The legal profession is a challenging and plays a vital role in changing trends of the society. The money in this profession depends upon the person’s dedication, knowledge and hard work. It generally pays well depending upon the area of law one practices. It is good to help someone whose rights have been violated and is suffering.
A person understands the delicacies of the profession as grow older practicing the law. In this profession, learning is unstoppable due to changes in law and society.
Here are the few things to consider before taking up law as career:
- Are you prepared for paying the hefty fees of law schools?
To study law at elite National Law Universities [NLUs] could cost an average of Rs. 2,00,000 annually including the personal expenses. The fee is high due to costly library, faculty and infrastructure. The expenses increase while doing internships which is a mandate of Bar Council of India and is crucial and integral part for practicing the law which is indispensible. Even the private law colleges cost Rs. 3,50,000 annually.
However, if one opts for traditional state universities for pursuing the degree the entire course can be done within Rs. 1,00,000.
The investment made on the legal education can be realized back if one works at big multinational companies and law firms.
- Are you ready to dedicate more years to continue your education?
If one attends a law school just after 10+2, one has to dedicate 5 years to complete his graduation in law. In case where the law is pursued after graduation a period of 3 years are required to be contributed. For post-graduation another one year is required.
- Are you ready to perform well under pressure?
Specifically, do you do well on tests under pressure? In addition to the law entrance tests and the bar exam, law students must take numerous tests throughout law school. Sometimes your grade is determined by only one test given at the end of a year-long course, so performing well is a measure of one’s test-taking ability, at least in part.
- Are you comfortable with public speaking?
You must be comfortable presenting information to others, including clients, juries, judges, arbitrators, opposing counsel, witnesses, boards, and colleagues. Trial lawyers must feel at home advocating to a judge and being center stage in the courtroom. Corporate lawyers must be equally at ease in the boardroom with eyes glued on them down both sides of the conference room table. Even in-house lawyers are required to head committees, lead meetings and make presentations to staff and others.
- Do you like words?
Words are a lawyer’s tool of the earning bread. Lawyers are excellent communicators, adept at oral argument, and they’re strong writers as well. Trial lawyers must master the art of oral and written persuasion as they argue motions, try cases, take depositions and draft various legal pleadings. Corporate lawyers must master the art of negotiation and be proficient at drafting transactional documents such as agreements, indentures, and resolutions. If English isn’t your favorite subject or if you avoid writing whenever possible, then it may become hurdle at a certain stage.
- Do you have an analytical mind?
Logical and Critical thinking is essential for interpretation of provisions of statutes. An analytical mind is a requisite for application of laws in the given set of facts and circumstances.
- Can you be available 24×7?
This isn’t a requirement for all lawyers, but depending on the area of law you pursue, value-conscious clients may expect you to be accessible around the clock. This is particularly true in the case of criminal law. Smartphones allow legal professionals to stay connected 24×7, so the job doesn’t end for many lawyers when they physically leave the courtroom or their offices at the end of the day.
Most successful lawyers don’t work a 40-hour work week. Lawyers who do work sane schedules, such as those in public interest venues and academia, often trade high salaries for a better work-life balance.
- Are you prepared to develop clients and new business?
Most law firm attorneys are responsible for client development. Compensation, bonuses, draws, and partnership opportunities are frequently based on an attorney’s ability to bring in business for the firm, at least in part. So in addition to the demands of practicing law, you must excel at marketing yourself and your organization to prospective clients.
- Are you prepared to dress the part?
Casual dress for lawyers is not the norm. Most lawyers spend their workdays in suits and business attire. This helps lawyers command respect, inspire trust and convey a polished image.
If you’ve been nodding your head yes to all these questions, you may have found best profession to practice.
