Watch Out For The Well

Had another appearance yesterday in the busiest courtroom I've experienced so far.  I was about to cross the judge's well before the courtroom clerk politely reminded me not to be there. I got to keep looking out for this sacred space. The Deputy District Attorney was kind of a jerk. I approached him at his table because I wanted to talk about the case, just basic things like setting up the next calendar date and any possible settlement offers. He abruptly left and talked with other attorneys, most likely other DA's or city attorneys, even though I was standing right beside him. I first thought he didn't hear me because the courtroom was a little loud although not deafening.  I walked towards him and before I can finish asking if we can talk, he interrupts me and says, "Just wait over there [pointing to his table.]" I overheard their conversation and it was the usual friendly banter but had nothing to do with work. I took a step back and told him, "I'll just wait right here."  We went to his table and briefly discussed the usual before my case was called. Although it wasn't the smoothest meeting, I'm glad I met someone like him. It could have been the nature of the hectic courtroom or he could have always been  abrasive, but I'm glad I went through it.

Meeting Clients

I had another appearance today but the wait was the longest I've ever had. I met the client and his family who were very nice people. It was their first time in court so I made sure to explain what would take place. I felt bad for them not only for their legal situation but because they waited nearly two hours for the case to be called. Original time was set at 8:30 but client wasn't called until a little past 10:00! After the appearance, I answered more of the client and his family's questions. They thanked me for their help and I thanked them for their patience. I never expect such things to start on time but I didn't expect it to be this late. I didn't have breakfast before court because I thought I'd be done by 9:30. I was still able to get that deluxe platter at McDonald's though.

A little more work

I made my third appearance last week. It was more of the same but the wait was a little longer. I noticed there were quite a few semi-fresh attorneys like me doing similar work. We all talked about how this kind of job is the only employment we can find. We exchanged business cards but most likely I won't even look at them except just to find out what law school they attended in the state bar website.

Speaking of state bar matters, exam results came out  last Friday. I can't believe it's been a year since I let out that big exhale. For many, I know it was a night of jubilation and for many others, I wish nothing but the best. I won't lie and the statistics tell it all too. Most people who don't pass the first time don't pass it after multiple attempts. However, it has been done. Ten of my friends didn't pass the first time around but four of them eventually got it on the second or third attempt. It's improbable but not impossible. The opportunity to succeed is there.

Second Time Around

Made my second appearance yesterday and it went much smoother than last time. No surprises or snarky judges thrown at me. I did ask an attorney what's the usual protocol for this courthouse and she happily helped me. She also informed me I was standing in the well as I was looking through the client's file. It's something new to learn and remember for next time.

You are soon going to change your present line of work.

That's what the inscription from my fortune cookie reads. If life drops hints inside dough wrapped in plastic, I don't know if this sign bodes well for me. Either way, I'm holding onto this paper for a long time. Maybe when or if I make it, I'll look back and read it again.

New Post

Sorry for the mundane post title but it's the best I can come up with right now. I received a message from an employer asking me to call them back to verify a few things I listed on my resume. I'm not sure what they're asking, probably has to relate to my availability. I called them back but got their voicemail. Funny thing is I don't remember this specific employer. I'm sure I applied to them but with all the anonymous craigslist job postings, it's hard to identify the one to whom you sent your materials.

Another employer emailed me today to let me know my application isn't complete. They need a copy of my transcript because the one I sent doesn't list the name of my school or the matriculation date although it lists all my classes and units obtained for each term. I'm most likely going to email them a picture of my diploma.

Update 12-8-11
I spoke with a representative from the firm that wanted to verify a few things. It was mostly how much experience I have in certain areas and like always I answered with "none" to a lot of the questions. In that areas where I have no experience, I just resorted to telling her I will learn arduously and work hard for them. The rep said they'll call back if I qualify for an interview but with so many "nones" I gave, I doubt I'll hear a call for an interview. It was good to receive a call from an employer nonetheless.

I emailed the other employer a picture of my diploma but still have yet to know if it suffices for my application. I should get a response tomorrow.

Got my first gig..

I'll be getting my first paid assignment as an attorney tomorrow [actually it's today]!   I'm just to make an appearance for another lawyer who couldn't make it. It's nothing complicated and shouldn't be too bad I hope. Just contract work but maybe it leads to more work?  Anyway, I'm a little excited and nervous but it's the type of nervous that I look forward to experiencing.