You Are A Lawyer: Take Risks and Change Careers in Law

Taylor Tieman shares her journey from transitioning from civil litigation to starting her own law firm focused on transactional law, entertainment, and intellectual property. She discusses her unique approach to running LegalMiga Law PC, including offering subscription-based legal services and a template library to make legal assistance more accessible to business owners. Taylor's innovative mindset and commitment to providing affordable legal solutions showcase the possibilities of utilizing a law degree beyond traditional paths.

Lawyer Side Hustles

The Legalmiga Library is a template educational library aimed at providing affordable legal resources to business owners. Taylor recognized the need for a middle ground solution for clients who couldn't afford custom legal services but still required essential legal documents. The library offers attorney-drafted templates that allow business owners to access necessary contracts and agreements at a lower cost than custom drafting. By creating the Legalmiga Library, Taylor has not only addressed the access to justice gap but also demonstrated a proactive approach to serving a wider range of clients who may not have the budget for traditional legal services.

"There's more people running solo practices than I think we are thinking about when we're in law school," shares Taylor Tieman in Episode 156 of You Are a Lawyer.

Taylor's journey from civil litigation to starting her own firm specializing in transactional law and intellectual property showcases the possibilities for lawyers to carve out unique niches. Taylor's success in creating Legalmiga Law PC and offering subscription-based legal services and template libraries exemplifies how lawyers can blend their legal skills with entrepreneurship to build successful side ventures.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The benefits of subscription-based legal services and the impact on revenue predictability for a law firm
• The significance of Legalmiga library, providing attorney-drafted templates for affordable legal solutions
• The importance of setting travel goals and making time for personal interests

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Taylor's journey in creating a unique and approachable law firm brand, Legalmiga, and the meaning behind the name
• The challenges and rewards of running a solo law practice and the importance of pushing boundaries for community access to legal services
• The balance between traditional office space and remote work preferences in the legal profession

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

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Ashley Menzies Babatunde shares her journey from white-collar investigations to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work within big law firms. In this episode, she discusses the importance of authenticity in the workplace, the evolution of corporate culture towards acceptance, and the significance of following one's curiosity to find purpose and success in the legal field. Ashley's insights inspire young lawyers and law students to embrace their creativity and take risks in their legal careers.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Ashley Menzies Babatunde shared her journey of transitioning into a role focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the legal context. She emphasized the importance of following one's curiosity and interests to find a path aligned with purpose. Ashley's experience highlights how legal skills can be applied in various fields, such as marketing, business, or government, showcasing the versatility of a law degree.

"I think lawyers are so, they're so smart and interesting and capable... understanding that it can be done. And so many of us are doing it," shares Ashley Menzies Babatunde in Episode 155 of You Are a Lawyer.

Ashley's story also underscores the value of pursuing side businesses as a lawyer. She mentioned the importance of authenticity and honesty in professional settings. This authenticity can extend to side hustles, allowing lawyers to explore their passions and interests outside their legal careers. Ashley's journey of starting a podcast while working in DEI showcases how lawyers can leverage their skills and experiences to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to bring authenticity to your work and navigate cultural norms in professional settings
• The value of embracing creativity and taking risks as a lawyer to explore different opportunities
• The importance of following your curiosity and interests to find a career path aligned with your purpose

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The evolution of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the legal industry
• Personal stories of transitioning careers and finding passion in storytelling and DEI work
• Insights on balancing work, podcasting, and personal life, including the experience of being a new parent

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Mathew Kerbis, the innovative subscription attorney, shared insights on his unique subscription-based legal services for freelancers and small business owners in this episode. He discussed his transition from litigation to transactional law, the inspiration behind starting his law practice, and the importance of access to justice through his subscription model. Tune in to learn more about how Mathew is revolutionizing the legal field with his innovative business model.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Mathew Kerbis, the Subscription Attorney, shared his experience of starting his virtual law practice with a subscription-based model while running a podcast. He emphasized the importance of thinking like a lawyer and learning about business and entrepreneurship outside law school.

