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What does a lawyer do?

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What is a Lawyer?

A lawyer provides advice, representation, and advocacy to individuals, businesses, or organizations on legal matters. Lawyers are trained in the law and have a deep understanding of legal principles, procedures, and regulations. They work in various areas of the law, such as civil litigation, criminal defense, corporate law, family law, real estate law, and more. Lawyers may specialize in specific practice areas or work as general practitioners, depending on their expertise and interests.

In addition to their legal expertise, lawyers must possess strong analytical, communication, and advocacy skills to effectively represent their clients' interests. They must be able to analyze complex legal issues, identify relevant laws and precedents, and develop strategic legal arguments. Lawyers must also communicate clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing, when presenting cases to judges, juries, or opposing counsel. Furthermore, lawyers must adhere to ethical standards and professional conduct rules, maintaining confidentiality and acting in the best interests of their clients while upholding the principles of justice and fairness.

What does a Lawyer do?

Duties and Responsibilities Lawyers have a wide range of duties and responsibilities, which may vary depending on their practice area and the specific needs of their clients. Some common duties and responsibilities of lawyers include:

• Providing Legal Advice: Lawyers offer legal advice and counsel to individuals, businesses, or organizations on various legal matters. They analyze legal issues, interpret laws and regulations, and advise clients on their rights, obligations, and potential courses of action.
• Researching Legal Issues: Lawyers conduct legal research to gather information, identify relevant laws, precedents, and regulations, and analyze how they apply to specific cases or situations. They use legal databases, court opinions, statutes, and other resources to support their arguments and provide guidance to clients.
• Drafting Legal Documents: Lawyers prepare and draft legal documents such as contracts, agreements, pleadings, motions, briefs, and legal opinions. They ensure that these documents are accurate, clear, and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
• Representing Clients: Lawyers represent clients in various legal proceedings, including negotiations, mediations, arbitrations, administrative hearings, trials, and appeals. They advocate on behalf of their clients' interests, present evidence, examine witnesses, and argue legal points in court.
• Negotiating Settlements: Lawyers negotiate settlements and agreements on behalf of their clients to resolve legal disputes outside of court. They engage in discussions with opposing parties or their legal representatives to reach mutually acceptable outcomes that meet their clients' objectives.
• Conducting Case Management: Lawyers manage all aspects of their cases, including case strategy, preparation, and organization. They maintain communication with clients, keep them informed about case developments, and ensure that deadlines are met and procedures followed.
• Advising on Compliance and Risk Management: Lawyers advise businesses and organizations on compliance with laws, regulations, and industry standards to mitigate legal risks and prevent potential liabilities. They develop compliance programs, review policies and procedures, and provide training to ensure adherence to legal requirements.
• Upholding Ethical Standards: Lawyers must adhere to ethical standards and professional conduct rules established by state bar associations. They maintain confidentiality, avoid conflicts of interest, and act with integrity and honesty in their interactions with clients, courts, and other parties involved in legal proceedings.

Types of Lawyers There are many different types of lawyers, each specializing in a particular area of law. Each area of law has its own set of rules, regulations, and legal precedents, and requires a unique set of skills and knowledge to navigate effectively.

