Sorry, I’m Unavailable: The Lawyer’s Guide to Setting Boundaries
Let’s be real—law is a profession that thrives on blurred lines. The “urgent” client email at 11 PM, the weekend call that “just needs five minutes” (spoiler: it never does), and the expectation that your personal life exists in whatever time is left over.
But here’s the kicker: If you don’t set boundaries, no one will do it for you—and you can’t be mad when people cross the lines you never drew.
In a profession built on serving others, it’s easy to feel guilty for prioritizing yourself. But boundaries aren’t about slacking off or being difficult—they’re about ensuring you can do your job well without running yourself into the ground.
So, let’s talk about how to set boundaries that stick, why they matter, and how to enforce them without sounding like an arsehole.
Why Boundaries Are Non-Negotiable
Everyone on social media seems to be talking about the need to set boundaries. But most misunderstand or misuse the term.
Consider them:
Guidelines for how we will be treated,
A way to enhance understanding and safety
A way to enhance communication
They are not:
An excuse,
A substitute for self-regulation,
A cop out for taking responsibility
Boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re survival. A love language, if you will. Designed to bring us closer together.
Without them, you risk:
Burnout: Chronic exhaustion is not a badge of honor. It’s a red flag.
Resentment: Constantly saying “yes” when you mean “no” breeds frustration.
Inefficiency: Being available 24/7 doesn’t make you more productive—it just makes you tired.
Being Taken for Granted: If you always say yes, people assume you always will.
How to Set Boundaries (Without Feeling Like a Monster)
1. Define Your Non-Negotiables
Start by asking yourself:
When am I not available for work? (Evenings? Weekends? During gym sessions?)
What tasks or behaviors cross the line? (Last-minute requests? Unrealistic deadlines?)
What do I need to feel balanced? (Uninterrupted lunch? A break between meetings?)
If you don’t define your own limits, someone else will—and you probably won’t like them.
2. Communicate Clearly (Without Over-Explaining)
A boundary isn’t a boundary if you keep it to yourself. The trick? Be direct, firm, and concise.
“I don’t take work calls after 7 PM.”
“I’m not available on weekends, but I’ll respond first thing Monday.”
“This deadline isn’t realistic—I can deliver by [realistic date].”
Notice what’s missing? Excuses. Apologies. Over-justification.
3. Enforce Your Boundaries (Yes, Even When It’s Uncomfortable)
Setting a boundary is easy. Enforcing it? That’s where things get tricky.
A client emails you at 10 PM despite your clear “no emails after 7” policy.
Solution: Wait until morning to respond. If you reply immediately, you’ve just taught them your boundary is optional.
A partner sends you work at the last-minute.
Solution: “I can take this on, but it will mean delaying [other project/ task]. Which one is the priority?” (Translation: I’m not a magician. Pick one.)
Consistency is key. If you cave once, people will push the boundary again.
4. Stop Feeling Guilty (Seriously, Stop It)
Lawyers are notorious for people-pleasing, but let’s be honest:
Would you expect your doctor to answer texts at 11 PM? Would you be upset if your accountant took a weekend off? No.
So why do we hold ourselves to an impossible standard?
Setting boundaries doesn’t make you a bad lawyer—it makes you a sustainable one.
Final Thought:
Boundaries Are a Long-Term Investment
Boundaries are 100% contextual - what works best for you in this situation?
Boundaries MUST have consequences - otherwise that was a pointless conversation!
99% of people get defensive or feel rejected when someone sets a boundary.
BE SELF-AWARE. It should not be about wanting that person to change.
So, the next time you feel the urge to say yes when you really mean no, remember—‘Sorry, I’m unavailable’ is a full sentence, not a negotiation. Your sanity (and your career) will thank you for it.