German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer is often credited with the saying, “All truth passes through three stages: First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.” Regardless of who said it first, the point still hits home—especially for those of us in the legal field.

As lawyers, we’re trained to follow facts, weigh evidence, and rely on precedent. But let’s be honest—just because something is true doesn’t mean it’s immediately recognized as such. Sometimes, truth has to push through layers of doubt, criticism, or even outright resistance before it’s acknowledged for what it is.

This pattern isn’t just something we see in courtrooms. It’s a reflection of society at large.

Look at history. Civil rights reforms were once considered radical. Environmental protections were scoffed at before they became mainstream policy. Whistleblowers are often dismissed before their warnings are finally taken seriously. Even in legal circles, some of today’s standard practices started as controversial ideas.

And now, in a time when trust in institutions, politicians, and the media is shaky and people can’t seem to agree on basic facts, our role as legal professionals has become even more important. It’s not enough to just represent clients. We also need to be clear-eyed stewards of truth and fairness in a world that’s increasingly muddled.

Courtrooms might still be one of the last places where truth is tested in a structured way—but even that process isn’t immune to political noise, misinformation, or emotional spin.

So, if truth really does start with mockery and struggle before becoming obvious, then we must be willing to stick with it—especially in those early, unpopular stages. When the facts are inconvenient, when the law is misunderstood, or when public opinion drifts away from reason, we need to hold steady.

Here are four practical ways lawyers can help truth stay on course in today’s fractured landscape:

1. Defend evidence-based thinking. Ground your arguments in facts and expert insight—not just what sounds good or feels persuasive. Truth needs solid footing, especially when emotions are high.
2. Strengthen public understanding of the legal process. Help clients and communities see how truth is tested in the legal system. When people understand how due process works, they’re better equipped to recognize justice—and spot misinformation when it shows up. Don’t assume that non-lawyers understand how important the rule of law is.
3. Confront falsehoods early. Don’t wait for half-truths or misleading narratives to take hold. Speak up, be clear, and correct the record when you see it slipping.
4. Model humility and intellectual honesty. We all have blind spots. Be open to shifting your view when the facts call for it. That willingness to evolve sets a strong example, not just for the legal community but for everyone watching.

Truth isn’t always quick to reveal itself. But how long it takes often depends on how willing we are to stand up for it—even when it’s inconvenient, unpopular, or messy.

In a world where truth can feel elusive, lawyers have a chance to be steady hands. Our work—whether in courtrooms, boardrooms, or community meetings—can help rebuild trust, promote fairness, and bring clarity where it’s needed most. We’re not just defending the law. We’re helping truth find its way forward, one step at a time.