As a first-year candidate, with only one month into my journey, I recognize that there is still much for me to learn. That being said, I would not have been able to cope without the support of the law firm Gittins Attorneys I have chosen to join. Unfortunately, this level of support is not the norm for everyone.
Understanding your role and the expectations placed upon you can be intimidating. With this in mind, I believe it is important to share my perspective as a candidate, in order to give you a clearer understanding of what you are signing up for.
During my time at university, I understood the appeal of wanting to join a larger law firm, often driven by the expectation of a higher salary. However, one downside to this is that you are typically assigned to a specific department based on the firm's needs, and you may find yourself confined to that field for the duration of your time there.
Through vacation work and real-life experience, I have come to appreciate the value of smaller law firms. In these environments, you are exposed to a broader range of legal matters and cases, which offers the opportunity to engage with various aspects of law, rather than being confined to a single field of law.
At university, it is often difficult to comprehend that what is expected to be a four-year degree can, in reality, extend to six years. While you learn the theory of law at university, you are not taught how to draft legal documents, apply that law, or handle court procedures. These are the key aspects you will face on a daily basis during your two years of articles. Furthermore, it is essential to note that you are required to complete two years of articles, during which you must attend night school, i.e. Practical Legal Training and write four board exams.
The pressure during this time is intense. Your superiors are under constant stress, and while they may sometimes snap or raise their voices, it is important to understand that it is not personal.
Tips and Advice:
Be Kind to Everyone: There will be times when you are sent to retrieve documents, only to find that you are given none of the necessary paperwork. In such cases, it is crucial to stand your ground. Never return to the office unless you have the documents you were sent to retrieve.
Listen to Your Superiors: You will be asked to do many tasks, some of which you may not want to do or may not be prepared to do. However, this is part of the job and a necessary learning experience.
Document Everything: It is essential to document every phone call and email exchanged between yourself and others. You never know when you may need to revisit those conversations or prove that they took place.
Bring a Stamped Copy Back: When you go to court to submit or file documents, always ensure you bring a stamped copy back with you. Without this, the court may claim you never submitted the documents.
Driver’s License: While some people manage to get by without a driver's license during their articles, this approach confuses me. Nearly every day, I am asked to drive to various courts, offices, or the master's office, and having a driver’s license is a crucial part of the job.
Driving to Various Locations: If you are asked to drive to a particular location, do not be discouraged. A great deal can be learned from these outings, and over time, you will become familiar with what needs to be done in order to visit these places efficiently. Make the most of these tasks by asking plenty of questions and building connections with as many people as possible, including court clerks and colleagues.
Never Burn Bridges: It is essential to maintain professional relationships with everyone you encounter. You may very well work with them again in the future, and preserving those connections can be invaluable.
Respect for Paralegals, Runners, and Admin Workers: Paralegals, runners, and administrative staff are integral to the smooth operation of a law firm. It is essential to treat them with the utmost respect and professionalism.
Organization: Stay organized and ensure that you leave the office only when you are confident that your tasks are completed. This way, you can return the following day knowing you have fulfilled your responsibilities.
Court Locations and Parking: Many courts do not have designated parking and can be challenging to navigate. It is advisable to ask colleagues in your firm, who have been to the court before, where they typically park and what steps to take once inside the courthouse.
Asking Questions: Do not hesitate to ask questions if you are uncertain about a task or procedure. It is better to be reprimanded for asking too many questions than to make a mistake due to a lack of understanding. However, ensure that you do not ask questions that can easily be answered through your own research. When in doubt, do your homework before seeking assistance.
Many individuals obtain a law degree but do not complete their articles due to the challenges faced during this period. I have found that when I am struggling or confused, seeking guidance from those around me—whether in court or at work—has been invaluable.
Articles are undeniably difficult, but it would be even harder if I did not enjoy the work I am doing. Reading, writing, and driving make up the bulk of the job, and it is important to be aware of this before embarking on your articles.
Articles represent an investment in your future. It is essential to conduct thorough research on the law firm or organization you wish to invest your time and efforts in, ensuring that this investment will be worthwhile in terms of both time and financial commitment.
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