3 answers
John
Student
Lenox, Massachusetts
2
Questions
3 answers
Stefanie Underwood Tavaglione
lawyer
15
Answers
Bernardsville, New Jersey
Updated
Stefanie’s Answer
Interesting question! From a technical/basic standpoint, a lawyer in the US is someone who has graduated college, then went to 3 years of law school (where you study the basics of the legal system and legal theories/concepts, learn how to perform legal research and legal writing, etc.) and then pass the bar exam. In terms of what do lawyers do, there are all kinds of lawyers who practice all kinds of law. For example, there are criminal lawyers, who either work for the government to prosecute those charged with crimes, or who defend individuals who have been charged with crimes. There are various legal services and social services lawyers, who might assist clients with all kinds of legal help they need in areas such as housing, employment, healthcare and immigration. There are corporate lawyers who work for companies, assisting the company with their legal needs (tax, advertising, property, employment, privacy, etc.). There are private lawyers who work at law firms and might specialize in all kind of areas (family law, litigation, environmental, etc.). Lawyers are called litigators when they practice a type of law and argue their cases in a courtroom like you see on tv, but a lot of lawyers work with contracts or on other types of law where they don't necessarily go to a court room. So, I hope this helped you to understand that there are many, many different areas of law to consider and explore! Good luck!
Sujata Chakraborty
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Sujata’s Answer
Becoming a lawyer requires a dedicated journey of learning, which includes earning a bachelor's degree, thriving in law school, successfully passing the bar exam, and fulfilling the unique licensing requirements of your state. It's a path that calls for a profound grasp of legal principles and regulations. But most importantly, it's a career for those who find joy in lending a helping hand to others. So, if you're passionate about justice and love to help, this rewarding journey is just for you!
John Deas
Attorney
1
Answer
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
John’s Answer
As a lawyer, you're seen as someone who's always expected to do the right thing, and held to a higher standard because of it! You're the kind of person who takes delight in assisting others, especially when they're in situations that require legal advice or help.