How much criticism is normal. It seems like not a week goes by where a partner or coworker points out deficiency in work. I'm trying but it's like I was supposed to be perfect day one.

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Pointing out a deficiency is not the same thing as expecting you to be perfect from day one. It’s just the nature of the job. You don’t know everything. People supervise you who have more experience. They provide corrections so you can learn.

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That’s assuming the “criticisms” are about the law. If you’re getting feedback about projects that have typos, etc. than yes. You are expected to be perfect on those things. Or at least strive for perfection.

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Try not to take things personally. I’m in my third year of practice, I get criticisms daily from my partner. Some days it’s harder to take than others, and I feel like I’ll never get anything right. Remember that you’re part of a team, and your work product is reflective of the team, so everyone wants to help you improve. Take a deep breath and remember that everyone appreciates that you’re doing your best, and they’re happy to have you.

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Sounds like you need to learn how to accept and deal with criticism. First two or three years out of LS is where you actually learn anything of value so you'd be better served tucking the ego away and learning from those who care enough to even offer criticism.

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Lawyers have a bad habit of just pointing to the problems. It’s a common tick in the industry. It doesn’t mean you need to doubt yourself. It doesn’t mean you’re not well liked. It’s just how people expect you to learn. Just remember in a few years to give positive feedback, too.

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You learn from mistakes and getting feedback. Although its not always good for morale sake, it will make you a better lawyer in the future and you won't make the same mistake twice. Eventually the criticism will lighten up hopefully as you learn and improve. And understand that you won't always get a good job when you actually do great or a pat on the back. Its just the way it is and not only in law. Just set goals for self and check off boxes when you accomplish them to give yourself that self gratification.

During my first year I thought I was incompetent and would get fired most of the days. It gets better. Most ppl get tons of criticism, they just don’t talk about it 🙂. You will improve. Noone expects you to know anything useful until about third year anyway.

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