From Litigation to Transactions: How Junior Associates Can Build Versatile Legal Skills

In an evolving legal landscape, junior associates are increasingly expected to demonstrate versatility, moving fluidly between litigation and transactional work. While many lawyers gravitate toward one path early in their careers, building expertise in both areas can enhance long-term career prospects and make associates indispensable to their firms. Here's how junior attorneys can strategically develop versatile legal skills.

Understand the Core Differences

Litigation and transactional work demand distinct skills, knowledge, and mindsets. Litigation emphasizes advocacy, legal research, and persuasive writing, while transactional practice requires contract drafting, negotiation, and business acumen. Recognizing these differences is the first step toward bridging the gap.

A 2024 study by Thomson Reuters revealed that firms increasingly value associates with cross-functional expertise, citing client demand for lawyers who understand both litigation risks and transactional structures.

Leverage Cross-Practice Assignments

Many firms encourage associates to gain experience in multiple practice areas during their early years. Seek opportunities to assist on matters outside your usual workload. For example, a litigation associate might volunteer to review contractual provisions in mergers or acquisitions cases.

Proactively communicate with partners and mentors about your interest in diversifying your experience. Even small assignments can build foundational knowledge and open doors to larger projects.

Focus on Transferable Skills

Certain skills, such as attention to detail, strategic thinking, and client communication, are valuable in both litigation and transactions. Junior associates can hone these skills through training programs, mock deal exercises, or even pro bono work.

Drafting a clear and concise brief for a court case improves written communication, which is equally critical when drafting contracts or negotiating deals.

Build Relationships Across Departments

Networking within your firm is essential to transitioning between practice areas. Develop relationships with senior attorneys in transactional teams if you’re primarily in litigation, and vice versa.

Attend firmwide events, join cross-departmental committees, or request a mentor from a different practice area to deepen your understanding of their work.

Pursue Targeted Education

Formal education can provide the technical expertise needed to pivot between litigation and transactions. Consider enrolling in CLEs or certification programs focusing on areas like corporate finance or litigation strategy.

Organizations like the ABA and Practising Law Institute (PLI) offer comprehensive courses on topics relevant to both litigation and transactional work.

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Building versatile legal skills requires intentional effort, but the payoff is significant. Junior associates who embrace opportunities to work across practice areas are better positioned to adapt to market demands, enhance their professional growth, and meet the diverse needs of clients. Start small, seek mentorship, and remain open to new challenges—your career will thank you.