It’s been nearly a year since our new associates, Victoria Biggerstaff and Jonathan McGehee, started with the firm and we sat down with them to learn more about:

• Their overall experience as an early career law professional
• Advice for a new associate before they start
• Memorable moments from their first year

Can you describe your overall experience during your first year practicing law?
Overall, the first year practicing law has been eye opening. It is a weird feeling because while you have the qualifications to be a lawyer you know very little about actually practicing law so you’re still constantly learning. It is very exciting to be out of school and practicing but also a little scary because there is a lot of confusion when you first start out.

What were some of the most significant challenges you faced during your first year, and how did you overcome them?
The most significant challenge has been the learning curve that comes with practicing law. During the first year you often feel lost and confused about the tasks you are assigned. Asking for help is how I have started to overcome the learning curve. I am fortunate to be surrounded by excellent lawyers who are all extremely helpful and more than willing to give examples or explain a task in more detail.

In what ways did your legal education prepare you for the practical aspects of practicing law, and where did you find gaps in your preparation?
My legal education prepared me for legal research and writing and comprehension of my findings through legal research. A big gap in legal education is drafting documents. Knowing what components go into a document is something I have learned through my first year of practice.

Share a funny or memorable moment from your first year that still makes you laugh today.
My first day at the office I was standing in the elevator trying to go to a different floor and I informed a partner that the elevator was broken. Turns out you just had to scan your badge to access the floor.

Victoria Biggerstaff joined Lane & Waterman in 2023. Her practice focuses on litigation and transactional law. She received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Business Management and Psychology with a minor in Political Science from Augustana College in 2019 and her Juris Doctorate (J.D.), with high honors, from Drake University Law School in 2023