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Best Gifts for Lawyers That Aren't Legal Novelty Garbage

By George Khoury, Esq. on November 27, 2017 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

So you've done the whole cute, novelty lawyer gift thing in the past and received mixed reviews. You may have thought your fellow practitioner, or lawyer-family member (or friend) really would've used that Better Call Saul mug in the office, but unfortunately, not many lawyers really want a client to see that.

If you don't want your gift to get dumped in the junk pile due to the complications of online order returns, you may want to consider the fact that the lawyer you are shopping for is a regular person, with the same typical wants and desires as other people. So unless you actually know that they want some sort of silly piece of office adornment, you might want to just ask yourself: Would I want a gift that related to my job? And if the answer to that is yes, ask someone else.

Below, you'll find three tips for shopping for the lawyers in your life.

Get Personal

Remember, it's the thought that counts. And while giving any gift is thoughtful, actually giving a thoughtful gift can mean quite a bit more.

When shopping for a gift, thinking about what the person would actually like is really the way to go. People are different. If you've talked with the person in the past, hopefully you know more about them besides the fact that they're a lawyer. If that's a defining personality trait for them, the lawyer gag gift might even come off as offensive.

If you're struggling to think of something personal, a decent bottle of wine or spirits, or a box of chocolates, are not that personal but are still better, and more appreciated, than most lawyer gag gifts.

Get Technical

Everyone loves tech. Fortunately, most lawyers will usually buy the big ticket items they want. However, often tech peripherals can be excellent gifts, especially if they are not work related, and you know what tech they already have and use.

A few good examples for active lawyers are:

  • Bluetooth headphones designed for specific types of exercise
  • Cases or new watch straps for devices they already own like the Apple Watch or Fitbit

If you know the lawyer is into home automation or the internet of things, or might be curious about it, there are some great additions or little starter kits available. If they use Alexa or Google Home, search for devices that are compatible with those. If you think they'd like to dabble in the IoT revolution, get them a simple WiFi connected, app controlled, LED light bulb or wall outlet.

Are They Experienced?

If the lawyer you're shopping for thrives on experiences, like sports, outings or dining, getting them a gift certificate to enjoy something you know they already like is an easy gift that can score major points. Some examples include:

  • Movie passes for movie buffs
  • Tickets to a sporting event
  • Restaurant gift certificates for foodies
  • A round of golf or other sport they enjoy at a local club or establishment for those active types

Hopefully, you get the idea. When shopping for a lawyer, forget that they are a lawyer. Look at their other interests, and shop for something more meaningful than some self-deprecating lawyer t-shirt.

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