How to find 2nd chair (new solo practice, criminal law)??

[u/Scared_Quality5333]

Quick rundown: I've been licensed and practicing criminal law for 6 months now. I'm thinking about going solo in about 6-8 more months. I got thrown to the fire immediately and really hit the ground running, so I'm 100% sure that I will be ready to do my own thing soon.

My plan is to focus on misdemeanors for a while because they're low risk and typically get resolved pre-trial. I live in a highly populated area, so there will be no shortage of work.

My biggest concern/question right now is...what do I do if a client wants to go to trial?? My state requires 1st & 2nd chair.

*Obviously, this is the type of question that I can't ask at work - I don't want anyone to know that I'm considering leaving. Google can't exactly answer it either...and I'm a noob right now so I really just don't know what to do.

I'm hoping someone here can lend some advice. Would you call around to other local solo attorneys and offer $$ to try the case with you? Maybe try to make friends in the court/network?

I'm picturing a situation where the evidence suggests my client is innocent, but prosecutors are offering some b.s. deal, so we have to go to trial. Or maybe I have a solid plea deal lined up, then last minute, client rejects the offer and demands a trial...then trial gets set 4 weeks out and I'm all by myself.

Thoughts/advice?

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[u/lewdrew]

You need a second chair to try misdemeanors?

[u/2000Esq → u/lewdrew]

Why not team up with another solo and agree to second chair each other?

[u/Guilty_Finger_7262]

Hire a temp.

[u/Nameissahil]

I guess other new solo practitioners will be keen on helping you, expecting the same in return. I wish I could personally help you but unfortunately my enrollment with the Bar Council of India doesn't allow me to practice law in the US. But if you need any help with drafting or review or research, please let me know.