"Law school doesn't teach you how to do that. It teaches you how to think like a lawyer, which works, and I've come around on that a little bit, but since law school is so lacking in that area, I've just consumed as much as I can about running a business and how to be efficient and all that," shares Mathew Kerbis in Episode 154 of You Are a Lawyer.

Having a side business as a lawyer can provide additional income and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Mathew's journey from a litigator to a transactional attorney and entrepreneur showcases the possibilities of pursuing side hustles in the legal field. By leveraging his legal expertise and passion for performance arts, Mathew created a unique business model that caters to freelancers and small business owners.

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Steven Weigler shares his diverse career journey, from working in criminal law in Miami to founding his startup focused on education. He discusses the importance of taking risks, building relationships, and being open to new opportunities, emphasizing the value of your legal education in navigating various career paths. Steven's insights highlight the versatility of a law degree and the importance of being adaptable in the ever-changing legal landscape.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Steven's journey from working in criminal law to starting his own company showcases the versatility of a law degree in pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors. He emphasizes the importance of being open to taking risks and exploring different career paths, even if they may not align with the typical trajectory of a lawyer's career. Steven's experience highlights the value of leveraging legal skills and critical thinking in diverse industries like e-commerce and business consulting.

"You have to go and talk to people and find out how they got there," shares Steven Weigler in Episode 153 of You Are a Lawyer.

Lawyers can gain valuable insights into different industries and potential side hustle opportunities by engaging with mentors and industry experts. Steven's advice encourages lawyers to proactively seek advice and learn from those who have successfully navigated non-traditional career paths, ultimately empowering them to pursue side businesses with confidence and strategic planning.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of being open to taking risks and exploring different career paths with a law degree
• The value of networking and seeking advice from successful individuals in various industries
• The significance of being trainable and adaptable when transitioning to a new career outside of law

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Steven's journey from criminal law to corporate counsel in telecommunications to starting his own law firm focusing on e-commerce and IP law
• The challenges and rewards of working in the e-commerce industry, particularly in dealing with counterfeits and international clients
• Advice for young lawyers and law students on navigating their legal careers and considering alternative career paths

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

John Teakell shares his journey from being a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney's Office to transitioning into private practice as a federal criminal defense attorney. Throughout the episode, John discusses his experiences in the legal field, the challenges of balancing work and law school, and the importance of staying open to new opportunities and career transitions.

Lawyer Side Hustles

John Teakell's journey from prosecution to defense showcases the flexibility and opportunities available to lawyers in pursuing alternative career paths. As John mentioned in the podcast, having experience managing an office, handling expenses, and making business decisions as a lawyer can provide a solid foundation for venturing into side businesses. His transition from a government prosecutor to starting his own law firm highlights the potential for lawyers to leverage their legal expertise in entrepreneurial endeavors.

"If you have the tenacity to continue to do that, I think that gives you some confidence and bolsters trying to jump into something else," shares John Teakell in Episode 152 of You Are a Lawyer.

By utilizing their legal skills and business acumen, lawyers can successfully navigate the challenges of running a side hustle while maintaining their legal practice. Whether consulting, writing books, or pursuing creative endeavors like art, lawyers can embrace new ventures and expand their professional horizons.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of following your interests and passions when choosing a legal career path
• The significance of maintaining a healthy attitude towards change and exploring new opportunities throughout your legal career
• The benefits of combining different skills and experiences to create unique career paths in law and beyond

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The insights into balancing work and law school, including the challenges and benefits of pursuing a law degree while working
• The evolving nature of legal careers and the possibilities for exploring alternative paths within and outside the legal profession
• The transition from prosecution to defense in the legal field and the considerations involved in making such a shift

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Eric Morgan, the CEO and marketing strategist at Roux Advertising, delves into the importance of branding and strategy in legal marketing. With a focus on specialization rather than being a generalist, Eric shares insights on how data-driven approaches can help law firms grow and thrive in today's competitive market. Tune in to learn how Eric's visionary leadership and expertise have helped numerous law firms achieve significant growth and success.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Lawyer side hustles can be great for diversifying income streams and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities. As Eric Morgan highlighted in the episode, lawyers often have a passion for the business side of law firms. They may find fulfillment in expanding their reach into new markets or industries. By leveraging their legal expertise and understanding of branding and marketing, lawyers can successfully venture into side businesses that complement their legal practice. Eric's emphasis on specialization and expertise resonates with the idea of lawyers pursuing side hustles that align with their skills and interests, ultimately enhancing their professional growth and financial stability.

