Level up your legal career - What every lawyer needs to know

How junior lawyers can succeed early in their legal careers: insights from Suzanne Howari.

Early career lawyers face pressure, changing expectations and growing AI disruption, but practical workplace skills can make the difference. Corporate and commercial lawyer Suzanne Howari outlines how junior lawyers can build strong, sustainable careers from day one.

Drawing on her experience entering the profession without a peer cohort, Suzanne explains that academic results alone are not enough. Success depends on being responsive, taking ownership and driving matters forward while understanding the commercial context. She stresses that clear communication, managing expectations and building strong working relationships are what make junior lawyers reliable and in demand within a team.

Suzanne also points to the impact of AI on legal practice, with routine tasks increasingly automated and greater value placed on critical thinking and efficiency. At the same time, she highlights the importance of protecting wellbeing in high pressure environments. By building strong habits early, from time management to professional identity, junior lawyers can set themselves up for long term career growth in a changing legal industry.

If this topic interests you, you can learn more and receive a CPD point in Professional Skills here