Ji Jun of City of Philadelphia Law Department.

Ji Jun, Philadelphia Law Department

Ji Jun works to make sure young attorneys understand this very intricate and complicated area of law, the Child Welfare Unit. She also ensures that younger attorneys are developing professionally. She often volunteers with the PBA Minority and Women Lawyers' Business Development Forum.

Jun has been a pioneer and advocate for diversity in the city's law department for many years. She is also a wonderful mentor. She readily assigns interesting work to young attorneys that is challenging, a way to ensure these young professionals remain interested in this area of law. 

Why is mentorship important in the legal profession?

The legal profession can be a difficult one to navigate. Without mentors to provide insight, it can be even more overwhelming and difficult. As a first-generation college and law school graduate with no professionals in my close network, I knew nothing about the various practice areas and did not have connections to internships or opportunities. It took me a long time to build confidence and to find my voice. Sometimes hard work is just not enough. A mentor can help fill in the gaps that many attorneys, especially those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, experience in this profession.

Who mentored you as you built your career?

When I started my career, I did not know anything about mentorships. While many people have given me valuable advice and guidance over the years, I did not have any formal mentors. However, I did have many great peer mentors who really helped me and continue to do so today. Peer mentors can be your peers in the same or even different industries who may be experiencing similar situations or issues and with whom you can have a safe space to share insight, feedback and goals. Peer mentors don't get much recognition but they can be an incredible resource for professional development.

What's one piece of advice you would give to a young lawyer in today's rapidly changing profession?

Ask for help. Ask questions. Now is the time to do it. I often see younger lawyers hesitant to ask questions. I imagine it is because they are afraid to show any weakness or they want to look extra capable. They should know that, at this stage, they are not expected to be an expert and if they do not ask for help, they are putting themselves at a disadvantage.