How to Choose The Right Firm For You

Coming up with one final option can be a little scary. Sometimes you may wonder, is what I’m choosing the best? Did I make a good decision? How do I know I’ve made a good decision? How can I choose the right firm for me?

There are a lot of aspects to consider when choosing anything. And this includes selecting the right firm for you. So to go back to the question, how can you choose the right firm for yourself? In this article, we will be giving you all the tips and tricks to ensure you pick the firm that’s for you.

#1 Will you be able to strike a good work-life balance?

Burnout is becoming more of a problem in the legal industry, with some stressed-out lawyers seeking the help of companies specializing in assisting lawyers in adapting to new jobs. One of the most common reasons given as an explanation in both situations is the challenge attorneys confront in keeping a healthy work/life balance.

You’ll get your idea of a healthy work/life balance. Some people love working late at night to research complicated cases, while others like more reasonable hours with plenty of time for personal responsibilities. Make sure that a chosen law firm can accommodate your vision of a healthy work/life balance. This is especially important for people who want to consider a partner visa and start a family.

#2 Is joining this firm going to help you advance your career?

Employees switch careers 11–12 times on average over their lives. So think of where you dream of being in a decade or more, not just over the next few months or years. If you have a clear idea of your professional objectives, make sure the organization you’re considering will assist you in achieving them.

This may include making sure you’re learning the proper skills, focusing on the correct topics, gaining the appropriate background, or connecting with the right people. Several companies have formed professional development efforts, particularly those with established programs for graduates. Just be sure that your profession will expand rather than be limited to the chosen company.

#3 Who are the customers?

If you work for a major firm, you may be responsible for handling connections with legal advisers from similarly large companies. You might work closely with people on private affairs if you work for a small law practice. When you operate in-house, your ‘customer’ is essentially the company employing you.

The choices are unlimited, so think about who you’d enjoy dealing with and whether the firm you’re looking at can link you with that kind of client.

#4 Will you be practicing in a field that fascinates you?

There are various legal areas of practice in which you can specialize. If you have a distinct feeling of which one of these intrigues you the best, it’s worth looking for companies that will help you pursue your dream.

For example, if taxation law is too dull for you, consider family law; if family law is too exhausting, try criminal law; if criminal law is too demanding, explore something else, etc., until you discover expertise you enjoy. Look for a company where you can concentrate on it.

Remember that switching areas of expertise can be tricky once you’ve committed to one. It’s also crucial to consider whether your character matches the type of practice you want to do. Aside from this, you also have to consider the location. Is the firm somewhere where your ir1/cr1 visa is valid?

#5 What is the firm’s culture like?

To accurately assess a law firm’s culture, you’ll have to ask a series of questions: How fierce is the firm? What kind of people do you think work there? What may graduates anticipate from their jobs? What kind of individuals are they? How many hours will I work per week?

The value systems of law firms, or even competing teams within firms, differ significantly. Conspicuous, some may value billable hours and individualism, whereas customer and employee satisfaction, work/life harmony, and civic engagement may be valued by others. If feasible, seek employment with a company whose values align with yours.

Summary

While there may seem many aspects to consider when choosing a firm, just know that these points can very much help you reach your conclusion. Of course, there are many things you should also consider outside of this list, as you can’t write down everything. But the important thing is that you understand the main points you should look out for so you can eventually add your criteria and personalize your options. Saying all this, we hope this article has helped reach the right choice for you.