Big Law vs. Small Firm: The Real Value of Early Legal Experience

Where Legal Experience Really Begins

When it comes to building legal expertise, nothing compares to real, hands-on experience. At Ingrum Law Firm in Gallatin, TN, attorney Jay Ingrum credits his early growth to one major advantage: small firm legal experience.

The Power of Learning by Doing

At a smaller firm like Phillips & Ingrum, Jay was able to dive deep into complex cases from the very start — including working on a first-degree murder case just weeks into his career.

“You don’t get that kind of opportunity at a large firm,” he says.

This level of immersion gave him a well-rounded legal foundation that simply isn’t possible in more specialized roles at large firms.

The Limits of Big Firm Structure

In many large firms, junior attorneys are confined to narrowly defined roles. From clerks to junior partners, each person touches only a fragment of a case. While this model builds specialists, it doesn’t offer the wide-ranging, real-world experience that smaller firms do.

Depth and Breadth: A Small Firm Advantage

Small firm legal experience allows attorneys to see every stage of a case — from initial consultation to courtroom resolution. This gives them both the depth and breadth of knowledge that clients value most.

Over time, Jay took the lead on complex cases, even reversing roles with his father — from second chair on a murder trial to first.

Opportunity + Mentorship = Real Growth

Jay’s story is a testament to the power of both mentorship and opportunity. His early experiences weren’t just lessons — they were career-defining moments.

“It’s not just about where you work — it’s about the chances you’re given to grow.”

Choosing the Right Attorney for Your Case

If you're hiring a lawyer, don't just ask how long they’ve been practicing — ask what kind of experience they've had.

At Ingrum Law Firm, our foundation is built on small firm legal experience, where real learning begins on day one.