My mother was relieved when I told her I was moving to Boston to attend New England Law | Boston. She envisioned my future as a lawyer like many people do: a stable, successful job in a firm with an office and a secretary, and in 40 years, a retirement party and a gold watch.
For many, law school is associated with pursuing a lucrative big law job, where prestige and paycheck take precedence over personal happiness and work-life balance. As I observed my law school friends competing for positions, I felt there had to be a better way. The stress and the grueling hours they were willing to endure didn't align with my vision of a fulfilling life or legal career.
During my first year of law school, through New England's summer fellowship program, I discovered Justice Bridge. This unique initiative supports attorneys within their first five years of practice by providing resources and mentorship to establish a practice. In return, these attorneys commit to serving moderate-income clients at a discounted rate.
During that first summer with Justice Bridge, I worked with Legal Squirrel, a revolutionary technology designed to streamline intake, referral processes and knowledge management. Working with Justice Bridge and Legal Squirrel resolved two of the biggest blockers I felt before opening my practice: how to be a lawyer and how to get clients. Through the mentorship and referrals I could receive through both, I felt secure enough to continue down the path of ownership.
Over the next two years, I tried to take courses that would prepare me to open a practice and provide me with practical guidance, such as Advanced Legal Research with Kristin McCarthy and Law Practice Management with David Russman.
As graduation approached, I made a decision that many considered unconventional and, as my mom would say, reckless — I didn't apply for a job. I decided to open my legal practice. It was a decision fueled by my desire for freedom, the need to be present for my family, the flexibility to focus on my mental and physical health, and my yearning to engage in activities that resonated with me. I craved autonomy — the ability to choose my clients and cases based on my values and interests.
Despite my determination, I was painfully aware of my lack of practical experience. I recognized that I had a steep learning curve ahead of me, but I also knew I was among many people to do this. As I sought guidance, I turned to mentors, collaborators, and the wealth of knowledge available through the local law library.
After I took the bar, I read everything I could get my hands on about starting a law practice. While some sources painted it as a last-ditch effort after bombing on-campus interviews or being unexpectedly fired, I refused to accept that narrative. Instead, I focused on the aspects that resonated with me and provided valuable insights into building a practice. Resources like Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education’s (MCLE) "Hanging Your Own Shingle" and MIT's "Nuts and Bolts of Entrepreneurship" and the wisdom of experienced attorneys were invaluable. Building a team of people I can call when I don't know something has been instrumental to my success — specifically the kind and patient attorneys at Clifford Law Office; Hachey Urbanoski Law; Peridot Family Law; and Kerstein, Coren and Lichtenstein. The Massachusetts legal community is filled with beautiful and supportive people, and I am so proud to be a part of it. No attorney I have wanted to learn from has told me "No" when I have called and told them I wanted to know more about what they do.
After my first appearance in court, I confided in opposing counsel that I had only been sworn in three months prior. Her response was a testament to the kindness of the bar. She praised my performance and introduced me to every lawyer she knew in the courthouse that day.
I have learned no one knows all the answers; in fact, it is best to assume you don’t know the answer and double-check before you tell anyone you know anything. The power of a legal education is not that you learn how to be a lawyer but that you learn where to find answers. I learned to rely on my resources, ask questions, and seek guidance when needed. I discovered the support I needed to excel in my legal career through organizations like Justice Bridge, MCLE, the Social Law Library and the Board of Bar Overseers Ethics Hotline.
I am often asked whether it's possible to make a living starting a law practice after law school, and the answer is yes. I've supported my family with the income from my law practice for the past year. I set clear financial goals and committed to adhering to my law school budget for an additional three years. Remarkably, within the first six months, I surpassed my initial goal of a $6,000 month and am on track to achieve my next financial milestone. I expect to hit it before the first anniversary of my firm.
Approximately one-third of my income comes from work at other law firms. As I sought advice from mentors and openly discussed my experiences and challenges, I discovered that many lawyers were overwhelmed and needed assistance. I started taking on surplus tasks from mentors, pinch-hitting court appearances, doing legal research, and writing. Their willingness to offer contract work, share leads and entrust me with their clients contributed to my income and provided invaluable lessons that I applied to my practice. Through their work, I am learning what kind of attorney I want to be.
People often tell me I'm brave for starting my practice. However, I don't consider myself brave — I followed my heart and pursued a path that felt right for me. Now, friends who initially embarked on corporate and big law careers are contacting me. They seek advice and insight into my chosen path, and I'm more than happy to share my experiences because I am having so much fun.
My name is Jess Landry. I am the owner of Ivy Law PC. I started my practice in January 2023 after graduating from New England Law | Boston in May 2022 and passing the bar in July 2022; I swore in as an attorney in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in November 2022. Being a lawyer is an honor and a privilege. This is the best job I have ever had, and I love what I do.
I named my law office Ivy to remind myself that we put down our roots and grow. I am still growing. I am still learning. I am still looking for mentors and collaborators. Thank you for allowing me to share the story of my practice with you, and thank you for allowing me the privilege of being a part of this community.
Jess Landry is the owner of Ivy Law PC, which she started in January 2023. She is a graduate of New England Law | Boston and admitted to practice in Massachusetts.