The Importance of Mentors at Jezic and Moyse, LLC

I think the most notable way in which the law firm utilizes leader/follower relationships is by encouraging the older, more experienced attorneys to mentor the younger associates. After talking with attorneys throughout the firm, and even some from other firms who I connected with in court, almost all agree that one of the most important tools young attorneys can have is to find a mentor in their specific field. This was especially emphasized by female attorneys, who stressed how their own experiences with mentors had shaped their career and the type of lawyer they became. Mentors are so critical, specifically in the legal field, because even with a law degree, no one really knows how to practice law until you gain years of practical experience. Having a mentor can help to navigate the first couple of confusing and overwhelming years. My supervisor is a great example of a mentor; he leads the department and has helped to bring in attorneys and help teach them immigration law, a branch of law which is completely distinct from other areas. Both of the attorneys who fall one level below him at the office agree that he has all the characteristics of a great mentor; he is patient, expects a lot, and isn’t afraid to let them work on their own. I have noticed this in his interactions with me as well. Even though he knows I don’t have any experience in this field, he is very willing to give me cases to work on without much initial guidance, in order to see what I can figure out myself. I have found that this kind of learning (being thrown into the fire and having to work quickly to catch up) has helped me to learn so much in such a short time. He is also very willing to teach, and is constantly giving me primers and readings on basics of immigration law, asking questions to make sure I understand, and even signing me up for workshops throughout D.C.