Guiding Principles An attorney needs an understanding of the client, the client's history, achievements, problems, dynamics and concerns. Whatever vocabulary the client may use, there are frequently more important matters underlying what is presented. The good counselor works beyond the apparent discussion to understand the real issues. Our area requires a strong technical background. It also requires time, experience, and the ability to listen, to construct creatively and to articulate directly and sympathetically. Clients evolve and there are no templates that work for all clients. Over the years, goals, needs and relationships change. A plan has a relatively short useful life and requires regular reconsideration and flexibility. The counselor must respect the uniqueness of the situation but also be prepared to offer perspective based on experience.