Are work backpacks professional enough for lawyers?

[Anonymous]

Until now I've used a tote bag as my work bag (nylon baggallini, back, bland but servicable). It's looking a little ragged, so I'm looking for something new. I'm in NYC and I see a lot of people on the train now with work backpacks (like professional style Tumi backpack). A backpack would be easier to carry, but it is professional enough for law? What say you? Mostly I just go and from the office but very occasionally I go to court and I take it if I don't have a million docs to carry. I don't want to get a separate bag just for court.

[Anonymous]

For daily commuting purposes, I do not see what bag you bring as being relevant to whether you are professional or not, your work product/performance will speak for itself. But if meeting clients and whatnot, if it brings you a boost in confidence, sure bring a "professional looking" bag/briefcase. I never wear professional business attire during my commutes but I leave at least two entire outfits (shoes included) in the office for emergency purposes.

[Anonymous]

Yes. Look at Samsonite.

[Anonymous]

yes. Especially if it is a nicer brand like tumi

[Anonymous]

I'm an appellate lawyer in California and also use a black nylon tote for court. I'd be ok with a professional backpack but probably wouldn't carry it as a backpack as I went up for argument. So, something with a loop on the top or something I could use to carry it in my hand would be essential.

[Anonymous]

No

Unless you are riding a scooter.

[Anonymous]

Depends entirely on where you work. I use a leather backpack but work in house in a jeans allowed office

[Anonymous]

I live in San Francisco, and our firm gives out backpacks, so some attorneys use those to get to/from work.

Not okay for court.

[Anonymous]

I'm an attorney and carry a backpack, but in general my first is very casual. I think it's fine but not for court.

[Anonymous]

You could always carry a grocery bag.

[Anonymous]

My husband is a partner at a big firm and uses a backpack. Check Aer, Away and Dagne Dover.

[Anonymous]

[Anonymous]

Also an appellate lawyer and I use a (nice) backpack for commuting and I take a nylon tote to court for arguments, much like the poster above. But I prefer the tote for court not necessarily because it’s more professional, but because it’s better for carrying redwells/briefs.

[Anonymous]

Yes. I took a black and gray Louis Vuitton backpack to court recently. I would stick with a dressy backpack, not one that looks like you’re going hiking.

[Anonymous]

I have a great Baggalini back pack with a handle that can also be carried like a brief case. Looks great.