As a newly qualified solicitor, particularly in the dynamic field of criminal law, you are standing at the start line of a journey filled with challenges and victories. This is your chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, advocate for justice and prove your mettle in the court room.
But remember, the path ahead requires more than just the knowledge you have gained during your studies and training contract.
In this blog we share some top tips and power moves to fuel your early career and set you on the path to success as a criminal lawyer.
1. Map Out Career Goals Now
It is not too early to set out both your short-term and long-term career goals now. Before you become swept up in your first year as a practising solicitor, schedule yourself personal time to map out your career plan into a document. Know yourself, your goals, your strengths, areas for improvement and timescales of when you expect to reach certain milestones within your career.
2. Master the Basics
Nailing the basics from the start will set you in good stead for a successful legal career. Before your caseloads get too busy, make sure that you have developed your communications skills, organisation, attention to detail and interpersonal skills. Be the master of your firm’s practice management system, time-recording software and any other programmes that you need to use day-to-day.
3. Stay Updated
In a landscape that’s perpetually evolving, proactive learning is your greatest asset. Regularly consume leading legal journals, participate in cutting-edge seminars, and seek out advanced training opportunities. Every piece of knowledge fortifies your capability, boosting your confidence and effectiveness in defending your clients. Whilst your brain is still in tune with learning and taking in large amounts of information, keep learning by attending webinars, workshops and any additional training courses that you can go to. Stay up to date with criminal law legislation, court and police matters by joining the CLSA and receiving the latest e-alerts to keep you up to date.
4. Get a Mentor
Finding someone who can either officially or unofficially act as your mentor can be invaluable. Your professional mentor could be someone within your law firm, at a different practice, or a connection made on LinkedIn. A mentor can provide guidance, share their own experience, give you practical tips and offer support. It is sensible to also pick someone who is a few years ahead of you in their legal journey, so that you have an inspirational role model.
5. Grow Your Confidence
As a newly qualified solicitor, walking into the courtroom can be intimidating, but your confidence can be your most powerful weapon! Ensure that you are regularly challenging your comfort zone to grow in confidence. Networking, public speaking or taking part in mock trials can help you to develop confidence. Observe seasoned solicitors, dissect their techniques, and learn from their courtroom finesse. Remember, confidence stems from your unwavering belief in yourself.
6. Start with Good Habits
The life of a criminal law solicitor will be stressful, challenging and rewarding. Getting into some good habits early on can save you time, reduce your stress and help you to take care of your personal wellbeing. Set clear boundaries, adopt a healthy routine, delegate, collaborate and ask for support.
7. Establish Yourself and Build a Professional Network
To make a name for yourself as a respected solicitor you need to put in some work. Raise your profile internally within your firm by seeking out opportunities, volunteering, attending socials, speaking up at meetings and consistently delivering to impress. Become a member of key legal associations and join networking groups so that you can build up your black book of useful contacts. If you are not already, get active on LinkedIn too! Befriend your firm’s marketing department – they can help you raise your profile.
8. Always Ask Questions
As an NQ, your learning doesn’t stop. Always speak up, ask questions and access help. Whether its on billing or technical help with a case, get comfortable with asking questions, as this will be how you develop as a solicitor. One day someone will be coming to you for answers and you can pass the knowledge on.
9. Understand Your Options
With a long career ahead of you, it is crucial to be happy with where you are working and the career progression or opportunities available. Study your firms career pathways, if there is not a clear process, speak to your department head or managing partner about what your opportunities are. It can be overwhelming to think about changing firms after you qualify but ensure that you are working in the right environment where you can thrive.
10. Enjoy Yourself
It is equally important to give the same amount of energy to your home life as you do when carving out your legal career. You have worked hard to get to this position and as an NQ, it is important to enjoy yourself, have downtime and ensure that you maintain relationships with your family and friends. Enjoy this exciting stage in all areas of your life.
Further advice for junior solicitors can be found here.