The lawyers we’ve featured over the last six months are an accomplished bunch, offering fascinating tales from the trenches and sage advice to both new and seasoned lawyers who are considering going the solo or small firm route. While each Xemplar’s path to success was markedly different, it is the similarities in their choices that are the most striking. And it is from these commonalities that much can be learned: forge your own innovative path, choose a practice niche that you’re passionate about and, regardless of what others may tell you, take calculated risks. 

Innovate

First and foremost, innovate. Color outside the lines and don’t be boxed in. Don’t do something just because everyone else is doing it; in fact, do just the opposite if it feels right for your practice. Figure out what works for your firm, for your situation, for your needs. Whether it’s starting a virtual law practice, practicing from a home office or pursuing different billing models, don’t be afraid to do something different.

Choose a niche

While it might feel counterintuitive when you’re just starting out, in many cases, narrowing your focus just makes sense. It allows you to cultivate an area of expertise and stand out from the crowd. This is a strategy that has worked well for past Xemplars, many of whom have practice niches in a number of interesting areas, including human rights litigation, federal appellate practice, foodborne illness litigation, exonerating the wrongfully convicted and class action discrimination lawsuits. So, consider narrowing your caseload by choosing a practice niche. Focus your efforts and reap the benefits.

Find your passion

You spend a good part of your waking hours practicing law. If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing on a day-to-day basis, then you’re going to be miserable. And, if you’re perpetually unhappy, then you’re probably not doing a very good job for your clients. So, follow in the footsteps of past Xemplars. Focus on an area of law that lights a fire under you. Search for a cause that matters. Find a way to use your law degree to make a difference in the world. Because it just makes sense: if you enjoy what you do and are passionate about your practice, you’ll be a happier, more fulfilled person and a better lawyer.

Ignore the naysayers

Our profession is precedent-based, and many lawyers are averse to change. For them, the status quo is comfortable and familiar. Lawyers who break the mold and try something different threaten their sense of security. If the partners in your current firm are unwilling to support your vision of a niche practice, don’t be afraid to leave and start your own firm, just as many Xemplars have.  So, ignore the naysayers. Do what’s right for your firm.

Take a calculated risk

A common theme that has emerged from my interviews with past Xemplars is that in retrospect, their choices were riskier than they seemed at the time. But, interestingly, not a single person regretted taking the risk. In fact, in the long run, it was their choice to follow the more risky path that made all the difference.

So, don’t be afraid to take risks. But, make sure that you’re taking calculated risks. Carefully consider your options. Balance the benefits against the drawbacks. And then, once you’ve done so, go for it. Follow your dreams, achieve your goals, make a difference. Be the lawyer you’ve always wanted to be.