Introduction to the career

A juvenile justice attorney is responsible for representing minors who have been accused of a crime or delinquent act. They work in the juvenile justice system which is designed to rehabilitate minors rather than punish them. These attorneys work to ensure that the rights of the minors are protected at all times.

Career Values, Traits, Skills

To be a successful juvenile justice attorney, you must have certain skills, traits, and values. Firstly, you need to have excellent communication skills. You should be able to communicate effectively with your clients, judges, and other stakeholders. Secondly, you should have strong research skills. You need to be able to research laws, case laws, and other legal matters related to your cases. Thirdly, you should be passionate about helping minors. You need to be able to relate to them and support them throughout the legal process. Lastly, you should have strong problem-solving skills. Juvenile justice cases can be complex, and you need to be able to find the best possible solutions for your clients.

Career Path

To become a juvenile justice attorney, you need to complete a Bachelor’s degree followed by a Juris Doctorate (JD) degree from an accredited law school. After graduating, you must pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice. Once you become a licensed attorney, you can start your career in Juvenile justice by working as an associate at a law firm, a public defender’s office, or a private practice. As you gain experience, you can move up the ranks to become a partner at a law firm or even start your own practice.

Salary range

The salary range for a juvenile justice attorney varies depending on the location, years of experience, and the type of employer. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for lawyers, in general, was $126,930, as of May 2020. However, the salaries of juvenile justice attorneys may differ as it depends on the particular area of specialization.

Tips for Success

To succeed as a juvenile justice attorney, you should focus on building a strong reputation by delivering results and maintaining professionalism. Here are some tips for success:

-Attend networking events and conferences to build professional relationships and meet potential clients.
-Stay up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations related to juvenile justice.
-Develop strong relationships with judges and other stakeholders in the juvenile justice system.
-Invest in technology and tools to help you streamline your work process.
-Always keep your clients’ best interests in mind.

References

If you are interested in becoming a juvenile justice attorney, it’s essential to gather information from credible sources. Here are some references that will help guide you through your career-building journey:

-The American Bar Association-Section of Juvenile Justice
-The National Juvenile Defender Center
-The National Association for Council for Children