We have recently informed you that we are proud to be the Legal Partner of the Judo World Championships which will soon be held in Krakow. This mix – a law firm and judo – may have raised a few eyebrows. Below you can find out where all this comes from in a short interview with our Marcin Boruc, a former judoka.
Has your experience with judo influenced your choice of career?
I have no doubt about that. If I hadn’t practised judo I probably wouldn’t have become a lawyer, especially one specializing in litigation. This sport shaped my character. Judo teaches you to act with courage and fight in an honourable way, which is the essence of practising as an advocate.
How does practising judo translate into your pursuing the legal profession as an advocate?
I am very well prepared to participate in difficult and lengthy trials in psychological and physical terms. In the courtroom, especially after three or four hours of hearing, I can sometimes see some moments of a lack of focus in other attorneys. Thanks to my judo training, I am able to focus 100% on the case from the beginning to the end. I am on the alert all the time and always mindful of possible changes in the circumstances.
Besides, it is a continual source of inspiration for me that the word ‘advocate’ has its origin in Latin ‘advocare’ meaning ‘to call for help’ and ‘advocatus’ literally means ‘one called to aid’ or in other words, a defender. The character of a judoka is also shaped in the spirit of defence. Advocates and judokas are bound by codes of ethics that emphasize the same values, such as honour, honesty, integrity.
In addition, practising judo is based on continuous self-improvement, and that is why – as a lawyer – I am always learning new things and trying to develop.
What is your current relationship with martial arts?
I do my judo training on a regular basis, which helps me a lot in practising as an advocate. Therefore, I am very happy that as an advocate I was able to help in organizing such a prestigious tournament. The Judo World Championships will be held in Poland for the first time ever, which is just another reason why I cordially invite you to attend the event in Krakow in September!
Link: judokrakow2022.com