Legal Definitions - Mouthpiece

The term Mouthpiece is a derogatory slang term used to describe a lawyer, particularly a criminal defense attorney. It originates from the idea that a lawyer acts as a spokesperson, or "mouth," for their client. However, when used in this context, the term carries a strong negative connotation, implying that the lawyer lacks personal integrity and professional independence.

Someone referred to as a "mouthpiece" is perceived as merely echoing their client's wishes or defending their actions without regard for ethical considerations, the truth, or the broader pursuit of justice. It suggests the lawyer is a tool or instrument, blindly advocating for a client's interests, even if those interests are questionable or harmful, rather than exercising independent professional judgment and upholding their responsibilities to the legal system.

Here are some examples illustrating how the term "mouthpiece" might be applied:

• Example 1: During a highly publicized trial involving a powerful corporate executive accused of financial fraud, the executive's defense attorney aggressively attacked the credibility of whistleblowers and presented complex arguments that seemed designed to obscure the facts rather than clarify them. Many in the public and media began referring to the attorney as the executive's "mouthpiece," suggesting the lawyer was merely parroting the company's denials and employing any tactic, however ethically dubious, to protect their client, rather than genuinely seeking a just outcome.

  This illustrates the term "mouthpiece" because the attorney is perceived as lacking independent judgment and integrity, acting solely as an instrument to advance the client's interests, even if it means undermining the pursuit of truth or justice.

• Example 2: A lawyer representing a controversial public figure, who has been widely criticized for unethical behavior, consistently issues statements that dismiss all accusations as politically motivated and attacks the character of accusers. Even when presented with compelling evidence, the lawyer's public defense remains unwavering and dismissive. Commentators might label this lawyer a "mouthpiece" for the public figure, implying that the lawyer is simply delivering their client's pre-determined narrative and defending indefensible actions, rather than providing an objective or ethically grounded legal defense.

  Here, the term "mouthpiece" highlights the perception that the lawyer is acting as a mere echo chamber for the client's agenda, seemingly without exercising professional discretion or upholding broader ethical duties, thus calling into question their professional responsibility.