This candid, no-nonsense guide to excelling as a commercial lawyer offers a frank and forthright look at the modern solicitors' profession. The book advises those who seek to make a career out of commercial lawyering, and it goes far beyond the common-sense guidance found in other current texts. This is an honest and up-to-the-minute look at how to succeed early on in the profession, written by a UK lawyer who offers a unique combination of experience as a practitioner, trainer, and law firm voyeur. 21st-Century Solicitor takes into account the vast changes that the profession has undergone during the past few years. No longer is success in the law dependent on technical aptitude alone. While good solicitors undoubtedly have to be able to understand and apply the law, to achieve success they must also master a range of what used to be called 'soft skills.' Taking this into account, the book explores every facet of what makes a modern, successful solicitor, concentrating in particular on personal branding and recognizing the importance of self-awareness when working in a law firm. Combining humor with pragmatism, it surfs lightly through theory, concentrating on practical and easily accessible hints and tips for young solicitors wanting to make a positive lasting impression from day one.