CLE Programs

Most newly admitted lawyers — and even those in practice for a number of years — are not prepared to represent clients and are unaware of the range of options to practice law. At the same time, the media’s focus on large firm layoffs has left many lawyers and law students lacking in self-confidence, confused and uncertain about whether there are any jobs for them, even if there is any place for them in the legal community.  Paradoxically, the reality is that there continues to be an urgent, if not increased, need for legal services across all strata of our society. Small firm practice often results in lawyers deriving the benefits one expects from being a professional, i.e., intellectual stimulation, knowledge of a craft, feeling needed, creativity, client contact, autonomy, self-respect, integrity, and time for family and friends. Topics include:

• Why small firms are often discounted as the ideal place to begin one’s career;
• The demographics of the legal profession;
• The extent to which all segments of society continue to need the advice, counsel and representation attorneys can provide;
• The options, diversity and benefits of practice in small law firms;
• The importance of finding work and practice areas consistent with one’s values;
• Why lawyers need to focus on one area of the law;  
• The difference between applying for jobs and searching for openings;
• How to draft a targeted resume/brochure; and
• Techniques to successfully market and promote oneself.

After the workshop, participants will have gained the knowledge and confidence to begin to search for satisfying positions practicing law in small firms.

Jeffrey Petrucelly has been practicing law in Massachusetts for 34 years and is primarily engaged in general civil litigation practice; labor and employment law; business law and non-profit organizations; real estate and probate. In addition, he acts as an arbitrator and mediator for the American Arbitration Association, the Middlesex Multi-Door Courthouse Project, the National Association of Security Dealers and the New York Stock Exchange.

Kevin Powers has practiced law since 1978, concentrating in the areas of labor and employment law. He has tried over 100 cases and has received some of the largest jury verdicts in the field, including the $5.5 million verdict in the Clifton v. MBTA case. He has argued numerous employment cases before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court and Appeals Court, as well as the First Circuit Court of Appeals. In 2000, Mr. Powers was inducted into the prestigious College of Labor and Employment Lawyers and currently serves on the College’s Credentials Committee.