• Animal Lawyers : An animal lawyer specializes in legal issues related to animals, including animal welfare, protection, and rights. They may work on cases involving animal cruelty, neglect, custody disputes, wildlife conservation, or advocacy for animal rights and welfare laws.
• Corporate Lawyers: Corporate lawyers specialize in providing legal advice and representation to businesses, corporations, and other organizations. They handle a wide range of corporate legal matters, including corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, and litigation.
• Criminal Lawyers: Criminal lawyers, also known as defense attorneys, specialize in representing individuals or organizations accused of committing crimes. They provide legal counsel, advocate for their clients' rights, and defend them in criminal proceedings, including trials, plea negotiations, and sentencing hearings.
• Environmental Lawyers: Environmental lawyers focus on legal issues related to environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability. They work on cases involving environmental regulations, land use, pollution control, natural resource management, and climate change mitigation, advocating for environmental justice and representing clients in legal proceedings.
• Family Lawyers: Family lawyers specialize in legal matters related to family relationships and domestic issues. They handle cases such as divorce, child custody and support, adoption, paternity disputes, prenuptial agreements, and domestic violence, providing legal advice, mediation, and representation to individuals and families navigating these sensitive matters.
• Immigration Lawyers: Immigration lawyers specialize in assisting individuals, families, and businesses with immigration-related legal matters. They provide guidance on visa applications, citizenship issues, deportation proceedings, asylum claims, and other immigration issues, advocating for their clients' rights and helping them navigate the complexities of immigration law.
• Intellectual Property Lawyers: Intellectual property lawyers specialize in protecting and enforcing the legal rights of individuals or businesses regarding intellectual property assets. They handle matters such as trademark registration, patent applications, copyright infringement disputes, licensing agreements, and intellectual property litigation.
• Personal Injury Lawyers: Personal injury lawyers specialize in representing individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others. They advocate for their clients to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages through negotiation, mediation, or litigation in civil court.
• Real Estate Lawyers: Real estate lawyers specialize in providing legal services related to real property transactions and disputes. They handle matters such as property purchases, sales, leases, zoning issues, title examinations, and real estate litigation, ensuring that their clients' interests are protected and transactions comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Are you suited to be a lawyer?

Lawyers have distinct personalities . They tend to be enterprising individuals, which means they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic. They are dominant, persuasive, and motivational. Some of them are also investigative, meaning they’re intellectual, introspective, and inquisitive.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if lawyer is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a Lawyer like?

The workplace of a lawyer is dynamic and can vary significantly depending on their practice area, employment setting, and the nature of their work. Many lawyers work in law firms, where they typically have their own offices or share space with colleagues. Law firms can range in size from small boutique firms to large multinational practices, and lawyers may collaborate closely with partners, associates, paralegals, and support staff to serve their clients' legal needs. The environment in a law firm can be fast-paced and demanding, with lawyers often juggling multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously.

In addition to law firms, lawyers may work in corporate legal departments, providing in-house counsel to businesses and organizations. In this setting, lawyers may have offices within the company's headquarters or work remotely, depending on the organization's structure and policies. Corporate lawyers often work closely with executives, managers, and other departments to address legal issues related to corporate governance, contracts, regulatory compliance, intellectual property, and litigation management. They may also collaborate with external counsel and other professionals to handle specialized legal matters.

Some lawyers choose to work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or as solo practitioners, each offering unique work environments and challenges. Government lawyers may work in federal, state, or local agencies, representing the government's interests in legal matters such as criminal prosecutions, regulatory enforcement, or policy development. Non-profit lawyers may advocate for social justice, civil rights, or environmental protection, working on behalf of marginalized communities or advocacy organizations. Solo practitioners have the flexibility to set their own schedules and work from home or a private office, but they must also manage the administrative aspects of running their own legal practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing a legal specialization.

Choosing a legal specialization requires careful consideration of your interests, skills, career goals, and market demand. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

• Self-Assessment: Start by reflecting on your interests, strengths, and values. Consider the areas of law that appeal to you the most and align with your personal and professional goals.
• Research: Conduct thorough research into different legal practice areas to understand their scope, complexity, and career prospects. Explore the types of cases and clients typically associated with each specialization, as well as the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges.
• Networking: Reach out to practicing lawyers, law professors, and legal professionals in various specialties to gain insights into their experiences and perspectives. Networking can provide valuable information and help you build connections within different legal fields.
• Internships and Externships: Seek out opportunities to gain practical experience in different legal practice areas through internships, externships, or clerkships. Hands-on experience can provide valuable insights into the realities of different legal specialties and help you determine which areas are the best fit for your interests and skills.
• Consider Market Demand: Research the demand for legal services in different practice areas, taking into account factors such as industry trends, client needs, and economic conditions. Specializing in a niche area with high demand can offer greater career opportunities and potential for growth.
• Evaluate Personal Preferences: Consider your preferred work environment, lifestyle preferences, and long-term career goals when choosing a legal specialization. Some specialties may require extensive travel, long hours, or high-stress work environments, while others offer more flexibility and work-life balance.
• Seek Guidance: Consult with mentors, career counselors, and legal professionals who can provide guidance and advice based on their expertise and experience. They can offer valuable insights, answer questions, and help you navigate the decision-making process.
• Continuing Education: Keep abreast of developments in the legal profession and consider pursuing additional education or training in your chosen specialization. Continuing education programs, workshops, and seminars can deepen your knowledge and skills in specific areas of law and enhance your career prospects.

