You studied hard in law school, successfully navigated a summer program or externship and passed the bar exam. But how do new associates survive as lawyers in the “real world”?
1. Don’t be afraid to be a new associate. While being prepared is incredibly important, it is OK not to know everything — no one does. Supervising attorneys know that new associates need training. A first-year associate who is uncertain about an assignment should ask questions and seek clarification. Specific, thoughtful inquiries demonstrate attention to the matter at hand and a recognition of one’s limits as a brand-new practitioner.
