3 Key Lessons I’ve learned after 2 years at ConMoto Group
Over two years ago now, I was fortunate enough to begin my career at ConMoto Group, a progressive local law firm that places a premium on innovation through legal technology (Cadence) and a modern work culture. In my time here, I’ve gained insights that have reshaped how I view the law and my role as a legal professional. Below, I’m sharing the three biggest lessons I’ve learned from my first two years on the job.
1: Being a Lawyer Is About Problem-Solving, Not Just Lawyering
When I first started, I assumed the primary role of a lawyer was to know the law and apply it to the letter. While legal knowledge is certainly crucial, I quickly realised that the core function of being a lawyer is actually problem-solving and especially in commercial law it’s about viewing the legal risks through the commercial lens of each business that you represent and their respective risk profiles.
At ConMoto Group, we focus heavily on finding solutions that are not only legally sound but also align with our clients’ goals and long-term objectives. This means thinking outside the box and considering various angles before recommending a course of action.
The lesson? Law is just a framework—problem-solving is the real skill that matters. Lawyers should be skilled at navigating uncertainty, synthesising information, and offering actionable solutions.
2: The Importance of Collaboration
As a new lawyer, I imagined the profession to be a competitive, “sink or swim” environment where solo performance and personal accolades ruled the day (i.e. the TV show Suits). But working in a collaborative, team-oriented firm has taught me the value of collective success and has accelerated my learning. From brainstorming sessions to peer reviews, working together yields better results for our clients.
The lesson? Collaboration breeds success. You don’t always have to figure it out by yourself. Learning from your peers and working as a team is a powerful way to grow and deliver high-quality legal services especially as a young lawyer it is essential to have the confidence (and be encouraged) to reach out and ask for help or advice - that’s how you grow and learn!
3: Mind Mapping Helps Clarify Complex Problems
I found that visual tools like mind maps can be invaluable for unpacking complex issues. When faced with intricate legal problems, mapping out the various elements—stakeholders, timelines, possible outcomes—helps clarify the situation and leads to more effective strategies.
Creating mind maps not only aids in visualising the problem but also encourages creative thinking and collaboration with colleagues. By breaking down complex issues into manageable components, I can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the case at hand.
The lesson? Use mind mapping as a technique to draw out the nuances of a problem. It enhances clarity and fosters collaborative brainstorming, ultimately leading to better solutions.
As I reflect on these past two years, I realise how much I’ve grown both as a lawyer and as a person. The legal profession is a constantly evolving one, but the lessons I’ve learned here at ConMoto Group have been invaluable in shaping my approach to work, my relationships with clients and colleagues, and my overall career trajectory.
As I look forward to the next two years (and beyond), I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and contributing to a field that is, despite its challenges, full of opportunity and impact.
