The Case for the Ever-Frustrating Legal Phrase “It Depends”

Hearing “it depends” can be annoying, but it will be your new constant companion if you’re in law school and bracing for the transition into the legal field. More than just a phrase, it’s the cornerstone of common legal parlance (and yes, possibly your new least favorite mantra).

But trust me, it’s not as grim as it sounds. With the right mindset—and a little wit—embracing “it depends” can sting a little less and even make you sound like the sharp legal mind you’re becoming.

That said, understanding why “it depends” matters requires a willingness to let go of absolutes—a lesson I’ve learned firsthand. As an older, nontraditional law student, I’ve noticed that my younger colleagues often hold hardened, unwavering positions as though there’s no room for nuance. Of course, this isn’t unique to academia—it reflects a broader trend in society.

That said, understanding why “it depends” matters requires a willingness to let go of absolutes—a lesson I’ve learned firsthand. As an older, nontraditional law student, I’ve noticed that my younger colleagues often hold hardened, unwavering positions as though there’s no room for nuance. Of course, this isn’t unique to academia—it reflects a broader trend in society.

The reality is that very few issues have black-and-white answers. Oh, if only they did!

This is why the phrase is so important. Much like life, the law thrives in the grey areas where context and perspective shape outcomes. Embracing this uncertainty has been one of my greatest challenges, and I suspect it’s a key hurdle for others as well. Recognizing that absolutes are rare isn’t easy, but it’s essential to becoming a thoughtful advocate and empathetic listener inside and outside the classroom.

Why “It Depends” Can Be Frustrating for Both Students and Clients

We All Seek Simplicity

Law students and nonlawyers often seek clear, definitive answers, especially when asking legal questions. “It depends” feels like a roadblock, perhaps even a copout, rather than helpful guidance.

We All Want to Be Perceived as Experts

People may interpret “it depends” as a lack of knowledge or an unwillingness to commit to an answer, and this phrase can undermine perceptions of you as a lawyer or your law school professor’s expertise.

It Can Sound Cold

Nonlawyers often seek advice during times of stress, urgency, or personal investment, where a nuanced response might come across as detached or lacking empathy.

Similarly, when you, as a law student, are juggling the pressures of finals, drafting briefs, summer associate interviews, and the demands of balancing family life with law school, “it depends” can be even more exasperating.

The Law Is Complex

At the start of their law school journey, law students might not fully appreciate how context-specific the law is. The same is true for nonlawyers seeking legal advice. They may not realize how factors like jurisdiction, unique facts, or changing precedents affect legal advice.

Legal Issues Are Often Interwoven

Lawyers are trained to analyze issues from multiple angles, which leads to conditional answers. Nonlawyers might prefer a bottom-line response, even if it comes with caveats.

Why “It Depends” Is Necessary

Every Situation Is Fact-Specific

In law, the answer is almost never black and white. Nuances like jurisdiction, facts, and procedural posture can change everything. Saying “it depends” signals you’re attuned to the complexities that define good legal analysis.

Clients and Professors Will Love (or Hate) You for It

Clients may groan at the ambiguity, but they’ll appreciate your honesty. Professors, meanwhile, will see it as a sign that you understand the layers of reasoning required in law.

It Buys Time (and Saves You from Missteps)

“It depends” can serve as a pause button. It lets you gather your thoughts before diving into a more nuanced analysis—an invaluable skill for oral arguments, exams, or high-pressure client conversations.

Three Ways to Make “It Depends” Less Annoying

1.  Provide context—Follow up with why it depends, and briefly explain the key factors at play. Example: “It depends on the state you’re in because laws differ. In New York, for example...”
2. Offer probabilities—Instead of leaving the question open-ended, share likely outcomes. Example: “It depends on X and Y, but based on what you’ve told me, it’s likely . . .”
3. Empathize—Acknowledge frustration before diving into legal nuances. Example: “I know this might feel like a nonanswer, but here’s why it’s complicated . . .”

My Suggestions for Better Responses Than “It Depends”

When done well, “it depends” can be a bridge to deeper understanding rather than a source of annoyance. But I’d like to suggest that we in the legal world begin to use alternatives, depending on the context, to make the dastardly phrase land a little better.

In a Formal or Professional Setting

• “The outcome is contingent on specific factors.”
• “The answer varies based on the circumstances.”
• “It is conditional upon certain variables.”
• “The situation determines the response.”
• “The resolution hinges on particular details.”

In a Conversational Setting

• “That really depends on the situation.”
• “It all comes down to the specifics.”
• “The answer isn’t straightforward—it varies.”
• “It’s a case-by-case scenario.”
• “It could go either way depending on the context.”

If You’re Feeling Creative or Metaphorical

• “It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer.”
• “It’s a matter of context.”
• “The devil’s in the details here.”
• “The outcome shifts with the lens you use.”
• “It’s like a weather forecast—always subject to change.”

If You Want to Provide a Neutral or Objective Response

• “There are a few moving parts to consider.”
• “It’s situational.”
• “The correct approach varies.”
• “The response is flexible depending on the parameters.”
• “Multiple factors are at play here.”

If Your Main Mission Is to Project Empathy

• “That’s a tricky one—it can change depending on the scenario.”
• “It’s hard to give a firm answer without more details.”
• “There are different angles to consider for this.”
• “It really depends on how you look at it.”
• “Different situations might lead to different outcomes.”

Here’s the good news: once you learn to deliver it well, “it depends” (or any of my suggested alternatives) can become a strength rather than a source of irritation. They all show you’re thorough, cautious, and attuned to the complexities of the law.

More importantly, your answer can become a bridge to deeper understanding, helping nonlawyers see how much thought goes into crafting good legal advice.

So don’t shy away from using “it depends.” Own it, explain it, and wield it as proof of your legal acumen. After all, the only thing in law all lawyers depend on is “it depends.”