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What did you do to get ahead in your law career ?
#law #lawyer #law-school #career-choice
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8 answers
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Ching’s Answer
In addition to all the wonderful advice already provided in this thread, I would also suggest being open towards any assignment. Certainly, don't be shy to ask for work and ask how you can help on a certain project before help is even requested. The willingness to learn, dedication, and proactiveness are all positive traits to demonstrate an eager mind.
Thank you !
Munyah
Updated
Kent’s Answer
I agree with the other answers provided, and I would emphasize the following from my personal experience: (1) learn as much as you can about the area of law that you want to practice; (2) find a good mentor or two and learn from them (and they may help advance your career); and (3) get as much legal experience as you can and be flexible about the work you do early in your career -- work that isn't glamorous or well compensated (it may not pay any $ at all) can be a stepping stone to getting ahead in your law career. Best of luck to you!
Thank you for your great advice.
Munyah
Updated
David’s Answer
To get ahead in a law career, you must prepare yourself to the following thing such as willing to put in the time (long hours), effort, energy, study and you must be willing do everything beyond your desire. When I pursued in the field of legal and law, I volunteered a lot from working in a law firm to working in a justice center which I spend a lot of time reading, listening, running, and more to understand and learn what I need to be prepare in the field. You will be looking a numerous hours of preparing with a limit of time to rest. The actual work was not interesting at all and there is a lot of other thing you can take on in order to get the feel of the legal/law system and also willingness to take those kinds of unwilling assignments to help you build on your credibility which eventually led to more interesting work. Be a good listener and takes note, you will learn from more experienced attorneys and even support staff. This is a better approach and good practice rather then trying to prove that you already know it all, sometimes acting and being dumb does not hurt you at the moment because you maybe advance than them in certain way once you are really in the system, there you can show them back what you are about.
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Nancy’s Answer
To get ahead in a legal career, you must be willing to put in the time, i.e., long hours, and you must be willing to take the less desirable assignments. In other words, say "yes" to everything you can manage. As a young lawyer, I volunteered to drive long distances to perform document reviews. The actual work was not interesting at all, but someone had to do it. I also agreed to take court appearances that were far away and in off beat locations. I think that my willingness to take those kinds of assignments, helped build my credibility which eventually led to more interesting work, including first chair trial assignments. Be a good listener, and you will learn from more experienced attorneys and even support staff. This is a better approach then trying to prove that you already know it all, which can be off putting and will not likely advance your career,
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Dalene’s Answer
Having a well-thought-out plan is crucial. Take the time to understand what your chosen field entails by talking to professionals already working in it. This will help you figure out the kind of education and possibly, specific degrees or certifications you might need. Don't hesitate to explore scholarships and financial aid, and remember, it's okay to ask for help!
Take a moment to reflect on your likes and dislikes. Finding your passion doesn't always happen in a dramatic flash of inspiration. Sometimes, it's as simple as understanding what activities you enjoy and which ones you don't. Ask yourself: Are you a detail-oriented person? Do you prefer working in a team or flying solo? Do you enjoy researching and studying, or are you more of a doer?
Consider securing an internship or some form of work experience to get a taste of what your chosen job is like. Seek opportunities to shadow professionals in the field, even if it's just for a day or two. This will give you a glimpse into a typical workday. Also, keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities in your area of interest.
Take some time to define what success means to you. Is it earning a hefty paycheck? Is it making a difference in people's lives? Or perhaps it's living in a place you've always dreamed of?
Building relationships is key. Find individuals who are successful in the field you're interested in and engage them in conversation. Learn about their journey, their experiences, and how they've reached their current position. Ask for their advice. You'll find that most people are more than willing to lend a helping hand when given the opportunity.
Take a moment to reflect on your likes and dislikes. Finding your passion doesn't always happen in a dramatic flash of inspiration. Sometimes, it's as simple as understanding what activities you enjoy and which ones you don't. Ask yourself: Are you a detail-oriented person? Do you prefer working in a team or flying solo? Do you enjoy researching and studying, or are you more of a doer?