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Pros and Cons of Being a Lawyer

Becoming a lawyer offers numerous advantages and opportunities, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of being a lawyer:

• Intellectual Challenge: Law is a complex and dynamic field that offers continuous intellectual stimulation and problem-solving opportunities. Lawyers engage in critical analysis, research, and argumentation to address legal issues and advocate for their clients' interests.
• Variety of Career Paths: Lawyers have a wide range of career options available to them, including private practice, government work, corporate law, public interest law, academia, and more. This diversity allows lawyers to pursue their interests and passions in various areas of law.
• Financial Rewards: Lawyers often have the potential to earn high salaries, particularly in prestigious law firms or specialized practice areas. Successful lawyers can command substantial fees for their services and enjoy financial stability and career advancement opportunities.
• Impact and Influence: Lawyers have the opportunity to make a positive impact on society by advocating for justice, defending individual rights, and shaping public policy. They play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights and freedoms of individuals and communities.
• Continuous Learning: The legal profession offers opportunities for lifelong learning and professional development. Lawyers must stay abreast of changes in laws, regulations, and legal precedents, which requires ongoing education and training to maintain their expertise and effectiveness.
• Long Hours and Stress: The legal profession is notorious for its demanding workload and long hours, especially for lawyers in private practice or high-pressure practice areas. Lawyers often face tight deadlines, high-stakes cases, and intense pressure to deliver results, leading to stress and burnout.
• High Pressure and Responsibility: Lawyers bear significant responsibility for the outcomes of their cases and the well-being of their clients. The pressure to win cases, meet client expectations, and uphold ethical standards can be immense and may contribute to anxiety and job-related stress.
• Work-Life Balance: Achieving a healthy work-life balance can be challenging for lawyers, particularly those in high-demand practice areas. Long hours, evening and weekend work, and frequent travel can take a toll on personal relationships, health, and overall well-being.
• Job Market Competition: The legal job market can be highly competitive, especially for entry-level positions and prestigious opportunities. Aspiring lawyers may face challenges securing employment, advancing their careers, or establishing successful practices in saturated markets.
• Emotional Toll: Dealing with contentious legal disputes, sensitive client matters, and traumatic experiences can have a significant emotional toll on lawyers. The nature of legal work may expose lawyers to emotionally challenging situations, including conflicts, crises, and human suffering.

Lawyers are also known as: Attorney

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What I Wish I Had Known Before Becoming a Lawyer

• Dustin S. McCrary

There is always going to be more work — we can’t say the same about our health.

In the past few years, we’ve learned how common burnout is. In this article, the author opens up about their experience of prioritizing their job as a lawyer over their own mental health, and shares some strategies young lawyers or new grads can use to avoid falling into this trap.

• Before taking a job, gauge the company culture. If you take a job in a work environment that doesn’t value you beyond your skills or take care of your psychological health, it’s going to be unsustainable in the long run.
• Don’t ignore your physical triggers. If you feel stressed during your workday, practice small things like staying hydrated, breathing deeply for a few seconds, or taking a short walk around your office to physically disconnect.
• The hard truth is that the legal profession is extremely draining. So, build a life outside work. This could look like taking regular time off such as vacation or personal days. Another option is to look for hobbies and activities outside work that energize you and give you joy.
• Finally, give yourself a little grace. At the end of the day, remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can.

Where your work meets your life. See more from Ascend here .

