Is it worth switching law practices from real estate law to medical law after practicing the first one for two years?
Been doing real estate law for about 2 years now straight out of law school and honestly feeling pretty torn about my next move. The work is fine and pays decent but I've always been more interested in medical/healthcare law.
I actually took some healthcare law courses during my 3L year and really loved the subject matter. The intersection of medicine, ethics, and legal stuff just clicks with me way more than property transactions. But here I am still grinding away at real estate contracts lol
My current firm is solid and I've built some good relationships but the work doesn't really excite me anymore. Been thinking about making the jump to medical law but not sure if it's smart career wise. Would I basically be starting over?
I've got some savings set aside for emergencies which gives me a bit of flexibility but switching practice areas still feels risky. Anyone made a similar transition or have thoughts on whether 2 years is enough experience to make this kind of move?
Really just looking for some perspective from folks who've been in similar spots. Thanks!
Jobadvisor
It's completely understandable to feel torn after two years, especially when you have a long career ahead. Many lawyers consider switching practice areas, and two years out of law school is actually a pretty good time to do it.
Here's a breakdown of why it might be worth it and what to consider:
Why it's likely worth it:
Passion and Engagement: You clearly have a strong interest in medical/healthcare law. Practicing in an area you're passionate about can lead to greater job satisfaction, better performance, and a more sustainable long-term career. Being "grinding away at real estate contracts" when your heart isn't in it can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.
Long-Term Career: As one Reddit user pointed out, two years is a small fraction of a 30+ year career. If you stay in real estate law just because you've started there, you might regret not pursuing your true interests later on.
Transferable Skills: You won't be "starting over" in the sense of completely abandoning everything you've learned. Law, regardless of the area, builds a core set of skills that are highly transferable:
Legal Research and Analysis: You've honed your ability to research complex legal issues and apply them to specific facts. This is crucial in any field.
Writing and Communication: Drafting contracts, briefs, and communicating with clients are essential in both real estate and medical law.
Problem-Solving: Identifying issues, strategizing solutions, and advising clients are universal legal skills.
Attention to Detail: Real estate law demands meticulous attention to detail in contracts, just as medical law requires precision in regulatory compliance and case analysis.
1 Client Management and Relationship Building: You've learned how to interact with clients, understand their needs, and manage expectations.
Early in Your Career: It's generally easier to switch practice areas earlier in your career. The deeper you go into a specialized field, the more difficult it can be to pivot without taking a significant step back in seniority or compensation. Two years is a good window where firms might be more open to training someone with a solid foundational legal skillset, even if their direct experience isn't perfectly aligned.
Your 3L Courses: The fact that you enjoyed healthcare law courses in law school is a significant indicator that it's a good fit for you. You already have a foundational understanding and genuine interest in the subject matter.
Things to Consider and How to Make the Switch:
Networking: Start connecting with lawyers who practice medical/healthcare law. Informational interviews can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day work, different sub-specialties within medical law (e.g., regulatory, malpractice, compliance, transactional), and potential entry points.
2 Targeted Job Search: Look for firms that have both real estate and medical law practices, or firms that specialize in medical law and might be open to someone with a strong legal foundation and a demonstrated interest in the field. Highlight your relevant coursework from law school.
Demonstrate Your Interest:
CLEs/Conferences: Attend continuing legal education (CLE) seminars or conferences focused on healthcare law to deepen your knowledge and show your commitment.
Publications: If possible, consider writing an article or blog post on a current issue at the intersection of real estate and healthcare (e.g., zoning for medical facilities, healthcare real estate transactions) to bridge your experience.
Volunteer Work: Look for opportunities to volunteer with organizations that deal with healthcare-related legal issues.
Potential "Junior" Status/Salary Adjustment: Be prepared that you might initially take a slight step back in seniority or salary compared to someone with two years of direct medical law experience. However, your strong foundational legal skills should allow you to catch up quickly.
Your Savings: Your emergency savings provide crucial flexibility, reducing the financial pressure during a potential transition period.
3 Explaining the Switch: When interviewing, be ready to articulate clearly why you want to switch. Emphasize your genuine passion for medical law, how your previous experience has equipped you with fundamental legal skills, and your enthusiasm for learning the nuances of the new field.
