By: Craig Niedenthal

Craig Niedenthal — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:28:01 +0000

Carolyn: What a thoughtful piece. I too read the article regarding Mark Levy and my heart broke as I saw a man who appeared to have it all, but the harshness of Biglaw put him out to pasture. What a loss. Then to have this coupled with the article about Going Solo and what it takes provided such an interesting contrast. No doubt we have our stresses and moments when we are ready to throw in the towel, but one thing we know…this is ours to do with as we please and no one can make the decision to leave or get out but us alone. Our futures are not tied to anything but our own willingness to work hard and do what we can to improve our own futures. Thanks for putting such a great perspective on these two articles and how it corresponds to the 2 very different lives of lawyers.

By: Susan Cartier Liebel

Susan Cartier Liebel — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:15:27 +0000

Wow, Carolyn. What a thought-provoking and insightful piece. I have many similar stories to tell even though I only saw more envy from others of what I was doing, starting my own practice without having to answer to anyone.
And I never envied those who worked at larger firms. I simply admired those who took on great cases (and they could be biglaw or solos).
But, I agree, the perception is there is a lack of interest in what the ‘other half’ does. Strangely, in many instances I think they envy us, too.
And the cheerleader comment…anyone who takes more than three seconds to understand you, your writing, your thoughts, your perspective knows you are emotionally and professionally a fully-fleshed out, perfectly flawed human being who simply and with passion shares there is more to one’s career then ‘getting a job’. While we all live it, you take the inordinate amount of time to share it so others don’t feel so isolated.

Comments on: The Page Between Biglaw and Solo Practice, Between Life and Death

By: Craig Niedenthal

By: Susan Cartier Liebel