"It might be pardonable to refuse to defend some men, but to defend them negligently is nothing short of criminal"

This quote by Cicero speaks to the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. It recommends that it is in some cases appropriate to refuse to defend somebody, but to do so in a negligent way is wrong. It indicates that a person must take their duties seriously and not shirk their duties. It also suggests that a person must not make the most of another person's vulnerability or lack of understanding. In essence, it is stating that it is wrong to benefit from someone else's misery or lack of understanding. This quote functions as a pointer that we must constantly strive to do the right thing and take duty for our actions. It is a tip that we should not take advantage of another person's misfortune or absence of understanding.