From Burnout to Balance: A Big Law Revolution

The idea that work can be both meaningful and balanced is often dismissed as unrealistic in high-pressure professions such as Big Law. Yet, this belief forms the center of Brad DeJean’s approach to practicing law.

During our recent podcast, Breaking Big Law’s Burnout Culture: A Renewable Energy Firm’s Revolutionary Approach, Brad shared how he has built a legal firm that challenges traditional legal sector norms. By focusing on renewable energy, work-life balance, and a kinder approach to leadership, Brad offers a model for those looking to align their careers with their values.

A Mission to Build a Cleaner Future

At the heart of Brad’s firm is a focus on renewable energy and helping companies transition from fossil fuels to renewables. They exclusively take on projects that drive genuine environmental progress, avoiding superficial greenwashing efforts.

Brad shared how his work in renewable energy stems from a desire to ensure his children inherit a world with cleaner air, healthier ecosystems, and sustainable opportunities. His firm’s efforts support businesses in making meaningful energy transitions and inspire employees and clients to prioritize sustainability and balance in their lives.

Time is Life’s Most Precious Commodity

One of the most striking parts of our conversation was Brad’s perspective on time. Brad emphasized how many lawyers spend their lives working without pause, often missing out on a lot of what life has to offer.

Brad’s firm is built on the conviction that time, not money, is the most valuable resource. His employees, many of whom could earn more at larger firms, are drawn to the opportunity to reclaim their time while still making an impact.

Practical Ways Brad’s Firm Protects Time:

• Remote-first setup: Employees save hours every week by eliminating commutes and reducing their carbon footprints.
• Flexible schedules: Team members have the freedom to design their workdays around their peak productivity and family commitments.
• Efficient workflows: The firm actively avoids unnecessary meetings and tasks, focusing only on high-impact work.

One of Brad’s greatest measures of success is his ability to spend more time with his wife and children and encourage his team to do the same.

A Kinder Way to Practice Law

I was particularly struck by Brad’s emphasis on creating a workplace culture prioritizing kindness and ethics. His philosophy major background has shaped his leadership style, which encourages introspection and alignment between personal values and professional goals.

Brad shared that while their work is serious, the journey can still be fulfilling and enjoyable.

This ethos is reflected in how the firm operates. Employees are trusted to manage their own schedules, and the firm’s remote setup fosters a culture of independence and respect. Brad explained that trust, rather than constant supervision, leads to better results and higher morale.

Attracting Like-Minded Professionals

Brad’s firm has become a lure for top professionals who want to align their work with their values. Many of his employees are drawn to the opportunity to work on renewable energy projects while enjoying a healthier work-life balance.

A Legacy That Goes Beyond Wins

As we wrapped up our conversation, I reflected on Brad’s commitment to creating work that truly matters. His approach is not just about handling cases. It is about building something that positively impacts the world and supports the people around him. This perspective, grounded in kindness and purpose, is a reminder that success does not have to come at the expense of balance or values.

This idea of legacy, of creating something lasting and meaningful, even in the high-stakes legal sector, is woven through everything Brad does. His firm serves as a model for building a kinder, more balanced career in an industry that often prioritizes profit over people.

Takeaways from Brad’s Journey:

• Align your work with your values for greater personal and professional fulfillment.
• Recognize time as your most valuable resource and protect it.
• Build a workplace culture that fosters trust, independence, and kindness.
• Focus your efforts on projects that contribute to a better world, like renewable energy.

Brad’s story is a reminder that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of balance or purpose. For those of us searching for work that’s truly worth it, his example offers both inspiration and a practical guide. Catch the full conversation with Brad DeJean on my podcast! (link)

Georgi