When I started law school, I loved it. The hypercompetitive classroom, the demanding coursework, and the adrenaline rush of solving complex cases drove me to pursue this career. Once I officially earned the job title “lawyer,” I was drawn even more to the fast-paced work culture. I wanted to stand out, make a difference, and find my own niche. My work was my passion and it empowered me.

• Dustin S. McCrary  is the founder of the Law Office of Dustin S. McCrary, PLLC based in Statesville, N.C. He focuses his practice on the legal needs of divorce and separation serving his clients in all aspects of the process including separation, child custody, child support, alimony and spousal support, property distribution, and domestic violence. McCrary recently published a new book called “Helping Your Children Cope with Divorce.”

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Mastering the Art of Legal Presentations: Essential Tips and Tricks

Navigating through law school and legal careers, budding attorneys realize that mastering the art of presentation is as crucial as knowing the letter of the law. Whether it's arguing a mock trial, presenting a case in court, or persuading peers during a seminar, effective presentation skills can set you apart in the competitive field of law. This Q&A post delves into some of the most commonly asked questions about law presentations and offers presentation hacks aimed at making you a more compelling legal communicator.

Do Presentation Skills Really Matter for Lawyers?

Absolutely! In the legal profession, presenting ideas and arguments clearly and persuasively is critical to success. The American Bar Association emphasizes the importance of honing presentation skills from law school onwards; being persuasive and articulate is a part of your toolkit as an attorney.

What Are Some Effective Presentation Hacks for Legal Professionals?

Start With a Clear Message : Know the core message of your presentation and keep it concise. A clear thesis helps you stay on track and makes your argument more digestible for your audience.

Understand Your Audience : Gauge the level of understanding your audience has about the topic. Presenting to peers might require a different approach than speaking to a jury or a judge.

Use Storytelling : A legal case is essentially a story with a problem and a resolution. Tapping into the power of storytelling can make your presentation more engaging and memorable.

Practice, Practice, Practice : Rehearse your presentation multiple times. This helps reduce nervousness and ensures you're comfortable with the material.

Seek Feedback : Before your presentation, practice in front of colleagues or mentors and ask for constructive criticism to sharpen your delivery.

How Can I Overcome Public Speaking Anxiety Before a Legal Presentation?

Facing a courtroom or an auditorium can be intimidating, but there are strategies to combat this anxiety. Preparing thoroughly is a start; being familiar with every aspect of your presentation can alleviate fear. Additionally, techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can be beneficial. Moreover, watching inspiring TED Talks on public speaking can provide valuable insights into overcoming fears and delivering impactful messages.

For those looking for a comprehensive solution to enhance their presentation skills, we suggest exploring various features of presentation-focused tools and platforms. While not a substitute for personal practice, these tools can offer unique insights and aid in your delivery. For instance, the features section on College Tools may provide some interesting avenues to explore.

What Role Does Body Language Play in Legal Presentations?

Your physical presence can be as compelling as the words you speak. A poised stance, eye contact, and intentional gestures can convey confidence and help underscore your points. Posture and movement can non-verbally communicate passion for your subject matter and connect with your audience on a more profound level.

Can Technology Help in Improving my Presentations?

Definitely! Technology and AI-powered tools can assist in fine-tuning your presentations. They can help in organizing content, providing cues, and even analyzing your pace and tone. Embracing technology can also make your presentations more dynamic, engaging audiences with multimedia elements that might not be possible with traditional methods.

How Important Is the Quality of Visual Aids in Legal Presentations?

Visual aids should not distract from the message but rather support it. High-quality, pertinent visuals can reinforce your argument or help to clarify complex concepts. Carefully consider your choice of visuals, whether they're diagrams, timelines, or other graphical elements; they should be professionally rendered and easy to understand.

Becoming an effective legal presenter takes time, practice, and a willingness to learn from each experience. Employing the right presentation hacks , understanding the significance of effective communication , and continuing to build upon public speaking skills will prove invaluable throughout your legal career. Strive for clarity, conciseness, and connection with your audience, and you'll be better equipped to make your case, inside and outside the courtroom.

