From qualifying as a solicitor and taking on my own clients and caseload it is clear to me that to become a good solicitor, it isn’t just about knowing the law in the area you practice inside out – you also need a solid legal foundation. However, what truly sets top solicitors apart are the qualities that help them navigate the unpredictable world of legal practice. I have found there are three qualities every solicitor should have which I have found should be top of anyone’s list.
1. Creativity – Thinking Outside the Legal Box
The law may be built on precedent, but that doesn’t mean solicitors should be stuck and confined to that. The best legal professionals know that creativity is key to problem-solving. Whether it’s crafting a unique argument, finding a loophole that benefits a client, or drafting deeds or contracts – creative thinking allows solicitors to take it to the next level.
Great solicitors don’t just memorise laws – they use them in innovative ways to serve their clients better.
2. Flexibility – Adapting to Any Legal Challenge
The legal world is dynamic, and no two cases are ever the same. A great solicitor must be flexible enough to adapt to new information, changing client needs, and unexpected developments in a case. Whether it’s a sudden change in legislation, an uncooperative witness, or an opponent pulling a last-minute legal maneuver, flexibility allows solicitors to stay ahead.
Being adaptable also means being open to new legal technologies, different practice areas, and alternative dispute resolution methods. The legal profession has changed and is changing – take the use of AI in legal practice and how it is being used to reduce the administration required of solicitors so they can practice law. Things are changing – in three years I wonder how much will have changed?
3. Resilience – Bouncing Back from Setbacks
Legal practice isn’t for the faint of heart. Whether you’re dealing with difficult clients, losing a case you fought hard for, or just managing the daily pressure of the job, resilience is essential. The best solicitors don’t dwell on failures; they learn from them and move forward.
Resilience also means staying motivated in the face of long hours and demanding workloads. A strong solicitor knows how to manage stress, maintain a work-life balance, and keep pushing forward, no matter what challenges come their way.
Becoming a Better Solicitor
In my opinion, if you want to thrive in the legal profession, start honing these three qualities today. Creativity will make you a sharper problem-solver, flexibility will keep you ahead of the curve, and resilience will ensure you stay strong in the face of challenges.
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⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |