Solo Contendere: How to Go Directly from Law School into the Practice of Law Without Getting a Job

In an easy-to-read conversational style, law school professor and long-time sole practitioner Marc Garfinkle gives valuable advice and suggestions to new lawyers, particularly those choosing to go solo right out of law school. Garfinkle says, "Lawyers don't need jobs; they need work." He argues that most lawyers learned their trade on the job, anyhow, even at a large firm. Recognizing there are dangers afoot to client and lawyer alike when ill-prepared lawyers plunge headlong into a busness and a profession at the same time, the author stresses the importance of practicing defensively.
Maintain a network of experienced lawyers you can discuss your cases with regularly, he encourages. Have malpractice insurance if you want to sleep at night. Don't take a case that two other lawyers have handled before you. Extend every courtesy to your adversary. Know your stuff and know your depth. Know when and how get out of the case.
Brimming with caveats, tips and sage advice, Solo Contendere has been selected for publication by the Missouri State Bar CLE, as part of its "bridging the gap" programming for new lawyers.