As we usher in a new decade, it is time for young
lawyers to start thinking about their goals for the next
one. They need to make New Year’s resolutions that
will put them on a trajectory for career success. Here are some
ideas from Nairalaw that might be
beneficial in helping to make 2021 a stellar career year.
![image](/2020/10/lawreport.jpg")
Get a mentor
![image](/2020/10/NWLRland.jpg")
It is settled that the legal profession is extremely deep. In
order for the new lawyers to be able to navigate through the
corridors of the legal profession, mentorship from older, more
seasoned practitioners at the Bar is not mandatory but extremely
necessary. The reason is simple: the older lawyers have already
trod the path their junior counterparts are currently walking, so
they can offer invaluable insights that can significantly aid the
juniors’ journeys.
Start Developing Expertise in a Specific
Area
It’s never too soon to start becoming an expert in a certain
area. Specialization has become an increasingly popular trend among
lawyers. As a young lawyer, now is the perfect time to start
becoming an expert about something. New career paths always crop up
on a daily basis and they include: sports; entertainment; Internet
of Things (IoT); Smart Contracts; Data Privacy, Data protection &
Cyber breaches; App development; Privacy Issues; Intellectual
Property (and the current intricate web of areas that are
interconnected into it); Blockchain technology; AI – the list is
endless. And there won’t be a shortage of same.
With increased knowledge and specialization in the
aforementioned areas, companies and firms would automatically seek
out the savvy 21st century lawyer who is well versed in these
esoteric, specialized worlds to deliver solutions-focused legal
advisory services that can protect their businesses from potential
liability.
Social media
As a lawyer if you are not on social media today then don’t let
2021 end without you creating account with Facebook, or WhatsApp,
or Twitter, or LinkedIn or Instagram. If possible, have account
with all of them. You need it for many reasons:
Social media keeps you up to date with happenings in the country
and some changes in law. It is the commonest platform for reviewing
actions of government along one’s lines of specialization. Citizens
will be enlightened on the legality or otherwise of actions of
government. They will be enlightened and hold government
accountable.
Social media is also a good platform for personal and
professional branding. It aids lawyers in selling themselves to the
public; creating brand visibility and awareness for themselves and
their law practice. Lawyers that can leverage personal
branding/marketing efforts draw in a massive clientele that can see
them and potentially seek out their legal services.
We agree with the saying that the highest earning lawyers are
not necessarily those that know the Law, but those that can market
themselves to attract the type of clients they want for their law
practice.
So, until the 21st century young lawyers can learn to brand
themselves personally and market their name (which may cost nothing
more than an Internet connection and dedicated efforts), they may
remain at the back burner while those who can leverage personal
branding efforts take the lead in the legal profession and remain
the high-earning stars of the profession.
Legal technology
The legal industry will be nearly unrecognizable in 10 years’
time as a result of technology, so how can you stay relevant
and ahead of the curve? Each lawyer is encouraged to embrace legal
technology, i.e using technology in providing legal services.
Be computer literate. Drafting skills is very important, but
skills beyond basic Microsoft Word is essential. You need to be
collaborating with colleagues through Practice Management Systems,
Office 365 and Google Drive, knowing how to use those tools is
critical for future success. Maximize every opportunity to work
with a colleague to create and edit a document, spreadsheet or
presentation using Google Docs.
You also need machine learning or AI skills. AI is being used in
law firms to review documents for discovery, legal research using
automated searches of case law and legislation, contract and
document analysis, proof reading and correcting documents.
Have email address. It has become the most popular and formal
form of communication between lawyers and clients today. Be a
subscriber of online Law Reports like Lawpavilion, NWLR, etc. They
have made research easier for lawyers.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) skills
It is no doubt that the legal profession has its foundation
deeply rooted in litigation as a major means of resolving disputes.
However, things have changed. Most businesses would rather have
their disputes settled via other means which will not only
save time but will not hinder the progress of their businesses.
Hence, ADR is gaining tremendous momentum and growing as fast as
the frustration with court procedures. In recent times, the
judiciary (though not in all States within the federation) have in
some ways introduced other means of resolving disputes by
establishing institutions such as the Lagos Multi-Door Court House,
Citizens Mediation Centre and organizing programmes such as the
Settlement Week which holds at various times within the legal
year. Some Judges also send matters before them for ADR.
