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Stephanie
Student
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Criminal Law
Do you think Criminal law would be a good thing to get into? I'm debating if it's a good choice. If I shouldn't why? But if I should what are the perks?
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Cristin Adam
In-house counsel
3
Answers
Cross Roads, Texas
Updated
Cristin’s Answer
Hi Stephanie. A few things. First, you don't have to know what type of law you want to practice when you start law school, or even when you graduate law school, for that matter (though I suspect you'll know more by that time). The first year, I believe most all law schools require all first year students (1L's) to take the same courses as a basis for all other classes. This is a great thing, as truly those courses are the basis for most all other law and you must have an understanding of those laws to move forward. Typically those classes are Contracts, Property, Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Civil Procedure, Torts, and maybe Legal Research & Writing and/or Trial Advocacy. Constitutional Law is also a required course that year or when you become a 2L. After that, your class choices are up to you.
I personally believe your choice of practice after law school depends on your areas of interest, what you enjoy doing, and what you want to do with your practice (i.e., have a great job and pay the bills and/or make a difference in this world and impact society). Examples only, but if you enjoy going to trial, criminal law may be great. However, if you enjoy writing and hate going to trial, you may want to consider other types of law. I have found that after 25+ years of practice that I still enjoy my job b/c I am doing something that is interesting and challenging. That is critical, IMO, to have a successful career, so think about that first and foremost. And if you want to have a positive impact on society, pick a type of law that will enable you to do that via activities you enjoy.
From a financial perspective, there are a few considerations as well. You will be representing either the government as a prosecutor (also sometimes called a "district attorney" or D.A.) or the criminal defendant who is accused of breaking the law as a criminal defense attorney (either a public defender who represents defendants who can't afford their own attorney or a private criminal defense attorney). Prosecutors and public defenders don't typically have the highest salaries because they are paid by the government. But they are GREAT places to get good experience! Once you have that experience, you can move on to become a private criminal defense attorney and depending on your skills and your clients, this can be extremely lucrative.
In short, don't worry too much about the type of law you want to practice if you're just starting law school. Work hard in law school and what you want to do with your law degree will become apparent to you as you progress. And even if you decide NOT to practice law, a law degree will help you tremendously in many other areas of almost any profession. Remember, no one can take back your education once you have it. It's priceless, so make the most of it!
I personally believe your choice of practice after law school depends on your areas of interest, what you enjoy doing, and what you want to do with your practice (i.e., have a great job and pay the bills and/or make a difference in this world and impact society). Examples only, but if you enjoy going to trial, criminal law may be great. However, if you enjoy writing and hate going to trial, you may want to consider other types of law. I have found that after 25+ years of practice that I still enjoy my job b/c I am doing something that is interesting and challenging. That is critical, IMO, to have a successful career, so think about that first and foremost. And if you want to have a positive impact on society, pick a type of law that will enable you to do that via activities you enjoy.
From a financial perspective, there are a few considerations as well. You will be representing either the government as a prosecutor (also sometimes called a "district attorney" or D.A.) or the criminal defendant who is accused of breaking the law as a criminal defense attorney (either a public defender who represents defendants who can't afford their own attorney or a private criminal defense attorney). Prosecutors and public defenders don't typically have the highest salaries because they are paid by the government. But they are GREAT places to get good experience! Once you have that experience, you can move on to become a private criminal defense attorney and depending on your skills and your clients, this can be extremely lucrative.
In short, don't worry too much about the type of law you want to practice if you're just starting law school. Work hard in law school and what you want to do with your law degree will become apparent to you as you progress. And even if you decide NOT to practice law, a law degree will help you tremendously in many other areas of almost any profession. Remember, no one can take back your education once you have it. It's priceless, so make the most of it!
Sachin Joshi
Software engineer
23
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Sachin’s Answer
Whether criminal law is a good choice depends on your interests and values. It can be rewarding if you're passionate about justice, enjoy problem-solving, and are comfortable navigating legal complexities.
Perks may include the opportunity to make a positive impact on individuals' lives and society. However, it can be emotionally challenging and demanding. Consider your motivations and weigh the pros and cons.
The average annual earnings for a criminal lawyer can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the type of employer. In the United States, the median annual wage for lawyers, including criminal lawyers, was around $126,930 as of 2020. However, individual earnings may be higher or lower depending on specific circumstances.
Perks may include the opportunity to make a positive impact on individuals' lives and society. However, it can be emotionally challenging and demanding. Consider your motivations and weigh the pros and cons.
The average annual earnings for a criminal lawyer can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the type of employer. In the United States, the median annual wage for lawyers, including criminal lawyers, was around $126,930 as of 2020. However, individual earnings may be higher or lower depending on specific circumstances.
Thanks for the help.
Nicole