Day in the Life of an Associate Attorney: Memphis, TN
Day in the Life of an Associate Attorney
By Mark Bailey
Associate Attorney:
2003-present
Life in the Memphis office is truly the best of both worlds: the resources and technology of a large firm with the intimacy and personal relationships of a smaller location. The attorneys in the Memphis office pride themselves with their solid working relationships and team approach to practice. Associates enjoy accelerated involvement in cases, which provides Associates with early experience in case management, case strategy, and client interaction.
The culture of the Memphis office is outstanding. Unlike other larger firms, no barriers to communication exist between Associates and Partners. With a true "open door" policy, Associates have the experience of Partners and other Associates at their disposal. This creates a relaxing environment with greater efficiency and productivity.
I live downtown, so I enjoy easy access to the office. Generally, most attorneys in the Memphis office arrive between 8 and 8:30 a.m. Once I'm settled in, I generally map out my projects for the day and then get started. Like most attorneys, though, the map is rarely a reliable measure of all the day's events, since I usually find myself taking a number of detours. But, it's that element of unpredictability that makes each day that much more challenging.
A typical day's worth of activities includes drafting (pleadings or other documents), client interaction (conference calls and email), strategy (analyzing issues and developing solutions), research, and communications with other counsel. Much of my work is in jurisdictions other than Memphis, so court appearances are rare. However, the Memphis office lies in the heart of the judicial district, so, when the need to appear in court does arise, I'm always within walking distance.
The doors are usually open throughout the halls, so a few stops a day is not uncommon to chat with fellow Associates or discuss pending matters. The Memphis office generally has practice group meetings once a week, which is a great opportunity to brainstorm issues and get opinions on current cases. Again, the Memphis group is a tight bunch, so communication of ideas and opinions flows easily among us. Plus, we frequently go to lunch together, which is a great opportunity for us to catch-up on a personal level and recharge for the afternoon.
The length of my work day is driven by the work. As such, although there are days that the hours are longer, it is generally because I'm working on an interesting project or am challenged by approaching deadlines. It is these challenges, however, that make our profession exciting. Having been with the Memphis office since becoming a part of the Firm, I can confidently say being an Associate is a fulfilling and rewarding experience.