Y L D P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E
S e a n P . B e v i l – S h u m a k e r , L o o p & K e n d r i c k , L L P
youngLawyerBucketList
itrulybelievethatjoiningalocalbarassociationlikethe hcBAyLdisoneofthemostimportantstepstofurthering ayounglawyer ’ scareer .
Being a young lawyer often involves a long list of newfound experiences . It also carries with it the task of building a solid foundation for a long and successful legal career . Upon graduating law school , young lawyers enter a much larger pond where it helps to establish certain milestones or “ bucket list ” items early on in their career . The formula for becoming a successful lawyer is no bright-line rule , but I believe the following bucket list items will prove invaluable to a young lawyer ’ s future :
Join A Voluntary Bar Association
One of my favorite aspects of leading the HCBA YLD this year is recruiting new members and welcoming them to the Young Lawyers Division . The HCBA YLD consistently serves as a central hub for networking and making connections among young lawyers in Hillsborough County . It also provides opportunities for leadership , recognition , legal education , and community involvement . I truly believe that joining a local bar association like the HCBA YLD is one of the most important steps to furthering a young lawyer ’ s career .
Find A Mentor
Having a mentor is important , not only for learning new aspects of the law , but also for building new connections . A good mentor not only lends guidance , but also vouches for you and can help you build a solid reputation . Establishing a mentor relationship can sometimes be as easy as merely asking for advice from somebody on one occasion . If the advice is good , then go back to that person for more advice . Connect on something you both are passionate about , and find occasions to share with that person something about yourself . Importantly , stay in contact and keep them updated as to your career ’ s progress .
Establish A Bragging Point
Everyone will have a different bragging point . Perhaps you drafted a winning brief , or you worked above and beyond to provide pro bono services to the community . Maybe you won a notable hearing involving a novel issue of law , or you worked to become board certified in a particular subject matter .
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