Career Opportunities and Work Life

Skills You'll Need

Salary Ranges

The Classroom Experience

Certificate & Degree Options

There are a wide range of law specialties that lawyers can pursue. Even though each legal path has significant differences, the essential skills required are the same.

As you think about a legal career, ask yourself:

• Do I like working with people, regardless of the situation?
• Can I objectively analyze all the issues and consequences, while being empathetic to the client's situation?
• Am I good at problem solving?
• Do I like detailed work?
• Do I like to read and study?
• Can I successfully defend a position on a topic?

Law is an eye-opening, rewarding, and educational experience. A career in law is very demanding. From the first day of law school to the day of retirement, legal professions must continually stay up-to-date with changes in the law.

Another question that is important to ask yourself is "Do I like to educate and teach?" In the legal profession it is not enough just to educate yourself on the law, you must also educate your client. Our society is governed by a complex set of laws. Many clients may be unfamiliar with the law, and a lawyer must be able to help a client understand the legal matters at hand. The need to educate is critical so a client can make the most informed choice about their case.

Other skills needed in the legal profession include:

• Tact
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Confidence
• A drive to learn
• Negotiation