
As a senior barrister, Alan Sullivan QC of Sydney has plenty he could boast about. But boasting barristers is also what he took aim at in a post that saw almost 160 comments and 1000 likes.
The barrister who has been a Silk since 1990 has been heavily involved in commercial, neglgience and sports law matters among others. But his recent post on LinkedIn chastised his bretheren who regularly trumpet their court successes.
His post received multiple comments and shares askinig why he remained on the site, although there had been “inspirational stories of will triumphing over adversity and forgiveness trumping hatred or revenge”
But it was the self promotional drivel he most hated, noting –
But overall this has just become a naked selfish advertising and marketing tool for people with false modesty to say how terrific they are.
I am particularly ashamed of my fellow barristers who use this platform to boast about their victories.
I haven’t seen any of them talk about their losses. And any experienced barrister knows that often their best performances result in loss. That is because of the cab rank rule. Barristers have to take cases even though they would prefer not to.
As someone frequently included in “ beauty contest” lists of best lawyers etc over many years without any solicitation or marketing on my part , I must say I am gobsmacked by how many of my colleagues with , what I regard as false humility, race to publicise such “achievements” on this site.
Personally , I have never regarded being on such lists as important, accurate or satisfying. They are cynical money making beauty contests .
Let’s remember we are in a profession not a business.

The Sullivan Bio: Specialising in commercial law, equity, sports law , professional negligence and appellate advocacy. Former Chair of the NSWRL and ARL judiciaries, current Senior Commissioner , Cricket Australia Conduct Commission, member of Court of Arbitration for Sport since 2000, Deputy Chair of the Adjudicatory Chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee 2013-2017, current President of the FFA Appeals Tribunal. Recipient of the 2017 ANZSLA Award for lifetime contribution to sport and sports law. Member of the National Board of the Men of League Foundation.
Read More on LawFuel
- Gender Equality Advocate Named First Female President of International Bar Association in Two DecadesAfter a 20 year gap, the International Bar Association has elected its …
- Which Are The Best Civil Rights Law Firms in NYC?Choosing a top civil rights lawyer in NYC is more than checking online – it involves careful choice based on experience and commitment
- 30 Of The Best Boutique Law Firms AnywhereThe best boutique law firms are focused and effective – here are the top 30 boutique law firms operating today
- Law Firm Survey Shows Challenges Ahead For Law Firms in 2023Thomson Reuters law firm report shows layoffs ahead for big law american law firms
- K&L Gates Expand to Dublin With 48th Office and High Profile Irish LawyerK&L Gates have expanded to Dublin with their 48th office opening, hiring …
K&L Gates Expand to Dublin With 48th Office and High Profile Irish Lawyer Read More »
- Key Steps To Obtaining The Best Branding Packages For Small BusinessesWhen selecting branding packages for a small business – including law firms …
Key Steps To Obtaining The Best Branding Packages For Small Businesses Read More »
Pingback: Boasting Barristers Irritate Senior QC . . It’s a Profession, Not a Business (Stupid) | Legal News Feeds