LEGAL INSIGHTS

Updates and advice for attorneys and law departments.

Top 5 Soft Skills to Look For in DC Lawyers

Hiring Tips from the Legal Staffing Experts in Washington DC

All attorneys need a sound understanding of the substantive law that governs their practice areas, as well as a thorough knowledge of court procedures.  What separates merely competent attorneys from their superstar counterparts, however, are the “soft skills” they bring to the table.

If you’re looking to switch jobs or move up the ranks in your current organization, consider brushing up on these top five crucial attorney soft skills:

1.     Oral and written communication

Language is an attorney’s stock-in-trade, so it stands to reason that an attorney’s communication skills must be first-rate.  Whether in speech or in writing, great lawyers convey information in a clear, concise, and logical manner.  They use persuasive techniques to their fullest and can draft effective legal documents, including briefs, memoranda, resolutions, and legal agreements.

2.     Client service

The legal industry is a client-focused one, which means that attorneys must have the skills to serve clients effectively.  Focus on rainmaking, client development, and customer service skills to more effectively serve clients.

3.     Technological skills

Technology is changing the way attorneys practice law throughout the world.  To face these changes and serve clients effectively, lawyers must be able to work with multiple software platforms, including word processors, presentation software, and platforms that manage billing, scheduling, and case management.  Communications tools including smartphones and tablets, emails, voice messaging, and videoconferencing are also part of a technologically sophisticated attorney’s repertoire, as is the ability to perform legal research via electronic databases like Westlaw and Lexis.

4.     Time management

An attorney’s ability to manage time efficiently and effectively is crucial.  Multitasking skills are a must, as are the ability to balance competing priorities and meet tight deadlines.  A strong work ethic boosts time management skills for many lawyers.

5.     Organization

Because attorneys typically deal with several ongoing cases or projects at a time, staying organized is indispensable.  Attorneys must be able to sort, order, and manage large volumes of information in various formats.  They must also be able to identify objectives and catalogue data that may have little in common other than its relevancy to a single particular case.

The experienced recruiters at Assigned Counsel can help you find the legal position you’re looking for. Contact our team today.

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