It is important to note that all over the world today, most
clients are seeking other means of resolving their disputes as they
still desire to preserve their business relationships which
litigation may not afford them. In order to create an avenue where
their disputes can be resolved amicably without the long hurdle of
litigation, most business relationships have found a way around it
by imputing arbitration clauses in their contractual agreement from
inception.
In essence, to be relevant in the 21st century, lawyers need to
focus on ways of meeting their clients need by strengthening their
commercial awareness and being ahead of the game. Lawyers are
advised to take steps to acquire ADR skills. Such opportunity is
available with Chattered Institute of Arbitrators; Institute of
Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC) and many others.
Networking
When looking for a lawyer, most consumers seek referrals from
friends or family. In other words, you need to go to more
networking events, both to meet other lawyers and to meet new
clients.
These events don’t have to be boring—legal technology
conferences, social gatherings, and local industry meet-ups can be
valuable (and fun!) to attend. To connect with potential clients,
consider networking events outside of your industry. Give talks at
non-legal-specific events, get involved in your local community,
and remember to mention to new connections that you’re a lawyer
available for hire.
Also, keep in mind that networking isn’t limited to in-person
events. Network online by joining professional groups on LinkedIn,
and starting conversations around legal hashtags on Twitter. Clio
Co-Counsel, Clio’s official Facebook community, is also a great way
to connect with other lawyers online.
Learning doesn’t end with law school.
We know, it’s a challenge. You have been so busy during your
first year or two of practice. Maybe you’re building your book of
business as a solo or small firm lawyer. Maybe you are an associate
in a big law firm and required to bill many hours. Remember, the
best and most impressive law school education cannot fully prepare
you for your life in the practice of law, even if you’ve done
internships, externships or clerkships. Making time to continue to
learn must be a priority, not an afterthought.
The best practitioners continue to learn from colleagues,
through continuing legal education seminars, by observing others
who provide both good and bad examples, and by being self-aware
during your first legal activities. Don’t hesitate to ask
well-respected lawyers, or more experienced colleagues or friends
if you can shadow them for a day, or for a case. It’s a great way
to learn.
As a new wig, you learn not only from your own cases and
research, but also from observing more experienced colleagues
during proceedings. You can also take online courses and leverage
on certifications.
Join professional bodies.
There are many professional bodies within and outside Nigeria.
Lawyers are enjoined to join as membership of such bodies cokes
with benefits. It affords lawyers the opportunity to connect with
their peers. You can share ideas, ask for advice, volunteer to be a
speaker or become a member of a committee. You have the opportunity
to learn about breaking news in a particular field, learn “best
practices” or new ideas, hear about key achievers in your field and
also meet and brainstorm with others who are also looking to share
and learn new information.
Another benefit of enhancing your network is that you may find a
mentor to help you with your professional needs or you may even be
in a position to become a mentor to someone else.
Other benefits include information about seminars and training
or certification classes that may be suitable for you. Most
associations provide an enormous amount of access to resource
information such as: case studies, articles, white papers and books
written by experts in your field or area of interest. Also, major
journal, magazine and newsletter access is provided as a part of
your membership privileges.
Listing your association membership on your resume is impressive
to current or future employers as it shows that you are dedicated
to staying connected in your profession.
Some of the bodies include The Chartered Institute of
Arbitrators (CiArb), International Law Association (ILA) Nigeria
Branch, International Bar Association (IBA), Young International
Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), The Chartered Institute
of Logistics and Transport Nigeria (CILT), Chartered Institute of
Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Young International Arbitration Group
(YIAG), Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of
Nigeria (ICSAN), Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators
(ICMC) and many others
Obtain National Identification Number
National Identification Number is now Mandatory for all lawyers
in Filing Court Processes, agreements and similar documents. This
is provided by the National Identity Number Regulations (Government
Notice No. 123) made pursuant to the National Identity Management
Commission Act, 2007.
For the avoidance of doubt, Regulation 1 (1) relevant to lawyers
transactions provides, inter alia-
1.—(1)“In accordance with provisions of section 27 (1) (1) of
the Act , the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) shall
be mandatory for the following additional transactions”-
(a)……………….
