What do you get when you cross a soon-to-be lawyer with an ex-paralegal with a penchant for spreadsheets, Redwelds, and filing systems? Well, I guess you get me. I'm a 3L, about to tackle my last semester of law school, and I have got some 'splainin' to do to my family and friends who thought I'd be logging 80 hours in an office somewhere doing document review for the foreseeable future.
The little economic hiccup we've all been experiencing, combined with that perennial question (So, what kind of law are you going to practice?) has made me do some hard thinking and led me to have some not-so-fun conversations with myself.
Me: So why did you go to law school again?
Myself: Well, if you recall, I was a rockin' commercial real estate paralegal, and I wanted more than anything to do my own deals as an attorney. I wanted developers calling me to talk about ground lease terms and waterfall provisions. I wanted the fancy cocktail parties to celebrate condo high rise closings. And I really wanted my name on some big deals.
I: Well, did you think that was going to last forever?
Me: ...
I came to realize that what I really enjoyed about being a paralegal, and what I have enjoyed throughout my life, is taking a big batch of chaotic *stuff* and creating order. In every job I've ever had, I've made my mark by creating an organizational system. I created two client numbering systems and tracking databases for two different law firms. I have helped organize and execute two law firm moves to new buildings and the move of a sole practitioner to a new office. My mom says "wow" when she looks at my linen closet. I'm just a natural born organizer.
What do I do with myself now that my law school career is near its end? Well, I'm going to organize your office. I'm going to help you figure out how to track your invoices and billing. I may even set up a spreadsheet for you to get a grip on your escrow accounts.
So please stay tuned as I launch this new endeavor. I'm excited to show you what I can do.
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