Unlike most other firms, Jones Day does not require new associates to go directly into a specific practice group. We recognize that many law students leave school not knowing which practice they want to enter. We also believe that a more well-rounded lawyer is a better lawyer, and that a variety of experience is valuable to a new lawyer. Accordingly, in 1981 Jones Day created the New Lawyers Group, which allows new associates to gain exposure to different practice areas and lawyering styles at the Firm before making a commitment to a specific practice.

All new lawyers joining our domestic offices from law school − and judicial clerks, at their election − become members of the New Lawyers Group for about a year before joining one of our specific practices. During that year we encourage you − but don't require you − to take assignments in a variety of areas. If you already know the area in which you wish to practice, you are welcome to concentrate on that area during your first year (consistent with the overall needs of our clients).

Each U.S. office designates at least one New Lawyers Group coordinator, a partner who coordinates assignments for new lawyers and will assist you in dealing with any issues that may come up during your first months at the Firm. He or she will attempt to match your assignments with your areas of interest. At the same time, you are encouraged to develop your own "clients" within the Firm, to seek out senior lawyers with whom you wish to work in areas that interest you. We strive to provide feedback as soon as you complete each assignment, and we give you a mid-year evaluation during your first year. After about a year, you will "graduate" into one of our practice areas, based on your interests and acceptance by the practice.

We provide extensive training through the New Lawyers program. Each November we bring together all of the new associates Firmwide at the "New Lawyers Academy" for three days of hands-on training exercises and meetings with leaders of the Firm. In addition to helping you understand Jones Day's culture, organization and operation, the Academy gives you the opportunity to meet your peers in the other offices of the Firm. We also arrange for seminars at the Academy − conducted both by outside speakers and by Jones Day lawyers − in legal writing, communications, ethics and loss prevention, pro bono, and a variety of substantive topics from the Firm's various practices. In addition, throughout their first year, new lawyers are often invited to attend training sessions offered by the practice groups in each office, such as sessions on depositions and negotiations.  

Our goal is to do everything we can to make your transition to the practice of law here smooth and successful. You will find, as many others already have, that the New Lawyers Group will help you get the most out of the beginning of your career at Jones Day.