Conclusion: Strong presentation skills are a foundational element of a successful legal career. This Q&A has addressed critical aspects of delivering compelling legal presentations, offering insights and hacks to help you polish your communication prowess. Remember, the journey to becoming an articulate legal professional is ongoing; continue learning, practicing, and adapting to become the best presenter you can be.

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Lawyers advise and represent individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes.

Lawyers typically do the following:

• Advise and represent clients in courts, before government agencies, and in private legal matters
• Communicate with their clients, colleagues, judges, and others involved in the case
• Conduct research and analysis of legal problems
• Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses
• Present facts in writing and verbally to their clients or others, and argue on behalf of their clients
• Prepare and file legal documents, such as lawsuits, appeals, wills, contracts, and deeds

Lawyers, also called  attorneys , act as both advocates and advisors.

As advocates, they represent one of the parties in a criminal or civil trial by presenting evidence and arguing in support of their client.

As advisors, lawyers counsel their clients about their legal rights and obligations and suggest courses of action in business and personal matters. All attorneys research the intent of laws and judicial decisions and apply the laws to the specific circumstances that their clients face.

Lawyers often oversee the work of support staff, such as paralegals and legal assistants and legal secretaries.

Lawyers may have different titles and different duties, depending on where they work.

In law firms, lawyers, sometimes called  associates , perform legal work for individuals or businesses. Those who represent and defend the accused may be called criminal law   attorneys  or  defense attorneys .

Attorneys also work for federal, state, and local governments.   Prosecutors  typically work for the government to file a lawsuit, or charge, against an individual or corporation accused of violating the law. Some may also work as  public defense attorneys , representing individuals who could not afford to hire their own private attorney.

Others may work as  government counsels  for administrative bodies and executive or legislative branches of government. They write and interpret laws and regulations and set up procedures to enforce them. Government counsels also write legal reviews of agency decisions. They argue civil and criminal cases on behalf of the government.

Corporate counsels , also called  in-house counsels , are lawyers who work for corporations. They advise a corporation’s executives about legal issues related to the corporation’s business activities. These issues may involve patents, government regulations, contracts with other companies, property interests, taxes, or collective-bargaining agreements with unions.

Public-interest lawyers  work for private, nonprofit organizations that provide legal services to disadvantaged people or others who otherwise might not be able to afford legal representation. They generally handle civil cases, such as those having to do with leases, job discrimination, and wage disputes, rather than criminal cases.

In addition to working in different industries, lawyers may specialize in particular legal fields. Following are examples of types of lawyers in these fields:

Environmental lawyers  deal with issues and regulations that are related to the environment. For example, they may work for advocacy groups, waste disposal companies, or government agencies to help ensure compliance with relevant laws.

Tax lawyers  handle a variety of tax-related issues for individuals and corporations. They may help clients navigate complex tax regulations, so that clients pay the appropriate tax on items such as income, profits, and property. For example, tax lawyers may advise a corporation on how much tax it needs to pay from profits made in different states in order to comply with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules.

Intellectual property lawyers  deal with the laws related to inventions, patents, trademarks, and creative works, such as music, books, and movies. For example, an intellectual property lawyer may advise a client about whether it is okay to use published material in the client’s forthcoming book.

Family lawyers  handle a variety of legal issues that pertain to the family. They may advise clients regarding divorce, child custody, and adoption proceedings.

Securities lawyers  work on legal issues arising from the buying and selling of stocks, ensuring that all disclosure requirements are met. They may advise corporations that are interested in listing in the stock exchange through an initial public offering (IPO) or in buying shares in another corporation.

Lawyers held about 833,100 jobs in 2021. The largest employers of lawyers were as follows:

Lawyers work mostly in offices. However, some travel to attend meetings with clients at various locations, such as homes, hospitals, or prisons. Others travel to appear before courts.

Lawyers may face heavy pressure during work—for example, during trials or when trying to meet deadlines.

Work Schedules

The majority of lawyers work full time and many work more than 40 hours per week. Lawyers who are in private practice and those who work in large firms often work additional hours, conducting research and preparing and reviewing documents.

Lawyers must have a law degree and must also typically pass a state’s written bar examination.

Becoming a lawyer usually takes 7 years of full-time study after high school—4 years of undergraduate study, followed by 3 years of law school. Most states and jurisdictions require lawyers to complete a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the  American Bar Association  (ABA). ABA accreditation signifies that the law school—particularly its curricula and faculty—meets certain standards.

A bachelor's degree is typically required for entry into most law schools. Undergraduate fields of study may include law and legal studies, history, or social science.

Almost all law schools, particularly those approved by the ABA, require applicants to take the  Law School Admission Test  (LSAT). This test measures applicants’ aptitude for the study of law.

A J.D. degree program includes courses such as constitutional law, contracts, property law, civil procedure, and legal writing. Law students may choose specialized courses in areas such as tax, labor, and corporate law.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Prospective lawyers take licensing exams called “bar exams.” Lawyers who receive a license to practice law are “admitted to the bar.”

To practice law in any state, a person must be admitted to the state’s bar under rules established by the jurisdiction’s highest court. The requirements vary by state and jurisdiction. For more details on individual state and jurisdiction requirements, visit the  National Conference of Bar Examiners .

Most states require that applicants graduate from an ABA-accredited law school, pass one or more written bar exams, and be found by an admitting board to have the character to represent and advise others. Prior felony convictions, academic misconduct, and a history of substance abuse are just some factors that may disqualify an applicant from being admitted to the bar.

Lawyers who want to practice in more than one state often must take the bar exam in each state.

After graduation, lawyers must keep informed about legal developments that affect their practices. Almost all states require lawyers to participate in continuing legal education either every year or every 3 years.

Many law schools and state and local bar associations provide continuing legal education courses that help lawyers stay current with recent developments. Courses vary by state and generally cover a subject within the practice of law, such as legal ethics, taxes and tax fraud, and healthcare. Some states allow lawyers to take continuing education credits through online courses.

Advancement

Newly hired attorneys usually start as associates and work on teams with more experienced lawyers. After several years, some lawyers may advance to partnership in their firm, meaning that they become partial owners of the firm. Those who do not advance within their firm may be forced to leave, a practice commonly known as “up or out.”

After gaining a few years of work experience, some lawyers go into practice for themselves or move to the legal department of a large corporation. Very few in-house attorneys are hired directly out of law school.

Other Experience

Part-time jobs or summer internships in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments provide valuable experience. Some smaller firms, government agencies, and public-interest organizations may hire students as summer associates after they have completed their first year at law school. Many larger firms’ summer associate programs are eligible only to law students who have completed their second year. All of these experiences can help law students decide what kind of legal work they want to focus on in their careers and may lead directly to a job after graduation.

Lawyers typically have an interest in the Thinking and Persuading interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Thinking interest area indicates a focus on researching, investigating, and increasing the understanding of natural laws. The Persuading interest area indicates a focus on influencing, motivating, and selling to other people.

If you are not sure whether you have a Thinking or Persuading interest which might fit with a career as a lawyer, you can take a career test to measure your interests.

Lawyers should also possess the following specific qualities:

Analytical skills . Lawyers help their clients resolve problems and issues. As a result, they must be able to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.

Interpersonal skills. Lawyers must win the respect and confidence of their clients by building a trusting relationship, so that clients feel comfortable and share personal information related to their case.

Problem-solving skills. Lawyers must separate their emotions and prejudice from their clients’ problems and objectively evaluate the matter. Therefore, good problem-solving skills are important for lawyers, to prepare the best defense and recommendation.

Research skills. Preparing legal advice or representation for a client commonly requires substantial research. All lawyers need to be able to find what applicable laws and regulations apply to a specific matter.

Speaking skills. Lawyers are hired by their clients to speak on their behalf. Lawyers must be able to clearly present and explain evidence to a judge and jury. 

Writing skills. Lawyers need to be precise and specific when preparing documents, such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

The median annual wage for lawyers was $127,990 in May 2021. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $61,400, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $208,000.

