As with many professions, the discipline of law has gained a reputation over the years. However, too much of what we think we know about attorneys come from television and film – fancy suits, working 80 hours a week, and making big money.
Let’s take a step back.
While this is true for some lawyers (and most wear suits, of course!), there is a lot more to our beloved attorney friends that people may not know. Lawyers are a crucial part of this society and keep the justice scales balanced.
As college undergraduates, aspiring attorneys prepare to take the LSAT. The LSAT is an entrance exam for law school. After the application process and decision making, law school is a three-year process. And by “process,” we mean sacrifice, late nights, and living on student loans. Law students take difficult courses, devote long hours of studying, and engage in (mostly unpaid) internships to gain experience.
After graduation, they sit for the bar exam. It’s a good thing they are “sitting,” too, because the bar exam is 2 or 3 days and between 6 and 8 hours each day. Did you catch that? The test is for two or three days!
It’s offered twice per year, and it tests for a wide range of subjects. If they pass on the first try, they then have to fill out paperwork, take an ethics exam, and go through an interview. After all of this, they get sworn in to practice law in their state.
Some would say that becoming an attorney requires superpowers.
Attorneys provide advice and represent people in a wide range of legal issues, including:
If you hire an attorney, they will be your advocate. They understand the legal system and are fighting for you in it. They likely have relationships with key people, including opposing attorneys, judges, and other key players. They help keep law and order while working for justice.
"The most significant superpower? An attorney ensures that your voice is heard, that you have a plan to move forward with confidence."
Many jobs are more multifaceted than one may realize — lawyers are no exception. Here are some facts that you may not know about attorneys:
Many attorneys do more than just represent you in court. In many cases, they are a confidante and an advisor. In other cases, they help with other things, such as providing a referral to a mental health service. They can ensure you are getting the benefits you need.
The most significant superpower? An attorney ensures that your voice is heard, that you have a plan to move forward with confidence.
If you are in any kind of legal trouble and need advice but don’t know where to start, download the LegalQ app to talk to an attorney TODAY. LegalQ connects motivated legal consumers with attorneys who can answer your questions and help you figure out your next move.
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By: Joanna Smykowski
Sources
American Bar Association, Pro-Bono Reporting.
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/probono_public_service/policy/arguments/