Keep It Simple, Smarty: Tips for Transactional Training Programs

Abstract

Law firms are beefing up their training programs for new lawyers because many clients refuse to pay for first and second year associates to shadow senior attorneys. This article flashes a semaphore across the bridge from law school to practice to help close the gap between what firms wish new associates could do and what they actually can do, warning firms to avoid three dangers and offering ways to avoid them. The traps are complex hypotheticals, immersing new associates in an intensive bootcamp style training, and defaulting to on-line materials. My experience introducing law students to basic transactional terms, concepts, and skills like negotiating then drafting contract terms shows that firms’ programs should be more efficient and effective if they keep simulations simple, space sessions over time, and blend on-line with in-person training.

Note: Due to Thompson/Reuters’ restrictive distribution policies, the only way to access the article electronically is on WestNext, by entering 48 NO 1 UCCLJ ART 1.