Do You Miss Practicing Law?

Ask me after this show tonight ...... Just kidding. This is what I am asked often, especially by other lawyers or
comedians who are thinking about leaving their careers. I would be lying if I said I don't miss parts of practicing law, especially after a horrible show or a bad week of rejections. In times like those, I often ask myself "What was I thinking, leaving the comfort of law?"

I always say, there were parts of the law I loved, like trials, arguing and drafting motions and even depositions. I miss trials, but those were few and far between, especially in my line of practice. But I was also burned out. I did what I wanted with the law, trying over 20 jury trials, attending and taking over 500 depositions, arguing and defending thousands of motions, and achieving the honor of being "40 under 40" for Illinois lawyers. I do not miss the researching of case law and client development efforts. Or being yelled at my opposing counsel or a judge.

Just like with comedy, there are parts I don't love, like waiting for responses from clubs when I give them my "avails" or having pitches rejected, or being overlooked for spots. Regardless of where I am in my career now, I never regret leaving the practice to pursue what I enjoy. If anything, I wish I decided earlier to start comedy full time. I look forward to seeing you all at my new show Stand UP then Sit Down at the Lincoln Lodge April 7th!

Picture by Ashley Nicole ANF Chicago

#careerchange #formerlawyer #standup