Favorite Parts of Being a Partner at a Small Law Firm
John, a partner at a small law firm, most enjoys the "control of schedule" and intellectual stimulation their work provides, but finds fulfillment outside of legal practice, particularly through a 25-year commitment to coaching youth in mock trial, stating that it will likely be "the thing I'm most known for." The work is described as sometimes "drudgery," leading John to emphasize that a career "should be a means to an end that doesn't suck your soul."
Work-Life Balance, Intellectual Stimulation, Community Involvement, Compensation and Benefits, Career Longevity
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
John Fricks
Partner/attorney
Small Law Firm
Cal Poly
Boston University law degree (J.D.)
Computer Science
Law
Legal
Video Highlights
1. John enjoys the flexibility of controlling his own schedule.
2. He finds the work intellectually challenging and rewarding, despite occasional drudgery.
3. His involvement in the high school and middle school mock trial program is a significant source of fulfillment and a lasting legacy.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your current role?
Controlling my schedule, I do like that. Now that I have gray hair, people seem to listen a little more. I enjoyed helping people, frankly.
I've had a pretty good career and have been compensated well. The work is intellectual and challenging, and it can be rewarding. Sometimes it's drudgery, though. I don't live to be a lawyer.
I don't get up every day thinking, "Yes, I get to practice law today." I'm working on a cool project at my house that's occupying some of my mind space. The cool thing about it is that I have that mind space to focus on other projects.
I run the high school and middle school mock trial program in this county, and I have for 25 years. It will probably be my legacy, the thing I'm most known for. I love seeing kids get so excited at the award ceremony. We blow the roof off the place for an academic competition, and that keeps me going. You find those little things.
I can't say that my job is everything. It shouldn't be. It should be a means to an end that doesn't suck your soul.
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