Camouflage is an art as much as it is a form of survival in the wild. It is a skill equally utilized by predator and prey.
The octopus is a master manipulator of camouflage. It can change color and texture in less than a second. They have advanced eyesight. They are limber enough to fit into the smallest crevices. Best of all, they are super smart and keenly intuitive.
Unlike the wily octopus, trial lawyers often have the instinct to be seen. We often fail to analyze the power of subterfuge or selective presence. This is a mistake. At times, listening can be more valuable than being heard. Being seen can attract unwarranted attention. While “the squeaky wheel gets the oil,” sometimes “the nail that sticks out gets hammered.”
If you are counsel for one of several defendants, contemplate your role. Is your client the target? Would it be better to blend into the background like the resourceful octopus? Will blending in help your case or hurt it? What is the likelihood the other side intends to lure you into complacency? Measured visibility can be an appreciable asset.
Consider texture. How do you want to “show up” in the case? In some cases, an empathetic style might be more persuasive. In others, righteous indignation might be appropriate. How do you want your client to appear? The texture of each case will be different. The clever octopus must be versatile enough to change course in an instant.