For the first time in history, attorneys from as many as five generations can be found practicing law together. From veteran trial lawyers in their 70s and up to Gen Z associates just starting out, the generational diversity in today’s legal workforce is unprecedented. In this episode, Professor Marian Braccia of Temple University Beasley School of Law discusses how generational identity influences legal practice, challenges stereotypes about Gen Z lawyers, and offers insights into fostering understanding and mentorship across age groups.

Topics
00:58   Generational span in law offices
04:40   Gen Z stereotypes and realities
05:53   Overview of generations in law
08:35   Defining characteristics by generation
26:37   Gen Z values and “sea change”
29:58   Generational mix in legal workforce
32:02   Authority and leadership styles
36:13   Policies and procedures
39:41   Decision-making preferences
42:55   Communication styles
47:58   Feedback and critique preferences
52:30   Generational tensions and perceptions
58:42   Recognition and rewards
01:01:51   Recommendations for law firms
01:07:20   Signoff questions

Quote
“We are talking about the success of the profession, we are talking about the longevity of the profession, and we want that to be something that doesn’t have to be reinvented every generation. We want to see continuity, and the only way we can do that is for there to be meaningful collaboration between the generations when it’s time to pass the baton.” Marian Braccia

Resources
Marian Grace Braccia (bio)
The Generations War Comes to the Law Firm (article)
Why We Mistake the Wholesomeness of Gen Z for Conservative (article)