Attorney Careers

Lawyer and attorney jobs are projected to grow 14% through 2014. These professions often offer clients prestige and high pay, but compensation is earned through stress and long hours that are commonly associated with these positions.  Attorneys generally work extended hours during peak times, while trying cases, or when preparing for large hearings.  Lawyers employed on a salary basis often experience more regulated hours, while private firms have no regulation, and extensive overtime is common.  The average work week is approximately 50 hours or more, but privately employed individuals are given more leeway in creating their schedules.  In addition, extensive travel may be necessary for researching cases, interviewing witnesses, meeting clients, or delivering important documents. 

Competition for such careers is high and expected to increase as professionals continue to graduate from required programs.  Established firms and professional associations often have the highest number of qualified candidates compete for each position.  A lawyer new to the industry will have the best success in small town and rural areas, but upon obtaining extensive on the job training, many professionals choose to become partners or begin their own business.  Professionals who exhibit the flexibility to relocate will have the most occupational prospects.  Although professionals may experience adversity during economic declines, there continues to be a constant need for legal advice and assistance. 

Professionals interested in attorney careers undergo extensive training and pass a licensing examination for the state in which they wish to practice.  Before candidates are able to attempt the bar examination, they must undergo a minimum of seven years of formal education.  Candidates must complete four years of undergraduate training before taking the entrance exams for law school.  Competition for law schools is immense; therefore, entrance is commonly based upon candidate exam scores.  Law school generally consists of three years of formal training, but candidates may choose to pursue extra education.  Those possessing the highest education, in combination with experience, are often considered for general counsel positions, which are the highest positions within a firm or practice.  Graduates entering the workforce commonly begin as associates and gain on the job experience before moving into partnerships, or beginning new practices.  Continuing education is necessary not only to keep up with changing laws and better serve clients, but also to maintain licensure. 

Attorneys are responsible for a large variety of practices.  Candidates entering the field may choose to specialize in criminal or civil law.  Either specialty has a number of additional specializations, including bankruptcy, elder law, depositions, real estate, insurance, civil disputes, or intellectual law.  Elder law is commonly reserved for matters such as estate planning, drafting of wills, Medicaid, disability, and guardianship.  Real estate lawyers handle all aspects of land use, zoning, construction, landlords, and tenants.  Professionals may draft necessary paperwork and handle any necessary negotiations property transactions.  Intellectual law has become increasingly important in recent years.  Any issues surrounding computer programs, contracted designs or artwork, or any copyrighted item is classified as intellectual law. 

No matter the specific venue, attorneys and lawyers are responsible for advising clients, informing them of their rights, and suggesting the best course of action for clients to pursue.  Depending on the area candidates enter, duties include researching and investigating cases, presenting evidence, and arguing in support of clients.  All professionals are licensed to represent clients in court, but some seldom do.  Technology has increased overall associate efficiency, but requires candidates to be knowledgeable of internet law library systems, as well as the use of videoconferencing, electronic filing, and voice recognition systems.  Professionals must be dedicated and knowledgeable if they wish to succeed as an attorney. 

For more information on attorney and lawyer careers, please visit the following sites:

• Attorney Services Etc.
• North Carolina Wesleyan College
• Quick Seek
• Amazing Firms Amazing Practices
• MoreLaw.com

If you are searching for an attorney career, or are looking to hire an attorney for your firm, please visit iHireLegal.  We are a niche based job board focusing only in candidates and positions within the legal field.