Introduction
A lawyer is a professional who practices law, as an advocate, barrister, attorney, counselor, solicitor, notary, or civil law notary. Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to clients in courtrooms, boardrooms and beyond.
Career values, traits and skills
To be successful as a lawyer, you need to have strong communication skills, analytical skills, attention to detail, interpersonal skills, creativity, good judgement, problem-solving skills, and an ability to work under pressure. Lawyers should also have high ethical and moral standards and a strong desire to serve others.
Career path
To become a lawyer, you need to earn a law degree and pass a bar exam. After graduation from law school, most lawyers start as associates at law firms or government agencies, where they work on legal cases and gain experience. Some lawyers become partners at law firms, while others become in-house counsel for corporations or work in public interest law organizations.
Salary range
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for lawyers in the United States was $126,930 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary greatly depending on the type of law you practice and your location.
Tips for success
To be successful as a lawyer, you should focus on building relationships with clients, developing a strong reputation, gaining experience in a variety of legal areas, and staying up-to-date on changes in the law. It’s also important to have a good work-life balance and to take care of your mental health.
References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics – Lawyers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/lawyers.htm
- American Bar Association – Career Center: https://www.americanbar.org/careercenter/
- Law School Admission Council – Career Paths: https://www.lsac.org/discover-law/career-paths
