Almost all law school students envision how life will be after graduation. Everyone has heard stories of success and horror, and you do your best to avoid the unexpected. While each graduate’s experiences are different, there are a few things you may not have expected.

Gaining Respect
You have your law degree and passed the bar, but this does not mean you will immediately have the respect of other attorneys, judges, and even clients. As a new attorney, others may question your expertise. Opposing attorneys will take advantage of your inexperience and try to convince you that certain arguments or practices will not succeed. Many judges will be biased toward more experienced attorneys, merely because they question your knowledge. This lack of respect can be frustrating, but through perseverance and hard work, you will gain the respect needed to be successful. Use your internships to your advantage and show through more credentials how you can support your clients.

Feeling Overwhelmed
As you begin your practice, you will have moments where you feel overwhelmed. Dealing with real-world problems and real people is much different than the hypothetical situations you analyzed in law school. Money is on the line, and clients place their trust in you to achieve a result. This pressure can create stress and anxiety, largely because you can only control so much. With time, you hopefully will be able to manage these feelings. Try to find ways to relax and manage your time and schedule. With time and experience you can find a situation that works.

Lifelong Friends
Working closely with various lawyers, clients, and judges will often result in development of lifelong friendships. Perhaps one of the most unique things about the practice of law, is that you can go to court and vigorously argue against another attorney, yet still have a meaningful and fun relationship outside the courthouse. As you work closely with others, you will often find common interests and go through trying experiences. Don’t be afraid to reach out and network. These colleagues will likely stay with you for your entire career.

Your Education is Never Done
Many law school graduates celebrate the mistaken idea that there will be no more schooling. The practice of law involves almost daily learning. You will constantly encounter new legal questions, which will require research and analytical thinking and you will learn more through actual practice than you can imagine. You will have opportunities to learn about unique areas of law and most state bars will require continuing legal education hours, where you will have the opportunity to learn about various legal topics. Sites like Talks on Law can be good for helping refresh you on some basics and give you a better understanding of common legal instances you might encounter.

Life after law school can be stressful, overwhelming, yet very fulfilling. Best of luck to all recent graduates!

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Email:  General Information   |   Dr. Daniel de Roulet   |   Prof. David C. Pecoraro

Thank you!

Daniel & David

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What No One Told You about Life after Law School