Product Review

A new job is scary for anyone. A new job as an attorney is scary times two: the challenges are both substantive (as in actually knowing the law), as well as procedural (as in knowing how to act like an attorney). In this professional transition, many, many new attorneys fall by the wayside. This book is a guide to keep the new attorney on track. It includes advice for the new law firm associate by a "biglaw" partner. Written in a first- and second-person tense and filled with no-nonsense guidance from someone actually in the mentorship role in a real-world law firm.

Two titles are available to the new attorney: The Young Lawyer's Jungle Book: A Survival Guide, which started the genre, and now Jagged Rocks of Wisdom: Professional Advice for the New Attorney. These two companion books will make a difference--sometimes THE difference--for the new attorney. This book is written in a style that is direct and informative. While many guidebooks are filled with platitudes and generalities, there is a serious need for genuine professional guidance. That's where these two focused guides step in.

The author is a partner at Stoel Rives LLP, where he practices law in financing transactions, energy projects (including wind energy and hydroelectric facilities), and international business. Born in Oslo, Norway, the author is a graduate of Yale Law School. The author was responsible for training of new associates at Foley & Lardner, LLP, and his mentorships were adapted for a broader audience in this book.