Reality Check: The Legal Lessons Every New Lawyer Needs To Know

Learning the law and practising law are vastly different. The transition from classroom to courtroom brings lessons that no textbook prepares you for. Here is what I have learnt so far:

💡Not Everyone Is Your Friend and Not Everyone is To Be Trusted

Each morning, as I look at my Court list, I have one of the following emotions:

·         Relief: “Thank god it’s you!”

·         Dread: “Oh god it’s you!”

One of the hardest lessons I have had to accept is that not everyone is going to like you… and that is okay!

I have encountered aggressive lawyers, disgruntled clients, demanding Judges and even disrespectful colleagues. Clashes are inevitable, whether that is due to differing approaches or personalities.

More importantly, everyone has their own agenda, and no one will be in your corner but you. Over time, I am learning who I can trust and who I cannot. Some will sniff out the unfamiliarity from you and attempt to mislead, overwhelm or undermine you. Stay professional and never accept things at face value.

Remember – you are the first person they will throw under the bus if needed.

💡Every Move you Make Is Under the Microscope

No matter how confident you are, every decision you make will be scrutinised, questioned, and picked apart.

As someone who is new to the career, and to life, I have heard it all: “Come back to me with when you’ve got some life experience” or “Are you really sure about that.” Each remark chips away at my confidence, fuelling doubt and frustration.

I usually give a polite reminder that there is a reason why I am sat in the position I am – that way I am showing resilience and the ability to stand firm under pressure. Surprisingly, I have found that I have gained the trust, confidence, and respect from others for doing that.

💡Winning Isn’t Always An Option

We all want to strive for justice, but sometimes achieving a perfect outcome is not possible.

I have had to make tough decisions, I have encouraged compromises, and spent the day putting out fires. Some situations offer nothing more than a lose-lose choice, all you can do is the best you can do in the circumstances you are in.

If you have any other tips then leave a comment below!📩