Joe Jamail

The trick is to learn to contain one's ego, not conceal it.

I spent a year at Southwestern Louisiana Institute, then transferred back to the University of Texas, where I majored in English and history.

I didn't do too well until my second year, when I realized that there were no right or wrong answers and that my professors were interested only in how well I could develop an argument.

I love my wife. She had money when I didn't.

The money doesn't really matter. I've been a multi-millionaire for a long time. My sons are rich.

I don't want corporate America to think they can continue their duplicitous double-dealing.

I don't think I'm a good ol' boy. Honestly, the last thing I am is a redneck. I like silk sheets, fancy cars, beautiful women, good whiskey.

What did I know about lawyering? I just thought it was another way to stay in Austin for another three years.

I love the system. Let me tell you why. People love it... The people, by and large, have great respect for our law and our system... Why do you think they go to that courthouse instead of killing each other in the streets, taking the law into their own hands?

That's a good feeling, to save your clients two billion dollars.

I happen to have a giant ego, an admission that will not shock my close friends or critics. I am not uncomfortable in saying that because the ego of a man often gets great things done.

It's not a bad thing fighting for equality and helping the poor. It's not a bad thing to have on your professional tombstone: 'He believed in equality and he helped the poor.'

It has been pointed out to me, more than once, that for someone who chose a profession steeped in procedure and protocol, I had little use for either.

I think the average American has forgotten the great feel for liberty and accountability that the framers of the Constitution believed.

I'm a very egotistical person.

I think I'm doing some good. Obviously, I don't need any more money.

We've got some well-run corporations by some well-intended people who do it right.

It's a great feeling knowing you've helped someone. That's what I've spent my life doing and my practice.

I didn't know who she was, but I knew she was hungry, so I started handing out $100 bills and called the office and told them to bring me a bunch more. Then I had my cousin's store deliver a bunch of smoked ham and turkeys. I mean, these people are hungry and living under a bridge.

We can still do good for others and do good for ourselves. I would wither and die, truthfully. I need to be somewhere where the light's on me.

Any good trial lawyer knows that if you've got one credible expert or scientific study, then you can let the jury decide.

If you start comparing my practice of law to what I could have been - selling bananas - you'll know why I gave money to the University of Texas.

When I walk into a courtroom, I feel like I'm home.

For me, being a lawyer means to help those in need.

If you are not emotionally involved, your client is not getting your best effort.