(oo) executing any contract or business agreement ;
(pp) tenancy agreements;
(qq) obtaining and processing of probate documents ;
(rr) all transactions involving the acquisition, use or transfer
of parcel of land or landed properties ;
(ss) any transaction, contract or agreement for a valuable
consideration and for the transfer of any interest, tangible or
intangible;
(u) filing and registration of criminal and civil actions in
courts or other arbitration process;
All lawyers who do not have are hereby enjoined to visit nearest
NIMC office to obtain theirs.
Covid-19 is real
We are in a potentially difficult phase of the COVID-19
resurgence. As at December 31, 2020, more than 87,000 cases of
COVID-19 have been diagnosed in Nigeria. While 1,289 people have
died from the virus, Over 73,000 patients have recovered.
Therefore, lawyers should adhere to recommended precautionary
measures by wearing face masks at all times, observing hygiene and
social distancing of at least six feet between one person and the
other, washing their hands with hand sanitizers or soap etc
Apply for Notary Public (Check if the application is
ongoing)
Notary public is a public officer and officers of the Supreme
Court of Nigeria who is qualified to authenticate documents,
prepare, attest, verify, witness, certify originals and copy legal
documents for use within Nigeria, which also perform same functions
in respect of international documents for use outside Nigeria.
Only lawyers of at least 7 years post call experience are
qualified for appointment as a Notaries Public. They must also
scale through the very rigorous screening process to test their
professional ability and integrity are appointed as Notary Public.
Example, an applicant must be vouched for by at least ten judges of
the High Court of the state where he/she practices to be
successful.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (Check if the application is
ongoing)
The rank of Senior advocate is a privilege award conferred on
candidates who have distinguished themselves in legal practice and
have at least 10 years post call experience.
Candidates must have excelled in advocacy and in exceptional
cases to members of the legal profession who are academics and have
made substantial contributions to the practice of law. Candidates
must have paid consistently as at when due his practicing fees and
membership dues to the local branch in the last 10 years preceding
his application.
Candidates must be of good character and must have no pending
disciplinary case or complaint relating to professional misconduct
against him. Candidates must also be competent with sound knowledge
of the law, demonstrate clear qualities of leadership and loyalty
to the legal profession. Candidates must provide particulars of
contested cases as follows: 8 judgments of the High Court 6
judgments of the Court of Appeal 3 judgments of the Supreme
Court.
As we usher in a new decade, it is time for young
lawyers to start thinking about their goals for the next
one. They need to make New Year’s resolutions that
will put them on a trajectory for career success. Here are some
ideas from Nairalaw that might be
beneficial in helping to make 2021 a stellar career year.
Get a mentor
It is settled that the legal profession is extremely deep. In
order for the new lawyers to be able to navigate through the
corridors of the legal profession, mentorship from older, more
seasoned practitioners at the Bar is not mandatory but extremely
necessary. The reason is simple: the older lawyers have already
trod the path their junior counterparts are currently walking, so
they can offer invaluable insights that can significantly aid the
juniors’ journeys.
Start Developing Expertise in a Specific
Area
It’s never too soon to start becoming an expert in a certain
area. Specialization has become an increasingly popular trend among
lawyers. As a young lawyer, now is the perfect time to start
becoming an expert about something. New career paths always crop up
on a daily basis and they include: sports; entertainment; Internet
of Things (IoT); Smart Contracts; Data Privacy, Data protection &
Cyber breaches; App development; Privacy Issues; Intellectual
Property (and the current intricate web of areas that are
interconnected into it); Blockchain technology; AI – the list is
endless. And there won’t be a shortage of same.
With increased knowledge and specialization in the
aforementioned areas, companies and firms would automatically seek
out the savvy 21st century lawyer who is well versed in these
esoteric, specialized worlds to deliver solutions-focused legal
advisory services that can protect their businesses from potential
liability.
Social media
As a lawyer if you are not on social media today then don’t let
2021 end without you creating account with Facebook, or WhatsApp,
or Twitter, or LinkedIn or Instagram. If possible, have account
with all of them. You need it for many reasons:
Social media keeps you up to date with happenings in the country
and some changes in law. It is the commonest platform for reviewing
actions of government along one’s lines of specialization. Citizens
will be enlightened on the legality or otherwise of actions of
government. They will be enlightened and hold government
accountable.
Social media is also a good platform for personal and
professional branding. It aids lawyers in selling themselves to the
public; creating brand visibility and awareness for themselves and
their law practice. Lawyers that can leverage personal
branding/marketing efforts draw in a massive clientele that can see
them and potentially seek out their legal services.
