Question from a Reader:
Is Mizuhara Ippei’s lawyer competent? It seems like he has never apologized in front of the camera, and people’s impressions of him are getting worse. I’m not very familiar with plea deals, but when he said he committed the crime because he wasn’t treated well, it seems like that might not be the whole truth. Wouldn’t it
have been better if he had a more open attitude towards apologizing?
Reflecting on Apologies and the Role of Lawyers
Recently, I’ve been hearing discussions about Mizuhara Ippei’s lawyer. Many people seem to be questioning his stance of not apologizing in front of the camera. Honestly, I’m one of those people. I’d like to think a bit from the perspective of a lawyer.
The Necessity of Apologies
Lawyers exist to protect their clients. Therefore, apologizing is not always necessary. Particularly in the United States, an apology can be seen as an admission of guilt and can actually work against the individual. Japan has a somewhat similar culture, where apologizing can sometimes lower one’s social standing. Thus, a lawyer’s decision not to apologize might be a strategic professional choice. When I was working part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office, there was a client who came in with a problem. No matter how much he apologized, the other party remained dissatisfied, and we struggled with how to handle the situation. It was a moment that made me realize that considering solutions is often more important than simply apologizing. While understanding a client’s emotions is crucial, I learned that an official apology can sometimes be counterproductive.
Understanding Plea Deals
I also find myself reflecting on Mizuhara’s comments regarding plea deals. A plea deal is an agreement made between law enforcement and a defendant, but there are many circumstances behind it. Is his statement about committing the crime due to poor treatment truly accurate? How the lawyer interprets these circumstances and utilizes them in defense is key. Honestly, when I was a student, I didn’t fully understand plea deals. I remember reading law books with friends and wondering, “Does this really happen in real life?” One friend remarked, “The law is fascinating because it closely relates to our everyday lives,” and that stuck with me. The world of law is profound.
Conclusion
I believe there are cultural and professional reasons behind why Mizuhara Ippei’s lawyer chooses not to apologize. I’ve learned through my own experiences that an apology is not always a solution. The world of law is complex, but that complexity also brings with it the joy of contemplation. What do you think? If you have experiences or opinions regarding lawyers or legal issues, I’d love to hear them in the comments. I look forward to listening to your thoughts!
