With a new flock of attorneys soon to hit the street, Progressive Law Practice compiled some advice from experienced practitioners about law, life and everything in between. We ask each lawyer what advice would he offer third-year law students, whether it’s about the bar exam, what they can expect in their final semester of law school, or anything else you think would be helpful for a 3L?

Below are their responses (some have been edited for brevity and clarity).

Neil Ackerman

Managing Partner, Ackerman Fox, LLP

East Meadow, NY

Graduated from the American University Law School (Washington College of Law) 1981

"Try from the beginning of your career as an attorney to become involved in the area of law in which you want to practice. In making your decision as to what type of law you wish to practice, consider what’s involved in that type of law. For example, if you don’t like public speaking, don’t become a trial lawyer. Another tip is to consider whether you like the constant pressures of writing briefs and motions before embarking on an area of the law that requires them on a consistent basis because this is a way of life.

David Jacoby

Partner, Culhane Meadows Haughian & Walsh, New York City

Columbia Law School 1978 

"It’s very easy to get caught up with your work–-especially if it’s interesting–and lose track of other things. Keep a loose timeline somewhere in the back of your head for when you may want to accomplish things or make a change. For instance: if you really want to do trial work, after how much time should you think about making a move if you haven’t gotten to do any?" 

Allison C. Shields

President, Legal Ease Consulting, Inc., Mount Sinai, New York

Fordham University School of Law, 1993

"You usually have a bit of breathing room third year as far as classes go, so take advantage of opportunities during your third year that can help you to prepare for your legal career. Get as much practical experience as you can. Join a local bar association (many are free for law students), community group or organization and begin attending events–meet people and be open to networking.

"Whether you have a job lined up already or not, the value of making great connections (and practicing doing so and talking to people you don’t know) can’t be over-stated. You could find a mentor, learn about a new area of the law, start a path to a leadership position in the community or learn about new job opportunities. 

"If your school offers clinical programs, sign up. If you want to litigate, join moot court or participate in mock trial competitions if they are offered. Look for an internship or a part-time job to see first-hand what it’s like to work in a law firm or in other legal environments. If you like to write, see if you can write an article for your local bar journal or bar association newspaper, or an online outlet. See if you can team up with a practicing lawyer to teach a CLE class. Any of these experiences will serve you well upon graduation. Good luck and don’t forget to have fun!"

Tami Kamin Meyer is an Ohio attorney and writer.