Job Responsibilities
As a solo practitioner I manage all office functions, including
purchasing all supplies and services, and supervise a clerk, an
assistant, and occasionally additional lawyers. At the same time
I devote full time to client needs.
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Job Requirements
After college and graduate school (pharmacology), I was in
business for approximately 20 years, primarily as COO and/or CEO.
At some point I felt unfulfilled and decided on a new career. A
series of events and conversations, including the offer of a
scholarship to law school, led me in that direction. It is a
direction I have not regretted following.
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Uppers
I enjoy the satisfaction of addressing clients' stressful situations and
achieving best possible outcomes. Probably the best feeling comes from hearing a
client or, even more importantly, a judge compliment my work.
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Downers
Because a lawyer's clients come first, there are times when hours
are very long and stress can be extreme. There are also times
when you have to realize that the best outcome for the client is
not a "win," and you have to explain the weaknesses of a client's
position as well as the strengths.
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Lifestyle
Being an attorney requires considerable networking, especially with other
attorneys and, in a civil practice like mine, potential clients. The need to
service clients limits time available for vacations, but the ability to flexible
schedule work time allows for being with one's family on important occasions.
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Compensation
As a solo practitioner I have to "eat what I kill." The first
years of practice are difficult because there is limited income
and increased expenses until a client and referral base is
developed. Once the income stabilizes (low to mid six figures in
my case) the profession provides a very comfortable lifestyle in
which you meet and get to know many very interesting people.
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Advice to Jobseekers
Don't do it if you're not dedicated to the law or too easily
frustrated. Associate yourself with attorneys of good personal
and professional quality. Don't hesitate to ask more experienced
lawyers for advice and mentoring. Most are glad to do it. Also,
be prepared to work hard when needed and relax when possible.
This is an all consuming profession where you may well dream about
your cases.
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