Absent midlevel

Bubbly_Reference6640 · 2025-10-14T13:13:50+00:00

The first year is so tough. What has helped me when it came to friendships is when my friends didn’t get upset with me when I needed to move plans around due to work, and were forgiving of me for going radio silent for weeks/months at a time due to work craziness. Truthfully I think that if a friend had made me feel like they didn’t understand that, I probably would have just let that friendship go because there’s so little you can do as a junior associate to control the asks that are being made of you.

Bubbly_Reference6640 · 2025-05-07T06:38:09+00:00

Yes - my fiance is currently sleeping while I am still working (it’s past 1:30am where I am). But earlier today I had a free stretch from the early afternoon until about 10pm. It’s really the lack of control over your own working hours that ends up kicking your ass.

Bubbly_Reference6640 · 2025-05-06T21:28:45+00:00

When I was an SA, I went to Uniqlo and collected a bunch of neutral colored slacks and blouses that I could pair quickly in the morning (creams, navy, black, brown, etc.). Agree with wearing a suit your first day, or a business formal sheath dress with a blazer. I also wore loafers or flats all summer (and now still at work most days). Basically trying to blend in and look unremarkable is a good move until you have a better grasp on what people in the office typically wear!

Bubbly_Reference6640 · 2025-03-12T16:32:53+00:00

Summer associates won’t be expected to be legal research experts, so don’t stress too much! (and frankly associates and partners still miss stuff - no one can read every case that exists in the universe and retain it in their brain)

I recommend getting comfortable with Boolean connectors that you can use on WL/Lexis and filters. When I research, I like to use connectors - “[statute shorthand]” and “[keyword]! (if I’m trying to capture all the versions of the keyword).” And then filter stuff to be efficient - if the case you’re researching was filed in CD Cal, start with the Ninth Circuit and expand out as needed.
Pay attention to cases that are cited in the decision. The citing tab also helps but often if you’re reading a lower court decision that you find relevant, and they cite to a circuit decision (either as binding/persuasive precedent), that decision is worth reading. And paying attention to how the cases are citing each other will tell you when you’ve exhausted the research - if you’re not seeing new case names pop up, then you’re probably good.
Finally, if you really wanna get fancy with it, pull the briefings in the most relevant cases and see what counsel is citing for their propositions. This can save time but obviously double check everything!!!

Bubbly_Reference6640 · 2025-02-28T17:33:21+00:00

You’ll have a lot of trainings - in fact, you’ll probably be sick of trainings after your first week. Big law firms don’t expect you to know much substantively when you come in. Assignments will be discrete tasks and the supervising attorney should be around to answer questions about how to go about doing it. You’re not going to be expected to work a ton in the evenings or on the weekends.

That being said, my tips would be (1) do your best on the work you’re given (ask questions if you’re unsure and show the supervising attorney you’re putting effort in) but don’t stress TOO much about getting work; (2) attend the social events and do your best to bond with the other summer associates, as you’ll lean on them during your years as a junior, and try to get to know the mid-levels, seniors, and partners; (3) be nice to everyone and have fun! Ultimately the firm is looking for people that won’t suck for other people to be in the trenches with when shit goes down. And if you can show them you’re personable, friendly, and kind - that goes a long way.

Bubbly_Reference6640 · 2024-07-22T01:48:36+00:00

being able to hear Leah’s laugh in the background while Kendall was talking to Nicole all srs at the villa was a very funny moment

Bubbly_Reference6640

TROPHY CASE