During the pandemic, the legal industry, much like the rest of the workforce, was rocked by immense change. In particular, the demands of maintaining a work-life balance drove many women out of the profession, opting to focus their energy on household duties and childcare. According to a report by CNBC, burnout was a significant factor in these decisions, with the problem seeming particularly pervasive amongst attorneys working in litigation- or family law-heavy practice.
The narrative remains consistent: balancing childcare, house chores, and a demanding job filled with incessant conflicts has proven unsustainable. The pandemic has spotlighted the importance of family, revealing the lack of adequate support for working parents, prompting many to leave their practice areas or the profession entirely.
Career transitioning is, of course, not without its difficulties. Switching practice areas or starting your own enterprise after years of practice can throw you into unprecedented challenges. The questions range from how to gain experience in a new field to dealing with the potential financial setbacks that may follow a career switch. However, these are hurdles one must be prepared to overcome, especially in the quest for a better work-life balance.
Nurturing or reestablishing a professional network can be instrumental in navigating through this process. With the right network, technology tools, and services (like those of a certified public accountant), it is possible to successfully transition and start anew.
In the midst of a significant career transition, Nadia Bettac, a former insurance defense/personal injury attorney, narrates her experience. After much confusion and self-assessment, she moved from litigation practice to start her own mediation practice. To aid other professionals who may be in a similar position, she shares her story in an article titled “Allow Me To Reintroduce Myself” posted on Above The Law. She ends by encouraging other legal professionals not to fear reintroducing themselves to their legal communities.