Maybe I'm crazy, but I feel as though most people in law school are embarking on a voyage into the legal field without a clue as to how it all works. I also feel that most of my classmates are misled about what it is to be a lawyer.
I am 3 months away from graduating law school (University of Alberta). I feel greatly blessed that I have been able to make it this far without too many scars (at least not many deep scars), and that I have an article to look forward to. I am shocked by how many of my classmates are still searching for an elusive articling position.
I feel that I have succeeded in my law school endeavors. Because of this, I began writing a book about 6 months ago in an effort both as an exercise of personal therapy, but also in the hopes that I can help those who follow in my footsteps to get the very most out of law school. The book will be published in a few months.
I thought that starting a blog might be a good extension of the publication of the book. You might think that writing a book about becoming a lawyer as a 3rd year law student is rather bold - what gives me the authority? Well, in my mind, I have overcome pretty substantial odds in getting accepted into law school, I have succeeded in my classes and in other opportunities that have come up in law school, and I have succeeded in obtaining numerous offers from a variety of law firms. All this while supporting a family of 5. As well, my background before law school was in editing, writing and publishing, and in electronic publishing and programming. It seemed a logical extension of my talents and abilities to write a book. I also have a nice healthy student loan to pay off. Selling a valuable resource to future potential lawyers helps me and helps you. It's win-win, and that's the way that I like to play.
There really is nothing of value out there for Canadian law students when it comes to getting accepted into law school, succeeding in law school, and ultimately going beyond law school as a lawyer. I hope to fill that void in some small way.
I also thought that it would be fun to use this blog as a personal diary, and potential resource, recording my voyage as a graduate, articling student, and ultimately associate. I hope to keep this blog up to date and to provide as much information as I can along the way. A sort of Clark & Lewis expedition in hopes of clearing the way for those who decide to pursue the legal path.
The legal frontier awaits you. I hope you enjoy the ride as much as I have so far.
Adam Letourneau
www.canadianlawschool.ca
