I did two interviews at a law firm. One of the position was doing secretary/ receptionist.. As I get experiences, I would get my own clients. This frim is mid size with about 10 employees. I did other interview today. This law firm had only one attorney where I would have to work as executive assistant. As a beginner, is it better to work with more co workers or is it okay to work for one lawyer? What is better? Which one would you prefer? Also doing tax, is it better to be paid as independent contractor where I have to do my own taxes or it it better for me to be in the payroll where they do my taxes? which one would be better? any suggestion?
Answer by JC
You'll probably gain more, diverse experience with a sole practitioner than with a bigger firm. With a one-man shop, you'll learn a lot more about your specific area of law (i.e., calendaring, filing procedures, possibly some areas sometimes covered by paralegals, etc.) whereas with a bigger firm, you might become pigeon holed into one role (i.e., typing and phones only because they have employees to cover the other areas).
Personally, if I was starting out, I'd opt for the one man firm only because I'd get a good idea of that area of law fast. However, I'd make sure that the attorney is patient and that you have a good rapport with him/her. (No sense in working for someone you hate or vice versa.)
As for the social aspect, that would depend on you. If you're the social type, then the bigger firm might be better. Whereas, if you're kind of a loner (or don't mind being by yourself for a lengthy period), then the sole practitioner job might be fine. (Then again, once you get the experience under your belt from a small firm, you can always jump ship to a larger one.)
As for taxes, again, that would depend on you. If you're organized and knowledgeable about tax laws, then being an independent contractor might be fine. If not, then the payroll might be a better option. (I'd lean more towards being on the payroll because that might include benefits like health insurance, paid sick and vacation days, 401(k) etc. Whereas, as a contractor, you simply wouldn't be paid if you missed days off of work regardless of reason.)
Answer by Francesca Thomas
I say get the experience with the sole practitioner first, so you'll have some knowledge of several legal areas.
Then when you move on, you will much more 'employable' because you are not restricted to just one area.
Answer by kapn
No offense but you must improve your writing skills. This is a serious requirement in any law office...............small office first.
Answer by V.T.V.RAM
It is better to work in a large firm in the beginning as you will exposed to a bigger canvas and such experience is also recognized in the profession !!
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Orignal From: Is it better to work at a small law firm assisting one lawyer or is it better to work at a larger firm??
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