Top Qualities to Look for in a Law Firm Employer

The legal job landscape is rife with competition as firms struggle to secure top talent in the industry. Lawyers are in a good position to pick and choose, but a lack of awareness drives them towards wrong decisions. Most of them consider money as the top factor while comparing and choosing options as potential employees. But they need to look for much more while finding an ideal employer. If you are looking for one, here are the qualities you must prioritize in an employer.

Versatility in practice areas

A law firm that covers diverse practice areas makes a good pick for evident reasons. Since you get the opportunity to broaden your horizons while working with them, you shouldn’t miss out on the chance. Many lawyers specialize in one zone, only to realize later that it does not match their aptitude or suit their passion. Working with a multi-practice firm gives you an option to switch and specialize in other areas down the line.

Career development opportunities

The legal domain is dynamic as laws change down the line. As a lawyer, you need to evolve to be relevant in the industry. A firm that offers professional development opportunities to its employees is an ideal employer. Ask them if they run ongoing training and support programs for their lawyers. You can even check their website and social profiles to get an idea. Employee reviews make another good way to get an insider’s view.

Workplace culture

Like any other business, a law firm with a positive work culture is the right place to work in. Look for factors like work-life balance, strong values, mentorship programs, and more. Diversity and Inclusion should be on top of your checklist because it is one of the weak areas in the industry. Surprisingly, according to a recent survey, minority groups are only 7.6% of partners in the US. You must double-check to ensure that the firm offers equal opportunity regardless of color, gender, and race.

Access to technology and tools

Modern workplaces rely heavily on technology, and the legal domain is not an exception. The remote working model amid the pandemic has made it an essential part of day-to-day operations. As a professional, you must ensure that the employer firm offers access to the latest technology and tools. Having them at hand enables you to be your productive best and keeps you relevant in the current landscape.

Client interactions

Another factor you must look for is the opportunity to interact with clients. Direct interactions with clients ramp up your communication skills, which are essential to growth in the industry. They also enable you to understand the cases better, enhancing your chances of getting favorable outcomes. Ensure you have enough chances to do it right from the early stages.

Choosing the right law firm as your employer is the most important career decision. Think beyond money while assessing your options, and take a broader view. The right choice gives opportunities to learn and grow, so invest all the effort in finding an ideal employer.