It's been 1 YEAR since I was sworn in as an attorney! ⚖️🤍 Here's some of my thoughts: 1 thing I was really surprised about is how much responsibility I get as a 1st year associate! Of course this varies by the job/office but I get to work directly with clients on projects by myself and go to planning commission and city council meetings for the cities we represent and be the city attorney up on the dais answering legal questions during the meetings 😇Also sometimes, I attend court on behalf of a city (very infrequently since I am not a litigator) (also thank god because I hate going to court lol) Another thing I have been surprised about is how flexible my schedule has been. Of course since I am at a private firm I have a billable hour requirement to meet annually, and certain meetings/office hours I have to attend but other than what is on my calendar I have been pretty free to make my schedule and also encouraged to take time off :) Of course this varies by the job/office too. It has been so so helpful because I can actually have a life outside of work and make an active effort to schedule PTO that is solely for rest/relaxation.! next, mental health. So important! I don’t consider my job to be the most stressful or anxiety inducing but it can still be stressful! It is super important to take care of yourself and establish good habits early on (as early as in / before law school ) in order to set yourself up for success in the long run as an attorney :) Your future you will thank you! So far, I use exercise and little mindfulness exercises to de-stress as well as actively making an effort to take PTO to recharge :) Last thing: your staff, such as assistants and paralegals, are your best friends! They are SO knowledgeable and especially as a baby attorney starting out they are who can turn to with all your dumb questions or to just learn about everything. My assistant has been so helpful in steering me in the right direction whenever I need help. It is easy to feel burdensome asking them for help but that is what they are there for! Overall I'm so happy with my first year & so excited to continue to learn & grow! #lawfirmlife #lawyer #attorneylife