Guest post from Elaina Bailes, committee member of the London Solicitors Litigation Association and partner at Stewarts, and Lauren Gest, committee member of the Junior London Solicitors Litigation Association and legal counsel at Johnson Matthey
Elaina Bailes
Starting out as a junior lawyer can be daunting, with the challenge of balancing the demanding day-to-day responsibilities, honing legal skills, and engaging in profile-raising activities.
Alongside this, maintaining mental and physical well-being can feel like a constant balancing act. So, speaking from our senior and junior perspectives, how should new lawyers go about building a lasting career?
Identify your niche
The legal profession is evolving rapidly and, with companies increasingly seeking to cut costs, in-house roles for junior lawyers are on the rise. The career path is no longer strictly linear, offering a range of opportunities that cater to diverse interests and skill sets.
Whether you choose private practice or an in-house role – each with its own demands and benefits – there are numerous pathways to explore.
Develop your professional identity
From the start, think about the type of lawyer you want to become. This isn’t about following a predefined path but rather about establishing your own unique niche. Leverage your strengths within your team and work on areas for improvement. As you advance, focus on how you want to be perceived by clients and within the industry.
Be physically present
Despite the advantages of working virtually, being in the office still holds significant value. Being physically present allows for learning through observation, engaging in spontaneous conversations, and building a professional presence.
When remote work is unavoidable, make an extra effort to stay visible and proactive – don’t hesitate to make phone calls to stay connected.
Stay open-minded
Avoid harsh judgments of others and strive to build trust. Everyone faces challenges and continues to learn throughout their career. Recognise that even experienced lawyers may be dealing with their own pressures. Address unacceptable behavior constructively and seek appropriate channels to foster an inclusive workplace.
Lauren Gest
Prioritise quality over speed
The saying ‘quality over quantity’ is particularly relevant in the legal field. Avoid compromising the quality of your work just to meet deadlines, especially internal ones that might be flexible. If you need more time, communicate this to manage expectations and prevent any potential disappointments.
Communicate effectively
Tailoring your communication to your audience is crucial. Pay attention to how your drafting and presentations are received by clients, supervisors, and colleagues.
Understand each client’s preferences and objectives, and don’t hesitate to seek feedback – remember, providing feedback can be as challenging for supervisors as receiving it is for you.
Network strategically
Networking might seem intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to build valuable connections. Identify relevant networking groups for your career stage, such as the Junior London Solicitors Litigation Association for junior litigators or the Law Society’s In-house Network for in-house lawyers. A strong network supports your career growth and well-being.
Be patient
Avoid making hasty career decisions. The legal profession is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s never too late to change direction. While it’s natural to feel pressure to advance quickly, remember that the legal field offers many transferable skills and opportunities for growth. If you face setbacks, approach them logically and work towards resolving them.
Acknowledge your mistakes
Mistakes are part of the learning process for everyone. The key is to address them effectively. Ideally, inform a senior colleague right away with a solution. If you’re unsure how to resolve an issue, act promptly and openly – sometimes a genuine apology can be very effective.
Prioritise your wellbeing
Burnout is a significant issue in the legal industry. Establish non-negotiables for your mental and physical health early on. Communicate your boundaries to colleagues and managers – they will appreciate your commitment to self-care.
Even during busy periods, make time for activities like exercise, healthy meals and social interactions, as these are essential for long-term health and resilience.
By embracing these tips, junior lawyers can navigate their early careers more effectively, paving the way for long-term success and fulfillment in their profession.
Leave a Comment