2 answers
Samantha
Student
Hopewell, Virginia
5
Questions
Asked
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What other strengths or experiences might I need for a career in law ?
My passion/dream job would be to be a criminal lawyer I've been taking law studies and criminal justice classes ever since 7th grade I'm currently in 9th.
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2 answers
Matthew Connors
Attorney
13
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
It's wonderful to see you're already planning for your future! The first thing I would tell you? Take it slow. Over the past 20 years of practicing law, I've realized that life can surprise you. When I was your age, I never imagined I'd become a lawyer. In fact, I didn't even attend law school with the intention to practice. So, remember to explore all your passions and keep your options open. You never know where they might lead you. To become a lawyer, you'll need to complete 4 years of college, 3 years of law school, and pass the bar exam in the state you choose to practice in.
Now, for some practical advice: immerse yourself in reading. Absorb as much as you can and learn to read with a critical eye. Ask yourself, what did you just read? What was the article's main point? How can the points or claims in the article be applied to other scenarios? In most legal professions, the ability to read and analyze is a crucial daily skill. So, start honing these skills now and you'll be well-prepared for your future in law.
Now, for some practical advice: immerse yourself in reading. Absorb as much as you can and learn to read with a critical eye. Ask yourself, what did you just read? What was the article's main point? How can the points or claims in the article be applied to other scenarios? In most legal professions, the ability to read and analyze is a crucial daily skill. So, start honing these skills now and you'll be well-prepared for your future in law.
Amber Lee
Tax Associate
32
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hello Samantha!
That's a good question, and it's great you're thinking about it now. Getting some early exposure to different legal topics is an excellent way to begin, so you're doing the right thing! I would also encourage you to seek out internships. For example, some public defender's office have summer programs tailored specifically for high school students, but I will say most programs I've seen are geared towards undergrads or law students, so you might have to do more research on that to find opportunities in your area. Other internships might include opportunities at state or local bar associations and non-profit organizations. Although these may not be criminal law-specific, they are still valuable in that you will get the opportunity to learn about areas of the law that you may later develop an interest for. Additionally, you'll get the chance to network with a bunch of practicing attorneys and learn about their jobs (it's always good to stay on people's radar, as you never know who might have future opportunities that could help kickstart your career).
Another thing you can do is to keep yourself informed on hot button issues related to criminal justice (sentencing, bail reform, intersection of AI and criminal justice, etc.). You can try to keep yourself up-to-date on current affairs and -- depending on your level of comfort-- read academic papers. A lot of academic papers are available for free via law school or law review websites, so don't forget to take advantage of that!
When you begin your undergrad journey, you might consider taking classes that will allow you to hone your reading, writing, and communication skills. These are all excellent skills to have as an attorney, regardless of which area of the law you end up practicing in.
Since you're still in 9th grade, you have plenty of time to gain experience. More internship opportunities will become available once you're a little more advance in your education, so I wouldn't worry too much about that right now. The key thing is to stay curious and be open to learning. Good luck!
That's a good question, and it's great you're thinking about it now. Getting some early exposure to different legal topics is an excellent way to begin, so you're doing the right thing! I would also encourage you to seek out internships. For example, some public defender's office have summer programs tailored specifically for high school students, but I will say most programs I've seen are geared towards undergrads or law students, so you might have to do more research on that to find opportunities in your area. Other internships might include opportunities at state or local bar associations and non-profit organizations. Although these may not be criminal law-specific, they are still valuable in that you will get the opportunity to learn about areas of the law that you may later develop an interest for. Additionally, you'll get the chance to network with a bunch of practicing attorneys and learn about their jobs (it's always good to stay on people's radar, as you never know who might have future opportunities that could help kickstart your career).
Another thing you can do is to keep yourself informed on hot button issues related to criminal justice (sentencing, bail reform, intersection of AI and criminal justice, etc.). You can try to keep yourself up-to-date on current affairs and -- depending on your level of comfort-- read academic papers. A lot of academic papers are available for free via law school or law review websites, so don't forget to take advantage of that!
When you begin your undergrad journey, you might consider taking classes that will allow you to hone your reading, writing, and communication skills. These are all excellent skills to have as an attorney, regardless of which area of the law you end up practicing in.
Since you're still in 9th grade, you have plenty of time to gain experience. More internship opportunities will become available once you're a little more advance in your education, so I wouldn't worry too much about that right now. The key thing is to stay curious and be open to learning. Good luck!