New Attorneys: Learn How to Rock at Your Job and Justify a Raise!

So, the dilemma...you've landed a job and you have a project to complete, but relying on your law school experience just is not getting the job done quick enough. You don't know where to go, what exactly to write, how your boss or the Judge wants it written, what to file, what to say to your clients, how to prepare an oral argument that is persuasive without looking like you are in moot court, conduct a deposition, pick a jury, Ahhh!....It can be so overwhelming and, yet, you don't want it to take a year to gain the experience you need now!

            The good news is...it's the problem most of us face during the time we are finally ready to impress the world with our talents! In law school we had professors, before the bar exam we had prep courses, but then what?!? Sure, if we are fortunate enough to land a job, we are granted a learning curve but it is up to us to determine whether we end up impressing or frustrating those watching and relying on us. The better news is there are tips and tricks to learn all the answers to your questions, and learn fast. You just need to know which resources to tap so that you get the credit and convince those that count that you rock at your job. One of the best resources is other young attorneys that have already battled the same issues and have come out shining. Look for successful young attorneys that are a few years ahead of you and offer to take them out for a drink! Ask them this: "What are the top 5 things you desperately wanted to know the answers to when you first started out but had to learn the hard way?" Also, in exchange for the 2^nd round, ask whether they'd mind if you hit them up with questions in a quick call or email every once in awhile as you navigate your way through your first couple years. It could end up being the most valuable resource you have starting out - all the while getting full credit for the ideas at your job! All this for the price of a couple drinks! For more specific tips and tricks from my first few years, visit www.greatyoungattorney.com

Katharine Hooker is the founder of  Great Young Attorney, Inc. www.greatyoungattorney.com.  Ms. Hooker has focused her legal career exclusively in the area of family law, particularly litigation.  She received her Bachelor's Degree from Azusa Pacific University, graduating cum laude. She graduated from Regent University School of Law and was admitted to practice law in 2006. She is licensed to practice law in all California Courts.  Ms. Hooker is a member of the American Bar Association and American Bar Family Law Section, the California Bar Association and California Bar Family Law Section, the Alameda County Bar Association, the Alameda County Family Law Association. Ms. Hooker currently serves on the Board of Directors for the California Young Lawyers Association (CYLA), Section of the CA State Bar.  She is a member and past President of the Eastern Alameda County Bar Association.

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