We Asked, You Answered: Advice for Those New to the Legal Profession!

If you could send a message to yourself back when you first became an attorney, what one piece of advice would you give to yourself? Our members offer their perspective for those considering or new to the legal profession.

Many members encouraged those new to the profession to ensure they are in it for the right reasons and have their eyes open to the realities of the profession, finding the right practice area, and building a new career. Of course, there is a lot of advice on client interactions, courtroom behavior, and building relationships with others in the profession.

Work Life Balance & Perspective

Learn how to balance work and life…. Work will always be there. Family/Friend relationships need as much energy and time as your work.

Kristin S. Camp, Esq., Buckley Brion McGuire & Morris LLP

Do not sweat the small stuff and look at the bigger picture. Also, work on developing a thicker skin sooner than later.

Rami Bishay, Esq.,Cox & Bishay, LLP

Listen to the “Little Voice” in your head. Call it intuition, inner dialogue, that little voice inside of ourselves whispering words that we may or may not care to hear. Consider what you hear – what you are telling yourself – and decide whether to set boundaries or walk away from a difficult situation rather than prolong something that is less than ideal.

Richard N. Lipow, Esq.

In addition to the advice focused on the profession, there is also the ever-present focus on Work-Life Balance to ensure a new professional enjoys what he or she is doing and keeps some focus on family and friends outside of professional life.

Our members are always full of candor. While the profession has been fulfilling to a majority, there are some who provide warnings to really, really, really make sure that the legal profession is the right path.

Don’t be so hard on yourself!

Brendan Burke, Esq.

Most of the stress comes from taking on more than you can do. Learn to turn away work or refer it to others when it begins to pile up.

Edward M. Foley, Esq., Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP