Spoiled for choice: After various internships and stops during my legal clerkship, I had many possibilities in mind as I began my career: a large law firm, in-house counsel at a renowned company, management consulting, an executive assistant position at a DAX-listed corporation… And yet, in the end, I decided to start my career at honert, a boutique firm specializing in M&A and tax law—a decision I would make again in a heartbeat.
“A lawyer with personality rather than a specialist in Section 145 of the German Stock Corporation Act (AktG).”
This catchphrase was used during my job interview to explain one of the most important advantages and differences of working at honert compared to a large law firm. Having now been in the profession for several years, I can only confirm that statement. While large law firms often prioritize specialization in a very narrow field, at a boutique firm like honert, the firm’s size alone provides you with extensive insight into handling client matters. After an early “leap into the deep end,” even for those just starting their careers, direct client support—including working independently—is on the agenda after only a short time. A willingness to take on responsibility is an essential prerequisite for living up to the trust that the partners place in their young colleagues here. Working at a boutique firm is also not a “nine-to-five job.” When working on an ongoing project, the workday can sometimes run late. Unlike at some large law firms, however, there is no “face time” requirement here. When the work is done or things are a bit quieter between projects, no one expects you to be at the firm just to show that you’re there.
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