Guidance for New Lawyers: Insights, Lessons, and Pitfalls to Avoid

By Michael Meehan

With nearly 30 years of experience in the legal profession, I continue to refine my practice each day. The term “practicing law” is fitting because, in many ways, it’s a continuous learning process—one that never truly reaches perfection.

There are approximately 1.3 million attorneys currently practicing in the United States, each shaping their own unique career path. Some law graduates never obtain their license, while others carve out remarkable careers in different legal disciplines. The beauty of the legal profession is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach; your career can be as unique as you make it.

Recently, my nephew achieved the significant milestone of passing the California State Bar and taking his oath as an attorney. Witnessing his accomplishment reminded me of my early days in the profession. Reflecting on my journey, I have compiled some key lessons and insights for those embarking on their legal careers—and for seasoned attorneys who are always looking to refine their practice.

Choosing the Right Legal Path

The best career advice I can offer is to practice law in an area that genuinely interests you. If you entered the profession with the sole goal of financial success, you may be disappointed. While some lawyers achieve tremendous financial success, it requires persistence, time, and dedication.

Certain practice areas tend to be more lucrative than others, but passion should be your guiding principle. If criminal defense excites you, understand that it may not be the most financially rewarding path. However, fulfillment in your work can outweigh monetary considerations. If you’re unsure which field suits you best, explore different areas before settling on one.

Defining True Wealth

Success isn’t solely defined by income, cars, or material possessions. True wealth often lies in relationships, family, and personal well-being. The relentless pursuit of money can come at the cost of meaningful experiences. Many accomplished attorneys learn to balance their professional and personal lives. Strive for a fulfilling career, but not at the expense of family and personal happiness.

Essential Lessons for New Attorneys

1. Your Reputation is Everything – Integrity is non-negotiable. Never mislead the court or opposing counsel. Avoid making baseless legal arguments. Your credibility will follow you throughout your career.
2. The Legal Community is Small – Missteps have a way of catching up with you. A questionable action in one case can affect your future. Judges, opposing counsel, and hiring committees often remember past behavior.
3. Treat Everyone with Respect – This applies to judges, clerks, office staff, and even janitorial personnel. A positive reputation extends beyond legal skills; it’s also about how you treat others.
4. Manage Your Finances Wisely – Stay out of unnecessary debt, and handle client trust accounts meticulously. Never borrow from client funds, as bar associations have little tolerance for financial mismanagement.
5. Value Your Time – Friends and acquaintances may seek free legal advice. While it’s tempting to help, remember that your expertise has value, just as you wouldn’t expect free services from other professionals.
6. Trust Your Instincts – If a prospective client raises red flags or has unrealistic expectations, it’s okay to decline representation. A bad client can be more costly than any retainer fee.
7. Always Get a Signed Retainer Agreement – A written contract protects both you and the client and helps prevent fee disputes.
8. Find a Mentor – Having an experienced attorney as a mentor can provide invaluable guidance. Join your local bar association and build a professional network.
9. Ask for Help When Needed – If a case is beyond your expertise, seek guidance or collaborate with a more experienced attorney.
10. Own Your Work – If your name is on a document, read it carefully before submission. Don’t rely solely on assistants, clerks, or AI tools.
11. Grow Your Firm Strategically – If you run your own practice, be mindful of hiring decisions and marketing expenses. Growth should be sustainable, not reckless.
12. Commit to Continuous Learning – Attend seminars and stay updated on legal developments. In-person events also offer networking opportunities.
13. Build Client Relationships – Communicate effectively, return calls promptly, and keep clients informed. Strong client relationships can lead to future referrals and business growth.
14. Take Time Off – Overworking leads to burnout. Take vacations, recharge, and maintain a life outside of law.
15. Avoid Substance Abuse – Many attorneys face professional consequences due to addiction issues. If you need help, seek it before it affects your career.
16. Stick to Your Practice Area – Trying to practice in an unfamiliar area can lead to mistakes and potential malpractice issues. Refer cases outside your expertise to qualified colleagues.
17. Keep Your Word – If you commit to a deadline or court date, meet it. Reliability builds trust.
18. Maintain Professionalism with Opposing Counsel – Legal disputes can be adversarial, but personal attacks are unnecessary. Keep arguments focused on the legal issues at hand.
19. Accept That You Won’t Win Every Case – Even with the best preparation, some cases don’t go in your favor. Learn from losses and use them to improve your practice.
20. Pave Your Own Path – If you aspire to a particular legal career—whether as a judge, professor, or senior partner—seek mentors and professionals who have already succeeded in that field.

Final Thoughts

No career in law is without its challenges, but with integrity, diligence, and balance, you can create a fulfilling and successful practice. Hopefully, these lessons help new and experienced attorneys alike avoid some of the pitfalls I’ve encountered along the way. Ultimately, the law is a profession of service—use your skills to make a difference while building a career you can be proud of.

Michael T. Meehan

Michael T. Meehan, founder of The Meehan Law Firm, brings over 25 years of exceptional criminal defense experience. A former sheriff and prosecutor, he is renowned for his tenacious pursuit of justice in even the most complex cases. Michael’s unwavering dedication to his clients has earned him a reputation as a trusted and skilled advocate. Outside the courtroom, he is a devoted father to quadruplets, balancing family life with his passion for delivering justice and protecting his clients’ rights.