3 answers
Wyatt
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
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Day-to-day life of a lawyer?
What does the day-to-day life of a lawyer look like?
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3 answers
Julie Gold
Workplace Services
4
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Julie’s Answer
The answer is: it depends. It depends on the seniority of the lawyer, the type of law he/she is practicing, and whether he/she is in government, NFP, corporate or private practice. For most lawyers, however, the early parts of their career are spent reviewing documents and/or conducting legal research, both of which are often done for the purpose of working with more senior lawyers to prepare motions (i.e., requests for action from a court) and other legal filings such as motions for summary judgment. As one gets more senior, he/she will then likely become the person responsible for preparing the legal filings his/herself, while at the same time conducting more direct client interaction. This progression generally happens faster at smaller firms and in government and NFP practice, the latter two of which are often faced with resourcing challenges and not-as-cash-heavy clients. An often overlooked practical reality is that as one becomes more senior in private practice, there will be an expectation that he/she generates work for the firm or, as the saying goes, will "make it rain" or "you only eat what you kill." This translates to significantly greater than 50 percent of a lawyers time being dedicated to client development in addition to substantive (and billable) work. Regardless, a good lawyer will a always be expected to demonstrate good judgment, analytical skills, highly effective written an oral communication skills, empathy and a zealous advocacy for his/her clients' needs.
Bryston Stafford
Senior Consultant (lawyer) for International Tax Services
3
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Bryston’s Answer
It can depend on what kind of lawyer. Some lawyers are litigators (like those who you’d see in a courtroom), transactional lawyers (creating contracts, advising on business plans, etc.), and even legal scholars (studying and researching legal theory and policy). The common thread for all of them is constant research for the sake of advising others.
Thanks so much!
Wyatt
Rafael Diaz Montelongo
Consultant
235
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
A lawyer's day-to-day life involves conducting legal research, preparing documents, communicating with clients, attending court appearances, and meeting with colleagues and experts. They also handle administrative tasks and stay updated on legal developments through continuing education. It can be demanding but rewarding work!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Wyatt
I appreciate you going out of your way to answer my question! Thank you!
Wyatt