MB is the type of firm that invests a lot in its junior members... |
Many of my colleagues have already blogged about the responsibility articling students receive (i.e. carriage of our own files), and the incredible work we get to do on a daily basis (injunctions, anyone?). To build on that, I thought I would share the various other ways to hone your skills.
Practice Group Seminars
If I were to ask a law student how many Supreme Court of Canada cases they read in a month, it would be shocked if that number isn't 10x higher than the average lawyer. This is because, on a day-to-day basis, the fundamentals of practice do not change all that much. However, keeping up with the law is vital to ensuring the best result for your clients.
The firm frequently hosts meetings and seminars within each of its practice groups (i.e. transportation law, accident benefits, subrogation, privacy). The purpose of these seminars is to bring us up to date with both new developments in the law, as well as fundamental principles.
Publishing
MB gives you no shortage of opportunities to publish (see my most recent and another published with Toronto Law Journal). At any given time throughout articling, I have had anywhere from 2 to 6 papers on the go (I don't recommend 6, by the way!), an email blast, and a presentation.
Publishing has the double benefit of learning an area of the law in-depth, as well as making a name for yourself in the legal community. This brings me to my next point.
I've already mentioned the benefits of networking in a previous post. However, I didn't highlight just how many firm events MB students are entitled to attend. Just last month, our well-attended “Christmas in January” party was an excellent opportunity to meet clients and put a face to the names we deal with every day.
It is never too early to focus on your professional development so hopefully, you find a firm where your efforts are facilitated and rewarded.
Anthony G.