Sunday, September 14, 2008

On my Own?!

So as I struggle through this painful process, my well-meaning uncle suggested something to me: "Why not go out on your own?" "Sure, uncle, but the problem is, that I don't know this area of law well enough!" "Can't you learn from reading materials and attending bar association seminars?" "Yess...but...."

Hmm...well, the thought is planted. In truth, there is much about immigration law that can be learned. And I know how to litigate bond cases. I have done a few of those already with no training. If I can litigate with no training, then can't I at least take simpler cases on my own? Self-teach for 6 months and then go out and make money? No more dealing with stingy, rude employers!

So, really there are a few issues I really need to think deeply about before I make this huge decision.

1) Am I willing to make this kind of investment right now with little to no savings?
2) Can I learn the law sufficiently well to go off on my own with no one to fall back on?
3) Will I be able to handle the rough times that may come along with a solo practice?

Until I answer these questions in the affirmative, I cannot proceed to ask the more detailed questions that will invariably surface.

However, here is what I will do to prepare for this decision if it should need to be made. I will go out and learn on my own in addition to job search. I will make myself as competent as I possibly can and make contacts along the way.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I think you should seriously consider this. The way the job market is right now this might work out better for you in the long run! Good luck :)

Anonymous said...

Hi,

I found your blog while searching for solace because I am certain that I failed this past July's Illinois bar exam (actually looking for info on whether going on the designated day to review your exam is helpful). Anyway, I appreciate your candor and am very happy to see that you passed!

I have thought about working part-time outside of law for a while while getting involved in pro-bono in the area of my choice (i.e. for tax, there is the VITA program sponsored by the IRS). Perhaps you could find a non-legal job that keeps you in touch with the immigrant community while doing pro-bono immigration work on the side. It sounds like you have the skills and knowledge you need to handle a case on your own and a non-profit that handles immigration issues may be able to provide you with the research and administrative tools. After handling a few more cases of different types, you might be ready to go it on your own or through such an organization you might connect with a more established lawyer in the field who wants an associate.

Good luck and thanks for providing inspiration to the rest of us!