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What do I want to do after graduating from law school?
After college I want to be independent, I want to work at a law firm and after getting some skills and experience I want to open my own law firm and help immigrant people.
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Brian’s Answer
I am not sure if I have the entire answer for you, but I can tell you what I did, and how I went about it. I also wanted to be independent, and wanted to help people. I learned very quickly how much I did not know, about many things that weren't even directly related to the law firm.
First, consider that if your goal is to run your own firm, you must learn to run your own business. You need some training and experience with basic bookkeeping, record keeping, payroll, and management. You can get that experience any number of ways, but watching someone operate their own business will help immeasurably. This is something you can start doing now, even with a part time job working for someone else. You need to develop skills in basic business management; how to hire people, what records you need to create for your business, and how to maintain daily financing goals.
Second, you should try to find legal experience; working as an intern or part time employee for any law firm with your own interest in immigration. These opportunities can be a bit harder to find, but I can tell you many law firms are never approached by interns or students looking for part time work. You can find legal employment boards and ads at most law schools, and that may help you find an opportunity.
Anything you find in the legal field will help you learn the basics of legal practice. The lessons are numerous, and ongoing for most of your career, so plan on the learning curve remaining steep for some time. Law school has very little to offer in the way of job experience.
When you decide to open the firm, it is important to attach to a community, or a mentor, in your field. If you have not looked into it yet, you can join the American Immigration Lawyer Association, or aila.org. They provide forums and practice materials, and a community of practitioners who may be available for advice.
Lastly, law schools can provide some interaction with actual legal work; legal clinics including immigration clinics, and practical courses like writing, trial practice, and appellate or trial teams. These are outside the ordinary course of your study, but will be the only practical experiences you will receive during your pursuit of the degree.
First, consider that if your goal is to run your own firm, you must learn to run your own business. You need some training and experience with basic bookkeeping, record keeping, payroll, and management. You can get that experience any number of ways, but watching someone operate their own business will help immeasurably. This is something you can start doing now, even with a part time job working for someone else. You need to develop skills in basic business management; how to hire people, what records you need to create for your business, and how to maintain daily financing goals.
Second, you should try to find legal experience; working as an intern or part time employee for any law firm with your own interest in immigration. These opportunities can be a bit harder to find, but I can tell you many law firms are never approached by interns or students looking for part time work. You can find legal employment boards and ads at most law schools, and that may help you find an opportunity.
Anything you find in the legal field will help you learn the basics of legal practice. The lessons are numerous, and ongoing for most of your career, so plan on the learning curve remaining steep for some time. Law school has very little to offer in the way of job experience.
When you decide to open the firm, it is important to attach to a community, or a mentor, in your field. If you have not looked into it yet, you can join the American Immigration Lawyer Association, or aila.org. They provide forums and practice materials, and a community of practitioners who may be available for advice.
Lastly, law schools can provide some interaction with actual legal work; legal clinics including immigration clinics, and practical courses like writing, trial practice, and appellate or trial teams. These are outside the ordinary course of your study, but will be the only practical experiences you will receive during your pursuit of the degree.
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Keshur’s Answer
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Ahmed’s Answer
That sounds like a truly inspiring path. Here’s some advice based on experience:
1. Build a Strong Academic and Practical Foundation:
Focus on courses that enhance your analytical, writing, and communication skills. Consider taking classes in immigration law, public policy, or international law. Internships at law firms, non-profits, or legal aid organizations can give you practical experience and valuable networking opportunities.
2. Gain Real-World Experience:
Working at a law firm initially will allow you to learn the day-to-day realities of legal practice. Seek out firms that specialize in immigration or offer pro bono work in that area. This hands-on experience is essential for understanding client needs and the nuances of immigration law.
3. Develop a Business Mindset:
If you aim to open your own law firm, consider gaining experience in the business aspects of law practice. Courses or workshops in legal entrepreneurship, management, and finance can prepare you to handle the administrative and strategic elements of running a firm.
4. Cultivate a Network and Seek Mentorship:
Find mentors who have experience in immigration law or who have successfully opened their own practices. Networking with professionals in your field can offer insights, guidance, and support that will be invaluable as you progress in your career.
5. Stay Committed to Your Vision:
Helping immigrant communities is a noble goal. Engage with community organizations and stay informed about immigration policies and reforms. This will not only deepen your understanding but also build trust and credibility in the community you aim to serve.
Your passion for independence and helping others can drive you to achieve great things. Stay focused, be open to learning from every experience, and remember that every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goal. You've got an amazing journey ahead!
1. Build a Strong Academic and Practical Foundation:
Focus on courses that enhance your analytical, writing, and communication skills. Consider taking classes in immigration law, public policy, or international law. Internships at law firms, non-profits, or legal aid organizations can give you practical experience and valuable networking opportunities.
2. Gain Real-World Experience:
Working at a law firm initially will allow you to learn the day-to-day realities of legal practice. Seek out firms that specialize in immigration or offer pro bono work in that area. This hands-on experience is essential for understanding client needs and the nuances of immigration law.
3. Develop a Business Mindset:
If you aim to open your own law firm, consider gaining experience in the business aspects of law practice. Courses or workshops in legal entrepreneurship, management, and finance can prepare you to handle the administrative and strategic elements of running a firm.
4. Cultivate a Network and Seek Mentorship:
Find mentors who have experience in immigration law or who have successfully opened their own practices. Networking with professionals in your field can offer insights, guidance, and support that will be invaluable as you progress in your career.
5. Stay Committed to Your Vision:
Helping immigrant communities is a noble goal. Engage with community organizations and stay informed about immigration policies and reforms. This will not only deepen your understanding but also build trust and credibility in the community you aim to serve.
Your passion for independence and helping others can drive you to achieve great things. Stay focused, be open to learning from every experience, and remember that every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goal. You've got an amazing journey ahead!