Internal Opportunities: While you mentioned your current firm is solid, it's worth discreetly exploring if there's any way to transition internally if your firm has a medical law practice group. This might be the smoothest path.
In conclusion, based on your expressed interest and relatively early career stage, switching to medical law seems like a very sensible and potentially rewarding move. Don't let the "sunk cost fallacy" of two years hold you back from pursuing a more fulfilling career. The legal field values adaptable, curious minds, and your transferable skills will be a significant asset in your new endeavors.
Feeling stuck in a toxic job with no HR — how do I get out?
I work as an administrative assistant for a solo realtor and it’s just the two of us, no HR or upper management. Lately, the job has become emotionally draining, and today pushed me to my limit.
He knew I didn’t have my car today (my household is down a vehicle), and I was getting picked up from work. Right before I had to leave, he dropped a letter on my desk and asked me to mail it at the post office down the street.
I gently reminded him I didn’t have transportation and asked if he still needed me to be the one to handle it. He said yes “if I could,” but added that he’d take care of it himself “if it was too much trouble.”
I texted my ride to ask, and they jokingly said they’d do it for $20. I laughed and mentioned the joke to my boss, but also explained my ride didn’t want to as the wanted to go straight to the store after. He got frustrated and escalated to the point of saying, “I can’t believe you’d even consider placing this letter back on my desk.” He implied my job might be at risk and acted like I was being unreasonable.
For more context, I’ve never refused to mail something before when I have my car, I always run errands without complaint. This wasn’t me being difficult; I just didn’t feel it was fair to even ask that of my ride as it’s not their job or responsibility. Plus they already despise my boss for the way he’s treated me previously.
I ended up saying I’d take care of it just to avoid more conflict. I was on the verge of tears and he told me not to cry, then claimed he just didn’t think the situation was right. I left as my ride had arrived. I was balling by the time I got to the car as I felt humiliated, disrespected, and appalled by the way he threatened my job like that. I’m also technically a contract worker and this is the first time I’ve ever been one.
This isn’t the first time I’ve felt disrespected or talked down to, but it was the first time I left work crying. I’ve been applying everywhere I can, but I’ve had no luck so far. The market is tough, and I don’t have much of a support system or savings to fall back on.
How do I get out of this situation? I’m open to changing industries, roles but am somewhat limited as I’m disabled. I just want to feel safe, valued, and respected at work. Any advice on job searching, resume tips, or even side gigs to hold me over would really help.
Jobadvisor
It sounds like you're in an incredibly difficult and distressing situation. It's completely understandable that you're feeling humiliated, disrespected, and appalled. No one should have to experience that kind of treatment at work, and your feelings are valid. You're right, it wasn't fair for him to put you in that position, especially given your transportation situation and the fact that you're always willing to help.
The good news is, you've recognized the toxicity, and that's the first step to getting out. Let's break down some strategies to help you navigate this and find a healthier work environment.
Prioritize Your Well-being
First and foremost, your emotional and mental health are paramount. This job is clearly taking a significant toll on you.
Set Boundaries (Where Possible): While it's tough with a difficult boss, try to mentally detach from his emotional manipulation. Remind yourself that his behavior reflects on him, not on your capabilities or worth.
Lean on Your Support System: Even without a large support system, identify who you do have. Your ride, for example, clearly cares about you. Can you confide in a friend, family member, or even a past colleague about what you're going through? Talking about it can help alleviate some of the emotional burden. If you have access to any mental health resources, even online, consider exploring them.
Job Search Strategies
The job market can be tough, but don't give up. Your current experience, even in a toxic environment, is still valuable.
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter:
Keywords are Key: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
1 Look at job descriptions for roles you're interested in and identify common keywords. Weave these into your resume and cover letter naturally. For an administrative assistant role, think about terms like "scheduling," "calendar management," "communication," "data entry," "organizational skills," "client relations," "Microsoft Office Suite" (or specific programs you use), etc.Quantify Your Achievements: Instead of just saying "managed calendars," say "managed calendars for X number of clients, improving scheduling efficiency by Y%." Even small accomplishments can be quantified.
Focus on Skills, Not Just Duties: Highlight transferable skills like problem-solving, communication, organization, adaptability, and independent work. These are valuable in almost any role or industry.
