Starting out in the legal profession can feel both exciting and intimidating. Law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer but does not prepare you for the practical side of practicing law. Whether you’re working in a large firm, a small practice, or embarking on a solo career, here are five tips to help you thrive:

1. Invest in Relationships

Nobody gets there on their own. The most successful lawyers you meet will have had a mentor along the way. They will have relied on the expertise and encouragement of others to get where they are. Building strong professional relationships early in your career can provide invaluable support and opportunities over time.

• Network within and outside your firm: Attend bar association events, legal seminars, and community gatherings to meet colleagues and potential clients.
• Find mentors: Cultivate relationships with experienced attorneys inside and outside your firm who can provide guidance and referrals.
• Develop client relationships: Treat every client interaction as an opportunity to establish trust and demonstrate your commitment to their needs. Repeat clients are necessary to build your book of business.

2. Hone Your Legal Skills

Never stop learning. Expertise in a given practice area will give you an advantage when representing clients. Through self-study, continuing education courses, and mentoring, you will become an expert in your area of practice. 

• Embrace lifelong learning: Stay current with changes in laws, regulations, and industry trends through CLE courses, webinars, and legal publications.
• Seek feedback: Constructive criticism from supervisors and peers can help you improve your work and avoid repeating mistakes.

3. Focus on Client Communication

The number one complaint of clients is the lawyer’s failure to keep the client adequately informed. Poor client communication not only results in loss of business, but also increases the likelihood of malpractice claims, ethics complaints, and negative reviews.

• Set expectations up front: Tell the client how you would like to communicate. Do you prefer email, telephone, or text messages? Should the client contact your administrative assistant for certain questions? 
• Listen actively: Demonstrating that you’ve truly understood a client’s concerns or a partner’s instructions can set you apart. Determine at the outset of every representation what the client hopes to accomplish.
• Give the client a realistic assessment of value of the case and a timeline for the representation: Be realistic. Do not overpromise. If you are realistic on the front-end, you will have a much more positive relationship with the client.

4. Commit to Professionalism and Integrity

Your reputation and professional integrity is more important than anything else in your practice. Guard yours carefully by upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

• Be honest: Transparency with clients, colleagues, and the court builds trust and credibility.
• Handle mistakes gracefully: If you make an error, address it promptly and professionally. The State Bar requires prompt notification to clients when you make a material mistake on a client matter. 
• Maintain confidentiality: Upholding attorney-client privilege and confidentiality is paramount to maintaining trust and compliance with ethical rules. The State Bar defines confidentiality to include all information obtained by a lawyer during the representation. Familiarize yourself with Rule 1.6 and the exceptions under Rule 1.6(b).

5. Invest in Your Well-Being

Substance abuse, mental health issues, and burnout are at an all-time high in the profession. If you want to have a successful and happy career, you must prioritize your own well-being.

• Practice self-care: Prioritize sleep, exercise, and mindfulness to sustain your energy and focus.
• Seek support: If you are struggling, reach out for help from a therapist or the North Carolina Lawyers Assistance Program. There is no shame in asking for help. 
• Maintain work-life balance: Set boundaries to protect time for family, hobbies, and relaxation. When you are feeling burned out, take a break to recharge.

Final Thoughts

Developing a successful practice takes time and intention. By focusing on building relationships, developing expertise in your practice area(s), maintaining professionalism, and practicing self-care, you will create a strong foundation for a rewarding career. Remember, your law life is a journey, not a destination. Find ways to appreciate and enjoy the small steps along the way.