An open mind and an open book: a look at one lawyer’s journey

Gene Stearns has worked as a lawyer for more than 53 years.

“Read, read, read, read, read. Read books, read books. Turn the TV off, turn the social media off, and read,” said Gene Stearns, one of the most successful lawyers in Florida. Over the course of his 53-year career, he has worked with many big clients including Exxon, Google, and YouTube and now leads the firm Stearns Weaver Miller. But he credits his success to a simple habit: “99% of what I know…is a function of the fact that I am buried in books all the time,” he said. Stearns sat down to talk about his life, career, and the lessons that helped him succeed.

The following interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

What was your childhood like?

I was one of four boys, and I grew up in Miami. My mother was very literate, very well educated. My father worked a lot, so I spent more time with my mother, who was a wonderful person. Almost every day, I remember something she said to me, some pearls of wisdom that I’ve carried with me my whole life. I had a wonderful childhood. I met my wife in 10th grade. We’ve been together ever since. We just celebrated our 60th anniversary last week. We weren’t rich, but my family cared about others. I went to church and learned Christian values: respect, fairness, and how to do the right thing. Mentors in the legislature told me, “If you don’t want to read about it on the front page of The Miami Herald, don’t do it.” Always do the right thing, even if it seems painful.

What early experiences shaped the way you think today?

I was born in 1944. The war in Europe ended when I was a baby, and the war in the Pacific ended before I turned one. I grew up without television until I was seven or eight. Our first TV was a big box with a tiny black and white screen and most shows were about World War 2. I remember seeing Germany in the 30s and 40s–the Holocaust, the S.S., the stormtroopers. I saw they ruled through fear. It taught me that humanity has both good and bad, and leaders can bring out the worst in people. History has a way of repeating itself, and that awareness shaped how I see life.

Who influenced you the most growing up?

As a young child, my mother. In high school, my wife influenced me profoundly and, in college, I had wonderful professors. One showed us an empty picture frame and said, “This is my frame of reference. What you’re seeing is entirely different from what I am seeing.” As you grow, remember to see the world from other viewpoints. That shaped how I think.

Did you always want to be a lawyer?

No, I thought about being a writer or architect. My bride said if I wasn’t a lawyer, she wouldn’t stay with me. She pushed me toward law. 

Did you ever doubt this was the right career?

Not after I started practicing. I learned through experience and mentoring. Every challenge prepared me for the next.

What has been your most important or meaningful case?

Every case is the most important case to the people I represent. The largest was against Exxon, which went to the Supreme Court. Every case teaches lessons about law, ethics, and advocacy.

What’s the best lesson you’ve learned from leading others?

Lead by example. Don’t ask people to do something you wouldn’t do. Be respectful. Don’t scream at people. Build people up. Don’t blame others–fix the problem. Share success. Leadership comes from example.

What’s your final advice for young people?

Read, read, read. If you haven’t started, start. Read eclectically–science fiction, novels, history. Open your mind. Separate yourself from the pack by being well read, and make time for books.