VIEW BIO"From day one, I've been learning from a team of mentors. My office is next to my Work Supervisor, two down from our Co-Managing Director, and three down from another Labor and Employment attorney. Additionally, my Section Leader comes to Raleigh weekly. I grow through being part of this team."
Justin T. Hill
In the dynamic realm of law, where every case presents a unique challenge and every judgment holds significant consequences, the journey from novice attorney to seasoned professional is both exhilarating and arduous.
It's a journey marked not only by individual effort and perseverance but also by the guidance and support provided by mentors and sponsors within the legal community.
At Ward and Smith, we recognize the pivotal role that teamwork, sponsorship, and one-on-one mentoring play in shaping the careers of aspiring attorneys, and we are committed to fostering an environment where growth, learning, and excellence thrive.
Mentoring
Mentorship serves as the cornerstone of professional development in the legal field. Seasoned attorneys possess a wealth of knowledge, experience, and insights gained through years of practice, and by sharing this wisdom with junior colleagues, they empower the next generation of legal professionals to navigate complex legal landscapes with confidence and competence.
Mentorship goes beyond imparting legal knowledge; it involves offering guidance on career decisions, providing feedback on performance, teaching client communication, modeling being a good law partner, and instilling values of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct. At Ward and Smith, our mentorship program pairs less experienced attorneys with daily work supervisors who serve as trusted advisors and champions, offering guidance and support every step of the way.
One-on-one mentoring offers a personalized approach to professional development, allowing attorneys to receive individualized attention and tailored guidance that addresses their unique strengths, weaknesses, and career aspirations. Whether it's honing legal skills, developing a niche practice area, or striking a healthy work-life balance, one-on-one mentoring provides a supportive framework for attorneys to grow and excel in their careers.
At Ward and Smith, we believe in the power of personalized mentorship to unlock each attorney's full potential and propel them toward success.
Sponsorship
In addition to mentorship, sponsorship plays a crucial role in advancing the careers of budding attorneys. While mentors provide guidance and advice, sponsors actively advocate for their protégés, opening doors to opportunities for career advancement and visibility within the firm and the broader legal community.
Sponsors use their influence and networks to endorse talented individuals, recommend them for high-profile assignments and leadership roles, and ensure their voices are heard and valued. At Ward and Smith, we understand the importance of sponsorship in nurturing talent and fostering inclusion within our ranks. Through informal sponsorship relationships and formal team, department, and office networks, we empower attorneys to reach their full potential and achieve their professional goals.
Ongoing Training
We also prioritize ongoing training for our attorneys, particularly those with fewer than three years of practice experience. Our monthly New Attorney Training Curriculum covers a range of topics crucial for professional development, including law firm economics, career ownership, effective communication, self-care, feedback management, and business development strategies.
Additionally, we facilitate integration meetings for new attorneys across all five of our offices, ensuring they develop meaningful working relationships and a comprehensive understanding of our firm's culture and values.
Teamwork
The benefits of mentorship, sponsorship, training, and teamwork extend far beyond the individual attorney; they contribute to our firm's overall success and vitality. By investing in the growth and development of our attorneys, we cultivate a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration that sets us apart in the legal landscape.
At Ward and Smith, teamwork is part of what sets us apart from other firms. We do not track originations and don't behave in ways that divide us. We work with each other rather than for each other, and that attitudinal difference is very important to our culture.
Our commitment to each other not only strengthens our talent pipeline but also enhances client service, fosters diversity and inclusion, and reinforces our reputation as a trusted partner and leader in the legal community.
In conclusion, mentorship, sponsorship, and one-on-one mentoring are indispensable pillars of professional growth and success in the legal profession.
At Ward and Smith, we are dedicated to providing our attorneys with the guidance, support, and opportunities they need to thrive and make meaningful contributions to the legal profession and society at large.
