As legal professionals, we frequently engage in the practice of reflection, often contemplating choices made in our early careers. It can be a fruitful process, enabling us to identify areas of improvement and perhaps even guiding the advice we give to those setting out on their legal journey. A partner of the full-services New York and New Jersey firm, The Rothman Law Firm, Jordan Rothman, recently indulged in such reflection, outlining three subjects he wishes he had taken whilst at law school that would have better prepared him for his legal career.
Firstly, Rothman regrets not taking a course on local civil procedure. Despite most law students undertaking federal civil procedure, which undoubtedly has its place, the opportunity to learn civil procedure in local terms was something Rothman admits he missed. The amorphous nature of civil procedure across different jurisdictions made his transition into the practical sphere more challenging, a struggle he believes could have been mitigated with more localized study.
Secondly, bankruptcy law emerges as a key area of regret. Rothman’s experience reflects the interconnectedness of legal practice areas, demonstrating that despite specializing as a commercial litigator, the ripple effects of bankruptcy law reached his jurisdiction all-too-often. In hindsight, appreciating how different areas of law interplay could have been a valuable tool in his legal arsenal.
Lastly, Rothman ponders upon the practical advantages of studying immigration law. Despite not practicing immigration law, it is a topic that frequently comes up in daily life and practice. The ability to provide fundamental advice in this area could have been beneficial.
In sum, Rothman’s retrospective exercise provides an important lesson for law students and legal professionals alike. While academic pursuit in law school is noteworthy, the balance between academic and practical subjects can be quite crucial. Therefore, law students should consider their course choices with a focus not just on their immediate academic interests but also their long-term legal careers.
To learn more about Jordan Rothman’s reflections, read his full article here: subjects I wish I took in law school.