1st and 2nd year Big Law Trial Associates: what kind of work are you doing? Do you contribute to drafting motions, or just providing research?

Describe your day to day and your assignments.

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As a first year, I cross examined one of two plaintiffs in a defense-side securities trial, did the direct of our securities expert, and gave closing argument. I also defended depos in the Netherlands and handled solo depo prep for the CEO of a company facing 200mm in damages.

Argued probably 10 hearings that year too.

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As a second year (I changed firms from a 40 lawyer firm to BL at 9 months) I'm doing first drafts of memos and drafting all responsive pleadings, complaints, etc... I'm often lost AF. But, it seems like I'm getting my hand on a lot of substantive work.

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As a first year I researched and drafted two motions to dismiss, argued them both in federal court, and presented a witness and evidence in an evidentiary hearing. I also prepared witnesses for depos and attended depos.

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What did you do for the other 11 months?

likefunny

Research pretty much.

First

Research

Doc review and management, just drafted my first answer (had minimal changes which was nice), research and memos, draft deposition outlines and prep materials, and several simpler motions so far. First year. Varies between all of the above day to day.

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