The Law Student's Guide to Thriving At Legal Conferences

You will likely have the chance to attend a legal conference or two during your time in law school. Legal conferences provide a great opportunity to network, build knowledge, find new tools and resources, and experience a new place or city. So whether you’re invited through a professor, faculty, student group/club or other organization, use this time away from the classroom to network with the amazing people in your legal community and learn from the influential people in your specific area of interest.

Here are some ways to best prepare for and conduct yourself when attending a legal event.

Put your best face forward

When it comes to conduct, you should treat a legal conference much like you would treat a networking event at a law firm. Attendees ranging from professionals to academic types will judge your group, journal or school based on your conduct. So, much like a firm-sponsored event, you need to present your best self. Furthermore, just like a firm networking event, it’s important to talk to a range of people throughout the conference to make a lasting impression. View the situation as time to maximize your chances of securing relationships for your group (or yourself).

Make your school or group known, subtly

Throughout the conference, you’ll want to make it clear who you’re representing — whether it be your school or a group — and artfully note that you’re available as a resource should they have any questions. That said, you don’t need to (and shouldn’t) spend the entire time trying to sell yourself. Remember, this is primarily an opportunity to learn and grow. 

Network, appropriately

Don’t be afraid to be forward with attendees or speakers whom you find particularly enticing. It’s expected, and even seen as flattering, for student representatives to pull select people aside to express their group’s interest in working together. You shouldn’t be overly pushy. Instead, simply state why you’re interested, what makes you a good fit and how to get in touch should they decide to reach out to you. With all networking, remember to be cognizant of the recipient’s time.

Pack some suitcase essentials

If you’re heading out of the city or the state, you’ll need to pack a small suitcase filled with your essentials. Many legal conferences will have dress codes to adhere to. If one isn’t noted, you’ll want to pack a range of formal and business casual outfits so that you’re dressed appropriately and comfortably to feel confident.  

Here’s a list of items you may want to consider packing:

Neutral suits and matching dress shirts/blouses: Formal dress attire would require a full suit. If you’re unsure of the dress code, pack a suit. You can always opt for no blazer if the dress code leans more casual. You can also utilize your blazer with your more business casual outfits as well.

Business casual outfits: Many conferences will specify business casual for the evening social events. If you’re low on space, try to match business casual shirts/tops to your more formal suit(s).

Comfortable dress shoes: Comfortable dress shoes are a must. This means breaking in your shoes prior to the conference. It may surprise you how much walking and standing you do throughout the event, and the last thing you’ll want are sore feet and blisters.

Comfortable walking shoes: Depending on the conference set up and where you’ll be staying, you may need to factor in commuting from your hotel to the event site. If you’re not able to, or don’t plan to, take transportation, bring a pair of sneakers or flats that you can make the trek in.

Formal event outfit: Often conferences end with a ‘formal’ event where suits, dresses and other formal attire are acceptable. 

Spare outfit: If space allows, bring a backup shirt or blouse. It’s never fun to realize that you’ve spilled coffee or food on one of your only tops.  

A presentable purse or briefcase: Conferences come with a lot of handouts. Make sure you have something professional to carry these as well as other day-of essentials.  

Don’t forget the day-bag essentials

Whether you’re attending a legal conference on campus or three states over, you’ll want to bring a well-stocked bag to make it comfortably through the day. You know yourself best, but here’s a quick list of some useful items to consider:

• Notebook and pen 
• Battery charger for your phone
• Umbrella 
• Snacks 
• Water bottle
• Business cards  
• Stain remover pen 
• Medicine
• Wallet with government photo ID and your student ID for registration

Best of luck as you gear up for your next conference event!