Happy Hours

Mass Dissent December 2009
by Koo Yu

A lawyer suggested that I check it out.  I should have known then, especially considering that he had a penchant for wearing three-piece suits.  But what did I know?  I had just recently begun my practice with another lawyer and was eager to meet other practitioners.  Some seven hours later, I found myself on a midnight getaway from disco music in a college friend’s compact sedan.  But still I returned for Happy Hour the following month.  That time, I ended up eating dumplings and fried rice somewhere in Chinatown at 3 a.m. with two other lawyers.

As a networking opportunity, Happy Hour offers more than just fun and games.  As a new lawyer who began a small practice, I met many lawyers, new and experienced, who work on their own or in a small firm.  I met experienced attorneys who encouraged me to continue on the path I have chosen.  There is certain camaraderie among the new lawyers, which is comforting.  During the most difficult times, knowing those lawyers helps me to continue.  And when facing an unfamiliar area of law, I can turn to others within the Guild for help, and the help is very congenial.

But let’s get serious; it is, after all, still called Happy Hour. The benefits continue outside of the Happy Hour setting and even the profession.  I often catch lunch or an after work drink with people I met through the Guild’s Happy Hour.  These meetings are a good way to leave behind the confines of my office and the responsibilities and stresses that come with it.

Of course, the Guild is still a legal organization.  Any time I meet Guild members, whether during Happy Hour or on our own time, we inevitably talk shop.  Sometimes we make other helpful professional connections through the Guild.  It is all in good fun and spirit.  Now, if only I can find a lawyer to make sure that no photos taken from these extended Happy Hours ever see the light of the day…

Ku Yoo is a partner at Chang & Yoo LLP, in Boston.  In light of his request, we used our discretion in the Happy Hour photos accompanying this article.