We agree with the saying that the highest earning lawyers are
not necessarily those that know the Law, but those that can market
themselves to attract the type of clients they want for their law
practice.
So, until the 21st century young lawyers can learn to brand
themselves personally and market their name (which may cost nothing
more than an Internet connection and dedicated efforts), they may
remain at the back burner while those who can leverage personal
branding efforts take the lead in the legal profession and remain
the high-earning stars of the profession.
Legal technology
The legal industry will be nearly unrecognizable in 10 years’
time as a result of technology, so how can you stay relevant
and ahead of the curve? Each lawyer is encouraged to embrace legal
technology, i.e using technology in providing legal services.
Be computer literate. Drafting skills is very important, but
skills beyond basic Microsoft Word is essential. You need to be
collaborating with colleagues through Practice Management Systems,
Office 365 and Google Drive, knowing how to use those tools is
critical for future success. Maximize every opportunity to work
with a colleague to create and edit a document, spreadsheet or
presentation using Google Docs.
You also need machine learning or AI skills. AI is being used in
law firms to review documents for discovery, legal research using
automated searches of case law and legislation, contract and
document analysis, proof reading and correcting documents.
Have email address. It has become the most popular and formal
form of communication between lawyers and clients today. Be a
subscriber of online Law Reports like Lawpavilion, NWLR, etc. They
have made research easier for lawyers.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) skills
It is no doubt that the legal profession has its foundation
deeply rooted in litigation as a major means of resolving disputes.
However, things have changed. Most businesses would rather have
their disputes settled via other means which will not only
save time but will not hinder the progress of their businesses.
Hence, ADR is gaining tremendous momentum and growing as fast as
the frustration with court procedures. In recent times, the
judiciary (though not in all States within the federation) have in
some ways introduced other means of resolving disputes by
establishing institutions such as the Lagos Multi-Door Court House,
Citizens Mediation Centre and organizing programmes such as the
Settlement Week which holds at various times within the legal
year. Some Judges also send matters before them for ADR.
It is important to note that all over the world today, most
clients are seeking other means of resolving their disputes as they
still desire to preserve their business relationships which
litigation may not afford them. In order to create an avenue where
their disputes can be resolved amicably without the long hurdle of
litigation, most business relationships have found a way around it
by imputing arbitration clauses in their contractual agreement from
inception.
In essence, to be relevant in the 21st century, lawyers need to
focus on ways of meeting their clients need by strengthening their
commercial awareness and being ahead of the game. Lawyers are
advised to take steps to acquire ADR skills. Such opportunity is
available with Chattered Institute of Arbitrators; Institute of
Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC) and many others.
Networking
When looking for a lawyer, most consumers seek referrals from
friends or family. In other words, you need to go to more
networking events, both to meet other lawyers and to meet new
clients.
These events don’t have to be boring—legal technology
conferences, social gatherings, and local industry meet-ups can be
valuable (and fun!) to attend. To connect with potential clients,
consider networking events outside of your industry. Give talks at
non-legal-specific events, get involved in your local community,
and remember to mention to new connections that you’re a lawyer
available for hire.
Also, keep in mind that networking isn’t limited to in-person
events. Network online by joining professional groups on LinkedIn,
and starting conversations around legal hashtags on Twitter. Clio
Co-Counsel, Clio’s official Facebook community, is also a great way
to connect with other lawyers online.
Learning doesn’t end with law school.
We know, it’s a challenge. You have been so busy during your
first year or two of practice. Maybe you’re building your book of
business as a solo or small firm lawyer. Maybe you are an associate
in a big law firm and required to bill many hours. Remember, the
best and most impressive law school education cannot fully prepare
you for your life in the practice of law, even if you’ve done
internships, externships or clerkships. Making time to continue to
learn must be a priority, not an afterthought.
The best practitioners continue to learn from colleagues,
through continuing legal education seminars, by observing others
who provide both good and bad examples, and by being self-aware
during your first legal activities. Don’t hesitate to ask
well-respected lawyers, or more experienced colleagues or friends
if you can shadow them for a day, or for a case. It’s a great way
to learn.
As a new wig, you learn not only from your own cases and
research, but also from observing more experienced colleagues
during proceedings. You can also take online courses and leverage
on certifications.
