Students: Associate Life

Tips on Making the Transition from Student to Associate

Making the Transition 

You made it!  You have successfully been called to the bar and you have accepted a job offer at a firm. Now what?  As you transition from student to associate, there are several things that you should keep in mind.

Tip #1:  Get Organized

You may have been able to pull all-nighters and survive on coffee as a student, but as an associate, you will need solid time management skills to stay on top of everything and prevent burnout. Prioritization is a must.  Learn how to filter emails, create to-do lists, and establish procedures that work for you. An investment of time upfront will cut down on inefficiencies and reduce stress in the future.

Tip #2: Build Relationships

Develop a good relationship with your assistant and other support staff from the start. Keeping your team in the loop helps you stay organized and keeps those around you interested and supportive. Effective team building also requires looking to your assistant and others for input.  Chances are, you can learn a lot from their experience.

Tip #3: Be Proactive

Communication is key. Let people know what types of files you want and ask for those opportunities. Once you have the file, don’t be afraid to ask for help from other associates or partners with whom you are working. It’s also up to you to let people know when you are at your limit, or when you are struggling with an issue.  Most lawyers are happy to help when they know you need it. 

Tip #4: Take Ownership

As a student, you would often work on a portion of a file, hand it back to the responsible lawyer, and never see it again.  Now you are the responsible lawyer. Walking through the process, timelines, and client requirements with the supervising partner will help you manage the progression of the file. Then, keep the partner informed. This will help you to avoid making mistakes.

However, mistakes will happen…

Tip #5: Making Mistakes

One thing is guaranteed.  You will make mistakes. How you address a mistake is what’s important. Deal with issues upfront, take responsibility, and don't beat yourself up.  This will help you learn from your mistakes, which will make you a better lawyer.

Tip #6: Get Involved

As a lawyer you will spend many hours at the office.  Part of creating a work/life balance is developing friendships and connections within your firm. By attending social events, serving on committees, and attending networking events with colleagues, your sense of community – and well-being – will grow.

Tip #7: “A” for Effort

Your ongoing priority is to do the best job you can for your clients. This builds trust with the partner you work with, develops your reputation as a capable lawyer, and ultimately leads to more meaningful and challenging work.

So there you have it.  We hope you will find these tips useful as you make your transition from student to associate. What’s next?  Partnership, of course!