New Lawyer Tips from “What I Wish I Knew My First 5 Years of Practice” panel

I recently spoke on a panel entitled “What I Wish I Knew My First 5 Years of Practice”. In preparing material for the panel I developed a list of tips for new lawyers.  Here you go, you are welcome.

New Lawyer Tips

• Free time? Go to court; sit in on different types of hearings/trials relating to your practice area. If you’re bold enough speak with a few of the attorneys you watched.
• Make an outline of how you see each new case you get progressing. Fill in with anything unexpected. Helps to manage expectations and time.
• Talk through cases with other attorneys. Find a few attorneys you trust to talk with on cases you may need additional input on
• Budget – plan for costs of the case to make sure you and your client can afford it.
• Ask for help! Don’t be afraid of what you don’t know ask for help when you need it
• Create a “pleadings bank” for your reference with samples of different motions and other pleadings.
• Learn to network effectively. There is more to networking than walking around handing out business cards.
• Don’t be afraid to spend money to build your practice or brand. There are plenty of ways to get what you need for a low price, research your options.
• Get involved. The State Bar, County bars, and Minority bars all have ways to get involved. Find one that fits for you.
• Don’t be afraid of change. If you realize something is not working–your practice area, your job, your methods—make a change.