Join professional bodies.
There are many professional bodies within and outside Nigeria.
Lawyers are enjoined to join as membership of such bodies cokes
with benefits. It affords lawyers the opportunity to connect with
their peers. You can share ideas, ask for advice, volunteer to be a
speaker or become a member of a committee. You have the opportunity
to learn about breaking news in a particular field, learn “best
practices” or new ideas, hear about key achievers in your field and
also meet and brainstorm with others who are also looking to share
and learn new information.
Another benefit of enhancing your network is that you may find a
mentor to help you with your professional needs or you may even be
in a position to become a mentor to someone else.
Other benefits include information about seminars and training
or certification classes that may be suitable for you. Most
associations provide an enormous amount of access to resource
information such as: case studies, articles, white papers and books
written by experts in your field or area of interest. Also, major
journal, magazine and newsletter access is provided as a part of
your membership privileges.
Listing your association membership on your resume is impressive
to current or future employers as it shows that you are dedicated
to staying connected in your profession.
Some of the bodies include The Chartered Institute of
Arbitrators (CiArb), International Law Association (ILA) Nigeria
Branch, International Bar Association (IBA), Young International
Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), The Chartered Institute
of Logistics and Transport Nigeria (CILT), Chartered Institute of
Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Young International Arbitration Group
(YIAG), Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of
Nigeria (ICSAN), Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators
(ICMC) and many others
Obtain National Identification Number
National Identification Number is now Mandatory for all lawyers
in Filing Court Processes, agreements and similar documents. This
is provided by the National Identity Number Regulations (Government
Notice No. 123) made pursuant to the National Identity Management
Commission Act, 2007.
For the avoidance of doubt, Regulation 1 (1) relevant to lawyers
transactions provides, inter alia-
1.—(1)“In accordance with provisions of section 27 (1) (1) of
the Act , the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) shall
be mandatory for the following additional transactions”-
(a)……………….
(oo) executing any contract or business agreement ;
(pp) tenancy agreements;
(qq) obtaining and processing of probate documents ;
(rr) all transactions involving the acquisition, use or transfer
of parcel of land or landed properties ;
(ss) any transaction, contract or agreement for a valuable
consideration and for the transfer of any interest, tangible or
intangible;
(u) filing and registration of criminal and civil actions in
courts or other arbitration process;
All lawyers who do not have are hereby enjoined to visit nearest
NIMC office to obtain theirs.
Covid-19 is real
We are in a potentially difficult phase of the COVID-19
resurgence. As at December 31, 2020, more than 87,000 cases of
COVID-19 have been diagnosed in Nigeria. While 1,289 people have
died from the virus, Over 73,000 patients have recovered.
Therefore, lawyers should adhere to recommended precautionary
measures by wearing face masks at all times, observing hygiene and
social distancing of at least six feet between one person and the
other, washing their hands with hand sanitizers or soap etc
Apply for Notary Public (Check if the application is
ongoing)
Notary public is a public officer and officers of the Supreme
Court of Nigeria who is qualified to authenticate documents,
prepare, attest, verify, witness, certify originals and copy legal
documents for use within Nigeria, which also perform same functions
in respect of international documents for use outside Nigeria.
Only lawyers of at least 7 years post call experience are
qualified for appointment as a Notaries Public. They must also
scale through the very rigorous screening process to test their
professional ability and integrity are appointed as Notary Public.
Example, an applicant must be vouched for by at least ten judges of
the High Court of the state where he/she practices to be
successful.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (Check if the application is
ongoing)
The rank of Senior advocate is a privilege award conferred on
candidates who have distinguished themselves in legal practice and
have at least 10 years post call experience.
Candidates must have excelled in advocacy and in exceptional
cases to members of the legal profession who are academics and have
made substantial contributions to the practice of law. Candidates
must have paid consistently as at when due his practicing fees and
membership dues to the local branch in the last 10 years preceding
his application.
Candidates must be of good character and must have no pending
disciplinary case or complaint relating to professional misconduct
against him. Candidates must also be competent with sound knowledge
of the law, demonstrate clear qualities of leadership and loyalty
to the legal profession. Candidates must provide particulars of
contested cases as follows: 8 judgments of the High Court 6
judgments of the Court of Appeal 3 judgments of the Supreme
Court.