Whether you're just beginning your journey in the field or looking for a fresh perspective on your legal career, our DRI members have some advice to share. Read on to set yourself up on the path to success in your career.
Starting a legal career is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially for new graduates. Making the leap from the classroom to real-world practice isn’t always easy. Fortunately, many experienced attorneys are ready and enthusiastic to offer guidance and support.
We reached out to DRI members once again for their best piece of advice for new lawyers, and many of the things they said can be applied to other career paths or aspects of life, as well.
Read on to learn what our members have to say.
Eager for more? Check out our previous blog on this topic.
Plus, check out our New Lawyer November campaign to learn how you can join DRI for FREE as a Young Lawyer member by December 15th!
“Get involved in a professional organization early and use the tools that they provide to hone your craft. DRI has those tools that will enable you to stand out in your civil defense area of practice.”
— David A. Anderson, Shareholder at Richardson Plowden & Robinson and Mid-Atlantic Regional Director of DRI
“Consider putting a one-minute delay on all your e-mails. (This has saved me a LOT of heartburn over the years.)”
— Freddie E. (Trey) Bourn III, Partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings and a National Director of DRI
“Learn to be confident in your work and your skills. Be prepared to stand up for your work and your legal analysis.”
— Jody C. Corbett, Assistant Chief Counsel at the City of Phoenix and a National Director of DRI
“Don’t shy away from a challenge. In fact, seek them out—a tough oral argument, a solo trial, a speaking opportunity, a new leadership role, a complex brief. There is no better way to learn than to actually get out there and try. You will be less than perfect at first, but better and better each time. And, your confidence as an advocate and professional will shine through in all aspects of your career. There is no more satisfying feeling than doing something hard, and doing it well.”
— Michelle Thurber Czapski, a Member at Bodman and a National Director of DRI
“Always ask questions. When you receive an assignment, make sure you understand what you are being asked to do. Start your project and then ask more questions, such as If you discover new arguments, ask if they should be included. Complete your project and then ask more questions, like can I help with the rest of this file or handle more work with this client. When you get involved in things outside your firm or practice, like DRI, ask “What can I do to get and stay involved?”. As long as you keep asking questions and keep responding to what is asked of you, you will have a fulfilling practice.”
— R. Jeffrey Lowe, Partner at Kightlinger & Gray and President of DRI
“Look for mentors. Not all experienced lawyers are cut out to be mentors, but the ones who are can help you in every way, both in your actual work and in the professional development and involvement that makes our career rewarding. Getting involved in an organization like DRI provides exposure to all kinds of leaders and mentors, and all you have to do is say ‘Yes!’ when an opportunity for involvement comes along. Leadership will definitely take notice.”
— J. Richard Moore, Shareholder at Bleeke Dillon Crandall and a National Director of DRI
“Never forget that it is a privilege to practice law. We get to stand for justice on our clients’ behalves every day. The days are long and the work is hard, but our clients are all worth it.”
— Rachel Tallon Reynolds, Partner at Wilson Elser and Northwest Director of DRI
"Pick up the phone or go talk to someone. Too many people resort to texting and emailing when a personal conversation would be better. Unfortunately, both people lose the opportunity to build the relationship. Choose the relationship, particularly when there is a difficult or tricky issue that needs to be addressed."
— Jill Cranston Rice, Partner at Dinsmore & Shohl and President-Elect of DRI
DRI has many resources for those who are new to practicing law or new to specific practice areas. Our Young Lawyers Committee provides its members with the best professional development, high-quality CLE programs, and networking opportunities of any legal organization.
Don’t forget! By December 15th, you can join DRI as a Young Lawyer member for FREE. Learn more about this initiative and join the DRI community before this special offer ends!
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