Have you completed law school and still applying for jobs? Or are you looking for a law firm to complete your training? If yes, then you need to be mindful about a few things. After all, your first job or training firm will play major role in deciding the future of your legal career.
Many students tend to be directionless when it comes to choosing law firms to apply to. You might research endlessly but still not know what to look for in a prospective law firm. Based on common queries of law students, here is a list of things you should consider before applying to law firms in Alberta.
Reputation of the Law Firm
When it comes to your first job, the prestige and reputation of the law firm you choose is of prime importance. Large, established law firms in Alberta tend to have rapid growth opportunities. And you get to have a holistic legal experience that will add to the value of your resume. But that doesn’t mean that smaller firms are a bad choice. In a small law firm, you get to learn a lot and work more closely with the partners. Whatever be the size of the firm you pick, it is always a good idea to pick an organization that has been in the industry for a while and has a good reputation in the market.
Practice Area and Client Base of the Law Firm
As a law student, you may have already made up your mind on the area of practice you want to specialise in or have a few choices in mind. See to it that the law firm you choose has enough opportunities for you to grow in the practice area of your choice. For example, if you want to specialize in the field of intellectual property law, it would be pointless to opt for a firm that focuses majorly on family law cases.
The next thing to consider is the client base of the law firm. The clients you will be working for will be dependent on the client profile of the company.
Culture of the Law Firm
The work culture of the organization you work for will largely determine your experience at the law firm. It is therefore, important to do some research on the approach and methodology of working, company policies and team structure. You need to figure out if you would fit into the organization’s work culture. The working culture of smaller regional organizations differ greatly compared to the global law firms in the city.
Your Geographical Preferences
Are you willing to live in a major financial centre for the rest of your life? Or do you wish to settle in a smaller town for a relaxed life? Your geographical preferences should be in alignment with your choice of law firm. If you wish to travel abroad and gain exposure to foreign jurisdictions, then you should apply to cross jurisdictional law firms in Alberta.
If you are looking for a reputed law firm in Alberta, then get in touch with us. We are looking for dynamic and determined individuals with an interest in business-related or administrative law.