Over at Law.com, they’ve posted an article from The Connecticut Law Tribune about solo and small firm attorneys that are extending their practice into unfamiliar areas to keep their income going.
You might find them in line at the court clerk’s office, asking questions that you would expect from a rookie attorney. Or maybe wandering courthouse hallways not entirely sure where to go.
Sure, those people may be interns or recent law school grads. But they also might be experienced, but cash-strapped real estate attorneys who have decided to dip their toes into criminal or family law.
Are all these quasi-newbies representing their clients as well as their colleagues more seasoned in these areas of law?
“They’re just doing a job in an area they wouldn’t normally practice,” said [Bridgeport judge Frank Ianotti]. “Usually a good lawyer is a good lawyer.”
That might be a comforting idea, but dipping your toes in a strange new realm of practice is still terrifying. I suppose the trick is just being “a good lawyer”: be civil with judges, attorneys, and everyone else you deal with; advise caution for your clients; ask for advise when you need it; research like crazy—read all the codes, rules, regulations, and standing orders you can find.