If you’re planning to become a New Lawyer in Georgia, these are the lessons that you need to hear. In a recent episode of the Georgia Legal Talks Podcast, host Michael Coker sat down with personal injury attorney Samantha Ball to talk about what it really takes to become a lawyer—and how to build a career that lasts. From school to courtrooms, the conversation revealed hard-earned insights that every aspiring attorney should know.
Listen to the Podcast: Attorney Michael Coker and Samantha Ball Tips Every New Lawyer in Georgia Needs to Hear
In this episode of the Georgia Legal Talks Podcast, Attorney Michael Coker sits down with Samantha Ball to discuss what it really takes to become a lawyer in Georgia—from choosing your path to gaining trial experience and building client trust.
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The 7 Real Lessons
1. Becoming a Lawyer Takes Time—And That’s Okay
Attorney Samantha Ball made it clear: becoming a lawyer isn’t quick. “You have four years of undergrad, three years of law school, and then you take the bar,” she explained. “You might not even start practicing until six months after graduation.” That means the average path takes at least seven and a half years.
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this upfront: the legal path is long, but it’s meant to be. Every stage builds the foundation for the challenges ahead.
2. Try Everything Before You Choose Your Path
Not sure what kind of law you want to practice? You’re not alone. Samantha didn’t know either—not until she worked at a small firm that handled a wide variety of cases. By trying family law, criminal law, real estate law, and eventually personal injury, she discovered that trial work was her true passion.
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this too: your first job isn’t your final destination. Use those early years to explore different areas. Intern, shadow, and volunteer at law firms that practice across various fields. The best way to discover your niche is through experience.
3. Specialization Is the Future
Gone are the days of the “jack of all trades” lawyer. Samantha explained that in major legal markets like Metro Atlanta, clients are looking for attorneys who focus on one area of law—and who do it well.
“If I need estate planning done, I’m hiring an estate lawyer,” she said. “I’m not doing it myself.” The same goes for criminal defense, contract disputes, or personal injury. Clients want expertise, and it’s hard to stay up-to-date if you’re practicing multiple types of law at once.
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this: pick an area, master it, and build your name around it.
4. Trial Experience Sets You Apart
Samantha’s love for trial work started with a few bench trials and grew as she moved into personal injury law. She shared a story about one memorable trial where the opposing party praised her advocacy in the courthouse bathroom—then stormed out angry after losing the case.
Her point? “A lot of lawyers settle cases without ever going to trial. But you don’t really know what a case is worth until you’ve tried it.”
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this: don’t fear the courtroom. Trial experience builds confidence, credibility, and skill. Even if you settle most cases, being trial-ready gives you an edge.
5. Personal Connection Matters More Than Billboards
Samantha also spoke about the difference between billboard lawyers and the kind of attorney most people actually want. “When you hire me, you get me,” she said. “You’re not passed off to someone else.”
This personal approach makes a big difference to clients—especially in personal injury law, where people are going through one of the hardest times in their lives.
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this: clients don’t just want flashy ads. They want connection, trust, and the sense that their case matters.
6. Your Background Can Be Your Strength
Samantha was the first person in her family to graduate from college. Her grandmother was a self-made businesswoman. That working-class background shaped how she practices law today.
“I understand what it means to struggle,” she said. “I understand medical bills, lost wages, and how hard it is when no one’s helping you.”
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this: your personal story is your strength. Use it to relate to clients, to stay grounded, and to fight harder.
7. You Don’t Have to Be Perfect—Just Keep Going
In her final advice, Samantha made it clear: “If we can do it, anyone can. It’s not easy, but if you want it bad enough, you’ll get there.”
Law school is demanding. The bar exam is tough. Starting your career might be overwhelming. But persistence and effort matter more than perfection.
A new lawyer in Georgia needs to hear this most of all: it’s okay to doubt yourself sometimes. Just don’t give up.
Are You a Law Student Looking for Real-World Experience?
Starting your legal journey isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about staying open to learning, growing, and serving others. Whether you’re just beginning law school or preparing for your first trial, remember that every great lawyer was once a beginner too.
For more insights like these, tune in to the Georgia Legal Talks Podcast, hosted by Attorney Michael Coker. Each episode shares real advice, practical tips, and firsthand stories that help you understand how the law really works in Georgia.
If you’re currently a law student and want an opportunity to be part of our team as an intern, we’d love to hear from you. Gain firsthand experience, work alongside experienced trial attorneys, and see how personal injury law is practiced in Georgia.
📩 Contact us today to learn more about internship opportunities at Coker Accident Lawyers.
