In Patrick O'Brian's "The Reverse of the Medal," the author critiques the legal profession, pointing out a troubling trend among lawyers. He acknowledges that not every lawyer is inherently bad, but suggests that the prevailing behavior is concerning. Lawyers often fiercely defend their paying clients, regardless of personal beliefs about the cases they manage. This relentless pursuit of victory, driven by financial gain rather than moral integrity, can lead to a decline in their honor and ethical standards.

O'Brian draws a parallel between lawyers and mercenary soldiers, noting that while mercenaries may lack honor, they at least face real dangers. In contrast, lawyers risk little more than their next paycheck. This diminishes the perceived nobility of their profession, as the commitment to justice can become overshadowed by the inclination to prioritize monetary rewards. The result is a profession that may lose its ethical compass, undermining public trust in the legal system.