Consider securing an internship or some form of work experience to get a taste of what your chosen job is like. Seek opportunities to shadow professionals in the field, even if it's just for a day or two. This will give you a glimpse into a typical workday. Also, keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities in your area of interest.
Take some time to define what success means to you. Is it earning a hefty paycheck? Is it making a difference in people's lives? Or perhaps it's living in a place you've always dreamed of?
Building relationships is key. Find individuals who are successful in the field you're interested in and engage them in conversation. Learn about their journey, their experiences, and how they've reached their current position. Ask for their advice. You'll find that most people are more than willing to lend a helping hand when given the opportunity.
Updated
Sharyn’s Answer
Actively engage in networking by dedicating time to familiarize yourself with individuals from various legal sectors that pique your interest. Discuss your roles and responsibilities while learning about theirs. Express your desire to broaden your horizons beyond your current job scope. Participate in external groups, like LinkedIn or corporate advisory boards, to stay current with industry trends and global developments. Make it a point to attend pertinent conferences within your field and other areas that interest you.
Seek out a mentor, if possible. Spend time with experts, listen attentively, and ask insightful questions. Don't waste energy trying to reinvent the wheel; instead, utilize the resources available to you.
General guidance:
Exercise discretion in how you allocate your time. Avoid the temptation to consume every piece of communication unless it's directly relevant and beneficial to your job and future aspirations. It's easy to feel swamped and fall into the trap of believing you're not keeping pace with the influx of information.
Don't hesitate to establish yourself as a reliable resource that others can turn to for assistance.
Seek out a mentor, if possible. Spend time with experts, listen attentively, and ask insightful questions. Don't waste energy trying to reinvent the wheel; instead, utilize the resources available to you.
General guidance:
Exercise discretion in how you allocate your time. Avoid the temptation to consume every piece of communication unless it's directly relevant and beneficial to your job and future aspirations. It's easy to feel swamped and fall into the trap of believing you're not keeping pace with the influx of information.
Don't hesitate to establish yourself as a reliable resource that others can turn to for assistance.
Updated
Fiona’s Answer
There are many many different areas of law and they are vastly different. When you begin your degree, try to seize every opportunity to try out different areas of law - for example, you can apply to different internships with law firms (international firms will normally specialise in corporate / finance matters, whilst smaller firms may specialise in commercial / family / property matters), try out mini-pupillages with barrister chambers (I am not sure if the system applies where you are, but common law system will distinguish between solicitors and barristers). Try out the different areas and choose something you are good at and are interested in.
Be prepared to work hard. For the first six years of my career I was hardly ever home before mid night. It is tough because the learning curve in many areas is often very steep. But it does get much better after that and it is simply a stage that most lawyers have to go through.
Be prepared to work hard. For the first six years of my career I was hardly ever home before mid night. It is tough because the learning curve in many areas is often very steep. But it does get much better after that and it is simply a stage that most lawyers have to go through.
Updated
Mary’s Answer
To thrive and progress in your professional journey, it's essential to showcase your achievements and skills. In simpler terms, don't shy away from making your presence felt. Of course, delivering quality work, exhibiting dependability, accountability, and a strong commitment to your role and organization are the foundations of job retention. However, to scale greater heights, it's crucial to champion your own cause and voice your career goals.
Volunteer for extra tasks or projects, forge meaningful relationships, and seek mentorship. Embrace opportunities to work in diverse areas beyond your immediate role and maintain an open and adaptable mindset towards new experiences. Change is an inevitable part of life, so learning to be comfortable with it is key.
Remember, your path to the top may not always be linear; it often resembles a spiral. Moreover, never hesitate to ask questions or seek assistance and direction. Your willingness to learn can be your biggest strength.
Volunteer for extra tasks or projects, forge meaningful relationships, and seek mentorship. Embrace opportunities to work in diverse areas beyond your immediate role and maintain an open and adaptable mindset towards new experiences. Change is an inevitable part of life, so learning to be comfortable with it is key.
Remember, your path to the top may not always be linear; it often resembles a spiral. Moreover, never hesitate to ask questions or seek assistance and direction. Your willingness to learn can be your biggest strength.