. 

Although shortcuts can be tempting, they often bring awful results and need to be viewed with caution. Legal challenges require a steady focus and the ability to stay committed to the long game. 

2. Think Strategically

Just like a golfer carefully plans shots, clients and lawyers need to meticulously strategize their legal approach. 

This includes anticipating challenges, adapting to changing circumstances and always keeping the end goal in sight. 

A sudden change in the environment might require a pivot in strategy.  

3. Pay Attention to Detail

Just as a golfer reads and rereads greens carefully, lawyers pore over draft contracts and other documents with keen eyes for detail. 

Overlooking a seemingly minor factor can have significant consequences in either arena.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice 

There is no substitute for practice. Ongoing work in the practice of law hones skills, builds confidence and ultimately leads to better performance.

This is one of the primary advantages of hiring a lawyer instead of going solo over a difficult course. 

5. Stay Tough Mentally

Like golf, legal matters can be mentally taxing. Maintaining composure under pressure, managing stress and staying mentally sharp are crucial for success for clients and lawyers alike.

6. Insist on Ethical Conduct

Just as golfers follow strict rules, lawyers must adhere to the highest ethical standards. 

This is not just a matter of compliance, but also a reflection of character and professionalism.

7. Focus on the Big Picture Ahead

Some golfers tend to focus too much on the impact of one bad shot. The same is true for the legal world. Clients tend to get bogged down with one bad outcome and forget that one minor, negative result does not necessarily affect the overall big picture. 

The ultimate goals should be the focus because, like in golf, the aftermath of one bad result leaves plenty of opportunities to turn things around. 

Tallying Up the Score

While golf and the law may seem like unlikely bedfellows, lessons learned on the links can be invaluable for lawyers and the business owners, individuals and families who rely on them. 

By embracing these shared principles, we can achieve better outcomes and perhaps even enjoy our journeys a little more. Hit ‘em straight and focus on the follow through, as the follow through is what really can make the difference. 

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James LaPolla is a civil litigation and family law attorney at Harrington, Hoppe & Mitchell. He is the head coach of a high school golf team and a scratch golfer. He can be reached at (330) 392-1541 or at jlapolla@hhmlaw.com.