71. Mind the Gap: Generations in Trial Practice, with Professor Marian Braccia

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.

Topics00:58 Generational span in law offices04:40 Gen Z stereotypes and realities05:53 Overview of generations in law08:35 Defining characteristics by generation26:37 Gen Z values and “sea change”29:58 Generational mix in legal workforce32:02 Authority and leadership styles36:13 Policies and procedures39:41 Decision-making preferences42:55 Communication styles47:58 Feedback and critique preferences52:30 Generational tensions and perceptions58:42 Recognition and rewards01:01:51 Recommendations for law firms01:07:20 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 BracciaResourcesMarian Grace Braccia (bio)The Generations War Comes to the Law Firm (article)Why We Mistake the Wholesomeness of Gen Z for Conservative (article)