"I believe there are people that are going to law school now who don't necessarily want to practice law. They just want to be in the business of law firms," shares Eric Morgan in Episode 151 of You Are a Lawyer.

For lawyers considering side hustles, Eric's insight underscores the importance of following one's passion and expertise, whether it be in marketing, branding, or other business-related ventures. By embracing a visionary approach and focusing on specialized areas of interest, lawyers can effectively navigate the complexities of running a side business while maintaining their legal practice.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The significance of strategy in marketing and advertising
• The value of specializing in specific industries rather than being a generalist
• How data analysis can drive marketing decisions and improve business outcomes

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The evolution of the advertising industry and the need for visionary leadership
• The benefits of expanding a law firm's reach into new markets
• The role of communication and branding in growing a legal practice

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm for business owners. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Ruth Jeremiah, a legal analyst and lawyer based in Dallas, Texas, shared her journey from document review to working in the tax department of a large publishing company. Despite feeling like a failure, Ruth's perseverance and dedication led her to a fulfilling career where she utilized her legal skills in analyzing tax law. Tune in to this episode of the You Are a Lawyer podcast to hear Ruth's inspiring story of resilience and growth in the legal field.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Ruth's journey from document review to a legal analyst in the tax department of a publishing company showcases the importance of exploring different opportunities within the legal field. Ruth's experience demonstrates that having a side business or pursuing alternative legal roles can lead to unexpected career paths and professional growth.

"I really wanted to use more of my legal skills in a more permanent environment," shares Ruth Jeremiah in Episode 150 of You Are a Lawyer.

Lawyers like Ruth, who have pursued side hustles or alternative legal roles, have found success by leveraging their legal skills in unique ways. Ruth's transition from document review to a legal analyst role at Thomson Reuters exemplifies how lawyers can apply their legal knowledge in diverse settings. Ruth's journey underscores the importance of being open to unconventional career paths within the legal field.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of perseverance and patience in pursuing career goals, even when faced with challenges
• The value of volunteering in legal matters to keep skills sharp and enhance marketability in the legal field
• The experience of transitioning from document review to a legal analyst role in corporate tax, showcasing the diverse paths available to law school graduates

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The impact of law school education on career choices and the consideration of whether attending law school would be a decision one would make again
• The balance between theory-based learning in law school and practical application in advocacy work, highlighting the potential benefits of direct field experience

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Bryan Aghakhani, a partner at Borden Semmer specializing in personal injury trial cases, shares valuable insights on the importance of marketing and networking for lawyers in this episode. He emphasizes the significance of building relationships, utilizing communication skills, and maintaining a proactive approach to grow and maintain a successful legal practice. Bryan's practical advice for young lawyers and law students underscores the essential skills needed to excel in the legal profession..

Lawyer Side Hustles

Side hustles for lawyers can be a valuable way to diversify income streams and explore other interests outside of traditional legal practice. Bryan Aghakhani's emphasis on communication, judgment, and writing as essential skills for lawyers can be leveraged in various side businesses. Whether it's starting a legal consulting service, writing legal articles for publications, or offering legal workshops, lawyers can use their expertise to create successful side hustles.

"Use the skills that you learn in law school to figure out a plan, execute it, and use those skills in whatever your interest is in life," shares Bryan Aghakhani in Episode 149 of You Are a Lawyer.

