ABA Journal

So, we ought to practice an area of the law that we like. Got it.

Groundbreaking work there.

By 2L on 2012 04 27, 2:10 pm CDT

2L - did you miss the part about developing good relationships?

By Pushkin on 2012 04 27, 2:47 pm CDT

My own experience from law school and in meeting current law students is that they often miss, as 2L above did, the importance of networking with their own classmates and practitioners in areas in which they are interested.

By John on 2012 04 27, 3:47 pm CDT

I’ve been practicing since 2001 and I LOVE what I do.  I’ve worked hard to develop good relationships with peers.  Don’t forget the court staff too - they can make things work for you a lot more smoothly.

By Roseann on 2012 04 28, 5:27 pm CDT

I am a solo ... have been one from day one ... and I like what I do ... provided I am paid. 

Law School gives its graduates a false sense of security that if they work hard ... they will be snatched up ... and molded by some firm with lawyer mentors.  Today, nothing could be further from the truth.  Since I am in the unfortunate position that I need to start hiring lawyers to get the work done, new lawyers have to hit the ground running, understand or be willing to learn quickly areas of law, and be able to think on their feet to survive. 

Mentoring is fine ... hand holding is unacceptable.  Do what you need to do to come out of law school not only intellectually prepared but emotionally ready to handle the responsibilities of this job.  It is intially overwhelming but you can overcome those jitters.  Also ... start becoming comfortable with uncertainity and be willing to tell people “I don’t know.”  That clears the air so we can all get the work done more efficiently.

In these tough times ... liking what you do is key because I and many other law firms do not have time to provide a fullfilling experience when law school does not provide it.  Get practical experience and figure it out before you get out of law school.  Be willing to work and work hard and demonstrate your worth to the Court and your clients ... and you will be alright.

Finally, networking with classmates is key.  They will, after all, someday be the judges, opposing counsel, prosecutors, legislators, and governors your going to need to advance your own career.  So be careful how you carry yourself now ... that impression among your peers in school can last a long time.

That is what this article is really about.

By David DeRosa on 2012 04 28, 9:38 pm CDT