Address Gaps/Changes (If Applicable): If you're looking to change industries, emphasize how your current administrative skills are transferable to the new field. For example, an administrative assistant has strong organizational and communication skills, which are crucial in many roles.
2
Networking (Even Small Scale):
Informational Interviews: Reach out to people in roles or industries that interest you. A quick 15-20 minute chat can provide insights into their day-to-day, what skills are needed, and sometimes, even lead to job opportunities. LinkedIn is a great tool for this.
Leverage Your Current Contacts: Let friends, family, and even former colleagues know you're looking. You never know who might know of an opening.
Explore Different Industries and Roles:
Remote Work: Given your disability, remote administrative assistant roles, virtual assistant positions, or even customer service roles could offer more flexibility and potentially more supportive environments.
Non-Profit Organizations: Sometimes, non-profits can offer a more values-driven culture, though pay might vary.
Companies with Established HR: As you've learned, having an HR department is crucial for support and conflict resolution. Prioritize companies that clearly have a robust HR structure.
Consider "Admin adjacent" roles: Think about roles like office coordinator, executive assistant, project assistant, or even entry-level roles in a department that aligns with your interests (e.g., marketing assistant if you have an interest in marketing).
Utilize Job Boards Effectively:
Broaden Your Search: Don't just stick to one job board. Use LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, and even niche job boards related to industries you're interested in.
Set Up Alerts: Create job alerts with specific keywords so you're notified when new positions that match your criteria are posted.
Interview Preparation:
Practice Common Questions: Prepare answers for questions like "Tell me about yourself," "Why are you leaving your current role?" (keep it positive, focusing on growth opportunities or seeking a more structured environment, without badmouthing your current boss), and "What are your strengths/weaknesses?"
Highlight Your Value: During interviews, clearly articulate how your skills and experience will benefit the new employer.
Side Gigs and Temporary Solutions
Since you're feeling the financial pressure, exploring side gigs can provide a crucial buffer.
Online Freelance Platforms:
Virtual Assistant Services: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Zirtual connect virtual assistants with clients needing administrative help, scheduling, email management, social media support, etc.
3 This could leverage your existing skills.Transcription/Proofreading: If you have strong attention to detail, these can be good options.
Data Entry: Many companies outsource data entry tasks.
Local Opportunities:
Temp Agencies: Register with local staffing agencies that specialize in administrative or office support roles. They can often place you in temporary positions quickly, which can provide income while you search for a permanent role. Sometimes, temp-to-hire opportunities arise.
Pet Sitting/House Sitting: If you enjoy animals or are comfortable with this, these can be flexible ways to earn extra cash.
Delivery Services: Depending on your disability and local options, services like food delivery (if your ride is willing to help with this in exchange for a cut) could be an option.
Leverage Specific Skills: Do you have any hobbies or special skills you could monetize? Tutoring, crafting, or even offering organizational services to individuals could be possibilities.
Contract Worker Considerations
As a contract worker, your situation can be a bit different regarding employment laws, but you still have rights.
Review Your Contract: Understand the terms of your contract, especially regarding termination clauses and notice periods. This knowledge is important for your exit strategy.
Documentation (for yourself): While there's no HR, it's a good idea to keep a personal log of incidents like the one you described. Date, time, what happened, and how it made you feel. This is primarily for your own peace of mind and, in the unlikely event you needed it, for any legal consultation.
Next Steps and Mindset
Don't Quit Without a Plan (If Possible): While the urge to leave immediately is strong, it's often best to secure another position before resigning, especially given your financial situation.
Continue Applying Vigorously: The job market is tough, but every application is a step closer. Don't get discouraged by rejections; they are part of the process.
Practice Self-Care: This situation is emotionally draining. Make sure you're prioritizing activities that help you de-stress and recharge, even small ones.
Remember Your Worth: This experience does not define you or your abilities. You are a valuable employee who deserves to be treated with respect.
You are strong for enduring this and for actively seeking a way out. Keep pushing forward, and you will find a safe, valued, and respectful work environment.
Do any of these strategies particularly resonate with you, or would you like to dive deeper into any specific area, like resume tips or ideas for remote work?