The Briefcase Confessional. What lives in a solicitor’s briefcase

Peek inside a solicitor’s briefcase and you will find more than papers. You will find survival gear for court, tokens of past wins, and gadgets that suggest the job is part law part improvisation. Here is a brisk, witty tour of the things lawyers secretly hoard.

Pens, paper and the handwriting fetish

Lawyers worship a good pen. A reliable fountain pen calms witness statements and looks learned in client meetings. Paper still matters. A leather notebook helps memory and turns vague recollections into timelines you can trust.

Post-its and paperclips: the tiny heroes

Post-its mark arguments, flag odd clauses and save frantic phone calls. Paperclips hold evidence together and stop you from apologising to a judge for losing an exhibit. They sound small but they save reputations.

Coffee kit and emergency snacks

Court days run long. A travel flask, spare coffee pods and a hidden biscuit keep focus. Sugar cures courtroom fog. Mints maintain diplomatic breath during negotiations.

Annotated statutes and the comforting weight of books

Digital databases rule, but many lawyers keep marked-up statutes on the shelf. Sticky notes, margin scribbles and dog-eared pages offer quick answers and a pleasing sense of authority.

The theatrical props

A timeline, a simple chart or a printed plan can change a judge’s view faster than argument. These visual aids live in briefcases because persuasion sometimes needs a prop.

Stationery with attitude

Thick letterheads, embossed seals and heavyweight envelopes communicate seriousness before you say a word. Lawyers keep them for settlement letters and statements of truth.

Legal first aid kit

Scissors, tape, a charger, spare pens and a pocket legal dictionary fix last-minute problems. These tools turn panic into procedure.

Old files that refuse to die

Closed files linger for good reasons: precedent, proof of compliance, or retention rules under data protection law. They may clutter a corner but they sometimes resolve future disputes.

Nostalgia drawer

Thank-you notes, photos and quirky mementos remind lawyers why they do the job. They lift morale after tough hearings and make for good retirement speeches.

Confidentiality aids

Sealed folders, labels and laminated checklists reduce the risk of slips. Solicitors keep these practical reminders to stay onside with professional rules and client trust.

Final thought

Solicitors hoard practicality, ritual and the occasional novelty tie. The collection keeps them organised, ready and human. If you want a printable mini checklist for your briefcase, say the word.

At Alexander JLO we have many years of experience of dealing with all aspects of law and will be happy to discuss your case in a free no obligation consultation. Why not call us on +44 (0)20 7537 7000, email us at info@london-law.co.uk or get in touch via the contact us button and see what we can do for you?

This blog was prepared by Alexander JLO’s senior partner, Peter Johnson on 2025 and is correct at the time of publication. With decades of experience in almost all areas of law Peter is happy to assist with any legal issue that you have. He is widely regarded as one of London’s leading lawyers. His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website can be found Here