Q: I recall your encouraging others to take up a legal career. But lawyers are hardly thought of with much respect. Some are blamed for hurting police departments, others for attacking someone because they don’t like his politics. You still giving the thumbs up on a legal career?
R.M., Marina Del Rey
A: The way you phrase your question gives me some pause. Indeed, my understanding is that in China, the symbol for lawyers is two dogs barking at each other. There is, however, another side to the coin. There are many positives to attending law school and becoming a lawyer. Ultimately, it is a “weigh the pros and cons” analysis, which turns in part on an individual’s goals.
I do not regret practicing law. In fact, I will continue to do so. For me, personally, it is a thumbs up. I can’t guarantee others are going to find it suitable, enjoyable, rewarding or productive. What I can say is there are many options with your law degree, which is one reason why becoming a lawyer can be positive. For example, you have a variety of choices as to what kind of law to practice: Civil, criminal, tax, real estate, commercial, workers’ compensation, among others. Further, a civil lawyer can pursue personal injury, family law, immigration or handle business transactions, among other options.
A lawyer can also teach, write and, in time, seek to become a judge. A lawyer can go to court, or counsel from the office or both. Jobs are available in the private and public sectors, and you can choose to prosecute, or be on the defense side. There is also a benefit to knowing the law, whether you become an active attorney or not.
Research indicates there are more than 340,000 lawyers in the U.S., and woman are a little more than 50% of that number. Annual income (according to research) is in excess of $100,000. The job outlook is that employment is expected to grow as much as 8% from 2022 to 2031, faster than the average for most occupations. Some 39,000 openings for…
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