Transitioning to Become a Truck Accident Attorney

Sometimes we all want a change. Sometimes it’s because we’re burned out. Sometimes it’s because we realize what we’re doing isn’t out true calling. And sometimes we just want to follow a dream. Well, I know for some of you there is a dream to become a great truck accident attorney. Today I’m going to give you an idea of exactly how to do that.

If you are already a practicing attorney, then you know how hard it can be to break into a new area of the law. There is a lot of information to learn, there are a lot of new people to meet, and there is likely a whole different style of practicing law.

Don’t fret. I’ve got three steps that you can follow to make sure you make the transition as smooth as possible.

1. Read. Read. Read.

The great thing about the law and lawyers is that we are all writers, and we love to be heard. Because of this, I know for a fact that there are at least two treatises out there specifically dealing with trucking accident lawyers and the law that they practice. In addition, I’m positive there is a state specific manual to teach you the ins and outs of state law.

This is what you do. Get those manuals and read them. Then read them again. And then take out the cases that you see over and over and that you know are important and go read them. When you’re done with that, do it one more time. This will give you the background you need to jump into the trucking accident lawyer market with a full head of steam.

2. CLE. CLE. CLE.

The next thing you want to do is get as much outside education as possible. There are always CLEs out there that talk about trucking accident law and techniques to maximize your effectiveness in the practice of it. Go to these and pay attention. And then, when the presentations are over, meet the speakers. Often they are the top dogs in that practice area. Introduce yourself to them and let them know you’ll be taking them out to coffee to ask them dumb questions, which is the third and final step.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

There is going to be a lot of practical information out there that can only be acquired with experience. When you need some of that, pick up the phone or send out an email and ask. Most people are more than welcome to help you with whatever questions you have, even if they are dumb. The reason? Everyone has been where you are now. And that’s why most are excited to help.

In the end, becoming a great truck accident attorney or transitioning into the practice isn’t hard. It takes some work. It takes some time. And it takes some humility. But just remember, nearly all the trucking accident lawyers you meet will have been where you are, and they’ll be excited that you’ve decided to join their group.

DTS- Jesse

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