Anthony Serra

I have always been a supporter of the underdog. I remember in grade school being keenly aware of my classmates and friends who were different than me or treated as outcasts because of their circumstances, appearance, or perceived shortcomings. Seems I always had empathy for the “nerdy kid” that everyone ridiculed sensing how demoralizing it must feel when you are constantly being rejected by your peers. My parents taught me that I was no better than anyone else but that no one was better than me.

Childhood is certainly a difficult time for many of us and kids can be downright cruel. Perhaps as children we don't know better, but the core of who we are is formulated at an early age and contributes to our character as adults. If you want to judge a person's character, look no further than how he or she treats the outcasts, the marginalized, the downtrodden, the elderly and those who are struggling. I understand that given a different set of circumstances in my life, I too could be the outcast that others disdain.

I am not perfect and, like the rest of us, have my shortcomings; but I believe in the dignity of each and every human being knowing that at any moment, my good fortune (whatever it may be) can be swept away leaving me to rely on the goodness, compassion and care of others to meet my basic needs. How I treat others is how I will be treated in return. This is how I was raised.

Although I am not a very religious person, I do believe we reap what we sow and that our work on this earth will be measured, not in terms of the size of our bank account, but rather in our good deeds and by treating people (everyone) with kindness, respect and dignity. “To whom much is given, much is expected” was taught to me at an early age and has never left my consciousness. I also believe that as a society, we rise and fall based on the collective efforts of us all, not through the good fortune of a few. Helping those who need a hand and an advocate fulfills me both as a lawyer and as a human being.

Despite the prevailing negative attitude towards lawyers, I am honored to be part of this noble profession that serves the interests of others who need a voice. By the grace of God I have been blessed in many ways; it is only right that I give back to society to make this a better world for all its inhabitants. That is the solemn oath I took 30 plus years ago when I chose to become a lawyer.