[REWIND] How To Transition from Military Service to Civilian Law Practice feat. Vernon Thomas

Vernon Thomas, a military attorney in the United States Army Reserves and a city prosecutor in New Orleans, shares his unique journey from aspiring English teacher to successful lawyer. In this episode, he reflects on the influence of his father, a prominent attorney, and discusses the importance of analytical skills in legal practice, as well as his unconventional approach to studying for the bar exam. Vernon also emphasizes the value of mentorship and the diverse opportunities that a law degree can provide.

Lawyer Side Hustles

In this episode, the discussion highlights the growing trend of lawyers engaging in side hustles alongside their primary legal practices. Vernon exemplifies this by balancing his role as a municipal prosecutor with a private criminal defense practice. This dual approach not only allows him to diversify his income but also enriches his legal experience. By managing both responsibilities, he gains insights from different areas of law, which ultimately enhances his effectiveness as an attorney.

“The municipal prosecution job... is part-time... and then because I'm part-time, I'm allowed to have my private criminal defense practice,” shares Vernon Thomas in Episode 167 of You Are a Lawyer.

Thomas's involvement in the Cutting Edge Music Conference illustrates how lawyers can leverage their expertise in niche markets, such as entertainment law, to create additional opportunities. This conference serves as a platform for legal professionals to connect with others in the entertainment industry, providing valuable insights into the complexities of intellectual property and agency relationships. By engaging in such side ventures, lawyers can not only expand their professional networks but also explore their passions outside of traditional legal work. This multifaceted approach to a legal career can lead to greater job satisfaction and a more robust understanding of the law's application in various contexts.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Insights into the unique experiences of a military attorney and the differences between military and civilian law practices
• The importance of analytical skills in law and how they can be applied in various legal contexts
• The significance of mentorship and learning from family legacies in the legal profession

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The impact of family background on career choices and the advantages of having a legal mentor
• The role of the Cutting Edge Music Conference in educating about entertainment law and the evolving landscape of digital content
• Advice for prospective law students, emphasizing that it's never too late to pursue a legal education and the importance of hard work and dedication

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

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