Why are Participants on Legal Forums so Vicious?

....and condescending. I've been relatively active on various other forums that include tennis, audio, photography, cycling, guitar, dogs, cats, automobiles, etc and the participants have always been extremely helpful, courteous and nice. I always end my questions or requests with "Thank you very much in advance!"

However, and very interestingly, I've been on two different legal forums and the replies are ALWAYS condescending, often downright vicious.

I have some theories, but I'd like to hear what others have to say.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

Legal issues are very analytical and may attract people who are less empathic and who may have educations that create an elitist persona. Add to that, when someone asks them a naive question (which can happen in a public forum) they end up being condescending. It's as if they are looking for someone to look down on.

Lawyers!