What is an Attorney/Lawyer

The terms attorney and lawyer are used interchangeably. A lawyer will advise and represent clients in civil or criminal legal proceedings or other legal matters. They act as both advocates and advisors for one party in a criminal or civil proceeding. They may present evidence and argue in support of their client for settlements outside of court, such as through plea bargaining or arbitration, or during court hearings, trials, or other appearances. They can also advise clients about their legal rights, obligations, and options, and suggest courses of action.

Lawyers may have different titles and duties, depending where they work. Those who represent clients accused of a crime are typically known as defense attorneys. Attorneys at any level of government may have a variety of titles, including prosecutor or public defender. Prosecutors typically pursue the government’s charges against an individual or organization accused of violating the law. Public defenders represent criminal defendants who cannot afford to hire a private attorney.

Attorneys may specialize in a specific area of law, and may work as victim’s rights lawyers; civil legal aid (for civil cases); family lawyers for custody, divorce, and other family-related legal issues; or general practice lawyers who do not have a specialty. Other attorney-related jobs include paralegals, investigators, and judges, amongst many others.

Learn about the County Prosecutor's Office, Public Defender, and Department of Law

Basic Duties

• Advise and represent clients in criminal or civil proceedings and in other legal matters.
• Communicate with clients, colleagues, judges, and others involved in a case.
• Conduct research and analysis of legal issues.
• Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations.
• Present facts and findings relevant to a case on behalf of their clients.
• Prepare and file legal documents, such as lawsuits, contracts, and wills.

Hiring Roadmap

Becoming a lawyer usually takes 7 years of full-time study after high school: 4 years of undergraduate study, followed by 3 years of law school, then take and pass the bar exam to become a licensed attorney.

Some legal fields may have additional requirements. For example, patent lawyers typically need a degree, specific credits, or a background in science or engineering and must pass an exam administered by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (commonly known as the patent bar exam). Tax lawyers may choose to earn a Master of Laws (LL.M) degree in tax after completing a J.D. program

Prior felony convictions, academic misconduct, and a history of substance abuse are examples of factors that may disqualify an applicant from being admitted to the bar.

Lawyers who want to practice in more than one state usually must meet licensing requirements for each state in which they wish to work. Most states have reciprocity agreements that streamline the process for lawyers licensed in one state to get licensed in another state.

Typical Entry-Level Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (most law schools do not require a specific bachelor's degree but common undergraduate fields of study include political science, history, and pre-law).
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Pass a character and fitness evaluation to sit for the written bar exam.
• Pass the bar exam.

Training

Most states require lawyers to participate in continuing legal education to maintain licensure.

Advancement

Newly hired attorneys usually start as associates and work on teams with more experienced lawyers. Some lawyers advance to become partners, which means that they are partial owners of the firm.

Some experienced lawyers become judges. Most judges must be appointed or elected to their positions, a procedure that often requires political support.

Average Pay & Benefits

National median average per US Bureau of Labor Statistics: $151,160 per year or $72.67 per hour.
*Note that pay will differ depending on the type of law practiced and the agency/department/office the attorney works for, and city they work in.

Benefits will vary by department but often include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holiday pay, overtime pay, and retirement/pension plan.

Work Environment

Typically work in an office setting. May also travel to meet with current or prospective clients at various locations, such as homes or prisons, and to appear in court.

Where Can You Work

Typically work for private law firms or in legal departments for various organizations, including government agencies, private companies, non-profits, and other similar organizations.