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What are the biggest challenges of being a lawyer?

I want to pursue law to become a defense attorney so getting insight of how it really is from someone who practices it would be amazing! #law #criminal-justice #attorney

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DENNIS’s Answer

Hi Nakaia: Before I begin I need to tell you that I started in Criminal Defense in New York which is a different world from Youngstown. (I went to Dayton Law which is a great place for you to look into as you get closer!) Criminal Defense work is a tough job. Clients are always in tough spots. Explaining the case to them in a real fashion so they understand their odds is not often pleasant. Everyone swears they are innocent despite evidence that tells a different story. They get very emotional when faced with facts. The real pressure for you when you get someone you feel was not given a fair shake or who did not do it then the pressure is on you to fight to get them off. Their live is in your hands. It's a lot of pressure. Often the DA will offer a deal. Advising a client what to do in those circumstances is tricky. Client takes it he/she goes to jail but for less time. Refuse and the client is looking at a longer jail time. Not a easy thing to face. These are just a few of the issues you face on a daily basis. Most crimes are not "white collar" crimes. ( where business people cheat or steal) Most crimes are nasty , heart wrenching events. It takes a tough constitution to be able to do this day to day. Nakaia, I wish you all the luck in the world! From your question I can tell you will make a great lawyer. Keep up your studies, look into Dayton Law - excellent place. Always remember, be yourself and never let any case take too much from your heart!
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Kim’s Answer

Hi Nakaia!

I'm not an attorney, but, did some contract work for a Criminal Defense/Civil Rights attorney. Dennis' comments pretty much nailed it. I want to recommend that you start out working in prosecutions (District Attorney's office) for a couple of years. Why? So you can learn the in's and out's of how they operate! A lot of criminal defense attorneys start out that way.

Making a "deal" on behalf of the client sometimes has further consequences, esp. if the client is not a US citizen, or, is looking to bring a Civil Rights case against the arresting officer. It's important that you understand these consequences.

Wishing you the best!
Kim
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Sharool’s Answer

The Long Hours.
Stress.
New Technologies.
An Increasingly Competitive Job Market.
Client's Reluctance to Spend Money on Legal Services.
Finding clients
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