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Maddie
Student
Bellingham, Washington
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What kind of personality traits are needed to be a lawyer?
I have heard it is tough to be a lawyer, so i would like to know what it takes as a person to be a lawyer. #law #lawyer
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3 answers
Stephanie Antonopoulos
4
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Boston, Massachusetts
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Stephanie’s Answer
There are several skill sets useful in a legal career. Some of those include the following: (1) being analytical, (2) being articulate; (3) having good verbal and writing skills; (4) paying attention to details, (5) having good research skills, etc... It is not one characteristic, but really a combination of many. It also depends on what direction in the law that you wish to take. For example, if you want to become a litigator, confidence, the ability to argue both sides of the story, and strong debate skills will come in handy. Additionally, strong writing skills will help you draft effective pleadings.
Richard A.
physician
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Richard’s Answer
My wife is an attorney. I would say you have to have a degree of patience. Clients can be frustrating at times. She says they go on a great deal about the problems because that is why they come to you. They also are often slow in getting the documents you need to do your job. Having some empathy will help you assist them with their problems.
Jenna Zebrowski, JD, MBA
Bilingual JD/MBA with compliance and regulatory experience and real estate (leasing and franchise) expertise
135
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Dallas, Texas
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Jenna’s Answer
There's a lot of good qualities for a lot of different types of lawyers, but to generalize: you have to be able to communicate well, in writing and verbally, you have to be detail-oriented but also not lose sight of the big picture, you have to read a LOT, and it helps to be able to argue any side of an issue, using facts and logic- you are being an advocate, no matter what you do. Being risk adverse and enjoying wading through fine print also help.
Ditto on all of the above. I would add that you need to be a critical thinker and enjoy analyzing a particular issue or set of facts. Developing people skills is also important in progressing your career.
Joanne Keating