I am a lawyer, which I guess is sort of a writer. I do write all day.
My belief in the rule of law is inspired by my experience. I own my own small business. My father owned his own small business, until he retired. My mother works for a small business. My grandmothers and grandfathers either owned or worked for small businesses. I was inspired to start my own business by my grandmothers, who both owned their own businesses, one a hardware store she inherited from her father, one a restaurant.
I know what one contract means to a small business. I know what happens when one of the parties defaults - almost always the customer, after he's got what he contracted for. Then he doesn't pay. I know what that does to business. I write off thousands every year - I quit keeping track a long time ago because it depresses me. I am a good lawyer but not such a good business person. I am too trusting.
I try to collect money for small businesses, and I know what people do to avoid paying their bills.
So in the US, when business people have so many rights and so many remedies, if the deadbeat doesn't want to pay, the alternatives (liens and garnishment) are so hard and so expensive that they are a disincentive to doing business.
But at least my business is mine.
I became a lawyer because I believe in law. After almost 20 years, I still believe in law. If you are on the right side of the law, it doesn't matter whether you are rich or poor, you will get justice. Should get. Nothing is perfect. |
