First week at my new in-house firm (a fund) and overwhelmed and missing my very busy v10. I feel out of my element and like I don't understand anything of what's going on around me. I left as a (new) 5th year so I thought i'd be ok but I think this fund thought I had more experience than I do. I only have one boss and she's so busy it's hard to ask her questions and I feel stupid asking basic questions. Should I go back to my firm? Am panicking a bit, is this normal? Appreciate any advice...

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Fake it till you make it.

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It’s normal feeling overwhelmed for the first few weeks or months being in house counsel. You may want stay a bit longer in order to assess if you really want to go back. I had this feeling every time I switch jobs, even from in-house to in-house. But I will never go back to firms, I love the WLB.

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yes her ! she's perfectly nice but does seem disappointed. This is good advice and I feel a little better. Thank you !!

Also a 5th year who just moved in-house (1.5 months ago). Sometimes I feel exactly the same way - there are just so many things that are new and scary. There are so many times where I wish I had my Sr partner from my firm to run things by. But, at the same time, things have improved a lot & - even though I’m still anxious - I’m starting to see how great of a fit this job could be 6 months from now. Just hang in there - I’m sure it will get better!

likeuplifting

Thank you for sharing this !!

Feeling the exact same thing going in house to firm. Just grind it out. No one expects you to be perfect. Just to try and show care

likehelpful

meaning you're at a firm now and overwhelmed ? be grateful you hopefully have all the support you need to get your job done well!

It’s only been a week! I felt that way during my first week of BL. First week of law school, etc. IMO, in-house is a totally new experience. You might be a 5th year in BL, but you’re still entering a different world so cut yourself some slack 🙂 You’ll have time to reasses in a bit… but maybe give yourself at least 2 months?

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Are you able to build any relationships with outside counsel to answer basic questions and help you get up to speed? To the extent you have any hiring / firing authority over outside counsel, or really any input into that whatsoever, part of their job or at least motivation is to help you perform well and look good so you keep hiring them.

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The smartest thing an outside counsel do when a new lawyer starts in house is offer to help get them up to speed and navigate the new role. Business Development 101 for them. You are not supposed to be a replacement for outside counsel, rather part of your job is to learn how to leverage them effectively. It is a symbiotic relationship

This is normal, and too shall pass.

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