Having a side business as a lawyer not only provides additional income but also allows for personal and professional growth. Lawyers can enhance their networking skills, build a personal brand, and gain valuable experience in different areas by engaging in side hustles. Bryan's advice to young attorneys to understand their opponents and adapt their communication style can be directly applied to managing a side business. By knowing how to interact with clients, partners, and customers, lawyers can effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of running a side hustle.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of marketing and networking for lawyers, even if they are not looking for a new job or trying to leave a firm
• The significance of communication, judgment, and writing skills for young lawyers or law students
• The value of tracking metrics and setting goals to build confidence and trust in oneself

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Bryan's approach to marketing, including joining various marketing groups, attending meetings, and following up with contacts regularly
• The role of sales in the legal profession and the importance of building trust and relationships with clients and colleagues
• Advice for young lawyers on utilizing their law degree skills in various career paths and understanding the importance of knowing opponents in legal interactions

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Elizabeth Larrick, a former litigator turned focus group consultant, shares her journey of transitioning from practicing law to helping trial lawyers with focus groups, witness prep, and trial strategy. In this episode, Elizabeth discusses the evolution of her business, the importance of creativity in the legal field, and the value of utilizing virtual platforms for focus groups. Tune in to gain insights into trial preparation and consulting with Elizabeth Larrick.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Lawyer side hustles can offer legal professionals a unique opportunity to explore their passions and diversify their income streams. Elizabeth Larrick, a former litigator turned consultant, shared her transition from practicing law to running her focus group business. She emphasized the importance of leveraging one's strengths and pursuing what one is passionate about, even if it means stepping away from traditional legal practice.

"I always had it there and it just kind of started to naturally grow. And the other side, you know, the practice of law was kind of not shrinking, but just not really growing either," shares Elizabeth Larrick in Episode 148 of You Are a Lawyer.

Having a side business as a lawyer allows for personal and professional growth beyond the confines of traditional legal practice. Elizabeth's experience showcases how lawyers can utilize their legal training and expertise in various entrepreneurial ventures. By tapping into their unique skill set, lawyers can offer specialized services, such as consulting or niche legal services, to a targeted audience.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Why trial lawyers need a focus group
• The value of creativity and finding ways to express it in your work
• The potential career paths and opportunities available to lawyers beyond traditional practice

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The role of focus groups in case preparation and trial strategy
• The benefits of seeking outside perspectives and feedback in legal practice
• Ways to promote and market a consulting business, including leveraging existing networks and online platforms

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Whitney Harvey, a serial entrepreneur and founder of The Self-Coached Lawyer, shares her entrepreneurship journey and career pivots in this episode. From expanding her business to being recognized as one of the top 40 under 40 by the Phoenix Business Journal, Whitney discusses the importance of authenticity, self-promotion, and taking risks in crafting your ideal profession.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Whitney Harvey's business, The Self-Coached Lawyer, is not limited to the legal profession but extends its reach to community visionaries and advocates seeking to tap into their purpose and repurpose their current careers. Through her business, Whitney emphasizes the importance of addressing burnout, well-being, finding one's purpose, and incorporating spiritual and mindfulness components into one's profession.

"You really can craft your ideal profession...it's looking at the parts of what you've done that you do enjoy, keeping that. So you can keep that on your plate. And then you can innovate. You can explore and do something that's never been done," shares Whitney Harvey in Episode 147 of You Are a Lawyer.

Whitney also highlighted the possibility of having a side business as a lawyer, emphasizing the importance of exploring different avenues without immediately quitting one's day job. She mentioned how individuals can work part-time for someone else, teach at a college or university, engage in speaking engagements, or delve into coaching and consulting while still maintaining their current profession. This approach allows for the freedom to explore and create a unique career path tailored to individual interests and aspirations.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to pivot and change careers as needed in entrepreneurship
• The importance of self-nomination and self-promotion in achieving recognition and validation
• The value of authenticity and owning one's uniqueness in business and professional settings
• How to become a powerhouse woman!

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The journey of entrepreneurship and the impact of exploring different industries
• The experience of attending and being recognized at the Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40 award ceremony
• The significance of investing in oneself and sponsoring personal achievements

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.