The great weakness of Laman was his pride. He was a man with a strong personality, capable of impressing others as a leader. He, no doubt, had as much education as his younger brothers. He was skilled in oratory, and he had the legal advantage of being the firstborn. But with all these qualifications he was weak, because he lacked humility.
Laman had his chance. But he did not stand the test. We have seen how he failed. When the question of obtaining the brass plates from Laban came up, the Lord gave Laman the opportunity to lead. Boldly he went to Laban with his request, but at the first sign of danger he fled. Not so Nephi. He relied on the Lord and succeeded.
Then Laman again showed his weakness in anger and acts of violence. Read the account again in 28-31. At length he became a rebel and a leader of rebellion against the Lord, (vv. 25, 26).