'And Bad Mistakes? I've Made a Few': Sharing Mistakes to Mentor New Lawyers

50 Pages Posted: 8 Oct 2013

See all articles by Julie A. Oseid

Julie A. Oseid

University of St. Thomas School of Law (Minnesota)

Stephen D. Easton

University of Wyoming - College of Law

Date Written: 2013

Abstract

A new lawyer’s long-term success can be determined by the lawyer’s ability to acknowledge, accept, and learn from mistakes and disappointments. This article helps new lawyers understand that mistakes can be career-boosters, not career-killers. The authors note that mistakes are an inevitable part of any human endeavor, particularly one as complicated, and therefore as thrilling, as the practice of law. New lawyers are often resistant to talking about or recognizing mistakes. The authors urge new lawyers not to be afraid of making mistakes, but to instead embrace mistakes as one part of the journey to becoming a professional. The second section of the article includes examples of the authors’ own mistakes. Hearing about mistakes helps new lawyers learn both the technical knowledge and the ethical conduct required to be a successful lawyer. Sharing these stories of mistakes is a crucial way to help mentor the next generation of lawyers.

Keywords: legal profession, professionalism, mentoring, professional responsibility, legal education

Suggested Citation

Oseid, Julie A. and Easton, Stephen D., 'And Bad Mistakes? I've Made a Few': Sharing Mistakes to Mentor New Lawyers (2013). Albany Law Review, 2014, Forthcoming, U of St. Thomas (Minnesota) Legal Studies Research Paper No. 13-30, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2337241

Julie A. Oseid (Contact Author)

University of St. Thomas School of Law (Minnesota) ( email )

MSL 400, 1000 La Salle Avenue
Minneapolis, MN Minnesota 55403-2005
United States

Stephen D. Easton

University of Wyoming - College of Law

P.O. Box 3035
Laramie, WY 82071
United States

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