We asked Alumni: What do you wish you had known at the start of your law career?
Here is what they shared:
- Explore Alternative Legal Careers
- Value Early Client Interaction
- Invest in Professional Growth
- Ask Good Questions as Counsel
Explore Alternative Legal Careers
As a professional in the legal industry and an ASU alumnus, I would like to share some valuable insights with current students who are interested in pursuing a career in law and justice.
I believe it’s important to consider all options when it comes to achieving your aspirations, especially if law school is not a viable option due to financial constraints or other reasons. I urge you to explore alternative paths, such as the paralegal route, which can lead to many fulfilling opportunities in the legal field. As someone who graduated with a BA in Justice Studies in 2017, I can assure you that there are many ways to make a difference and contribute to the world of justice. I hope you find this information helpful and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Katyna Rembis, B.A. Justice Studies in ‘17, Paralegal, San Diego District Attorney’s Office
Value Early Client Interaction
From working in the legal field for almost five years, I have learned that there is no substitute for experience. I work in a small town and have had my own cases basically since I started my practice, and that has been invaluable for me. I have learned how to interact with clients, something that is not really taught in law school. Obviously, small-town practice is not for everyone, but I think the quicker you can have in-person interactions with clients, the better off you will be.
Matthew Rich, B.S. Economics ‘14, Attorney, Mears Hausmann PA
Invest in Professional Growth
The study of law (and passing the bar) is much different from the practice of law. If you invest in yourself and take professional growth seriously, being an attorney is a career, not a job. New attorneys need time, experience, and opportunity to learn about the craft and to grow. Don’t be afraid to lean in, but also have the humility to know that you are at the beginning of the journey. It’s going to take 10,000 hours (billed or unbilled) before you start to ‘get it.’ Lastly, the legal community is a small and insular group. Safeguard your reputation as a practitioner and be mindful of your reputation as an employee, partner, or manager.
Joshua Offenhartz, JD ‘15, Attorney, Knoeller Nebeker Carlson and Haluck
Ask Good Questions as Counsel
When it comes to legal counsel, people often want answers. However, it is equally important to ask good questions. Good counsel requires careful consideration of, for example, interests, risks, and resources. Always be curious and take a solution-based approach.
Zach Hubbell, JD ‘19, VP of Legal
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