In May 2021, the median annual wages for lawyers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

Lawyers who own their own practices usually earn less than those who work in law firms or other business establishments. Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey wage data only includes lawyers working in business establishments.

Employment of lawyers is projected to grow 10 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 48,700 openings for lawyers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. 

Demand for legal work is expected to continue as individuals, businesses, and all levels of government require legal services in many areas.

Despite this need for legal services, more price competition over the projections decade may lead law firms to rethink project staffing to reduce costs to clients. Clients are expected to cut back on legal expenses by negotiating rates and scrutinizing invoices. Work that was previously assigned to lawyers, such as document review, may be assigned instead to paralegals and legal assistants. Some of this routine legal work may be outsourced to lower cost legal providers located overseas.

Although law firms will continue to be among the largest employers of lawyers, many large corporations are increasing their in-house legal departments to cut costs.

The federal government is likely to continue needing lawyers to handle civil or criminal actions on behalf of the United States. However, demand for lawyers across all levels of government is contingent on available funding.

For more information about law schools and a career in law, visit

American Bar Association

National Association for Law Placement

For more information about the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the law school application process, visit

Law School Admission Council

For a list of state and jurisdiction admission bar offices, visit

National Conference of Bar Examiners

The requirements for admission to the bar in a particular state or other jurisdiction may be obtained at the state capital, from the clerk of the state Supreme Court, or from the administrator of the State Board of Bar Examiners.

Where does this information come from?

The career information above is taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook . This excellent resource for occupational data is published by the U.S. Department of Labor every two years. Truity periodically updates our site with information from the BLS database.

I would like to cite this page for a report. Who is the author?

There is no published author for this page. Please use citation guidelines for webpages without an author available. 

I think I have found an error or inaccurate information on this page. Who should I contact?

This information is taken directly from the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Truity does not editorialize the information, including changing information that our readers believe is inaccurate, because we consider the BLS to be the authority on occupational information. However, if you would like to correct a typo or other technical error, you can reach us at [email protected] .

I am not sure if this career is right for me. How can I decide?

There are many excellent tools available that will allow you to measure your interests, profile your personality, and match these traits with appropriate careers. On this site, you can take the Career Personality Profiler assessment, the Holland Code assessment, or the Photo Career Quiz .

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How to nail the presentation you’ve been asked to give at your firm

• March 16, 2020

Jennifer Anderson

Lawyers, especially litigators, tend to have an affinity for the dramatic. When it comes to the workplace, this often translates into a deep-rooted desire for everyone in the firm to be world-class presenters. This makes sense for the lawyers — after all, they’re likely to end up presenting cases in front of a judge and jury someday.

That does not mean, however, that other legal professionals within the firm are off the hook. Often, paralegals, administrators, and other employees will be called upon to give presentations on everything from current case law to employee benefit plan options. And, not surprisingly, the better you are at presenting the more cachet you’ll build among your co-workers and employers.

But not everyone is a natural when it comes to public speaking. That’s okay! In this article, we present you with some of our top tips for nailing your next law firm presentation.

Practice, practice, practice

When most people are asked to give a presentation, they fall into an all-too-familiar trap. Specifically, they will write out their speech (whether on the computer or on note cards), read the content obsessively prior to the presentation date, then do the first “live” presentation when they’re sitting in front of their co-workers. This is a big mistake.

The better course of action is to practice the presentation repeatedly before you give it to other people. Read it out loud. See where you get tripped up and then edit that section so it flows easier when you have to say it out loud to your colleagues. Get to the point where you can get all the way through the presentation with ease. That way, there won’t be any surprises and you’ll feel confident as you start speaking at the firm.

Beware of your own tics

Did you ever have a professor in college who said “um” about 43,000 times per lecture? Maybe you and your classmates even made a game out of counting the total “ums” per class. While amusing for the listener, the real tragedy is that tics like this can cause your audience to completely ignore the substance of your presentation. Worse yet, the speaker is rarely aware that he or she is engaging in this repetitive behavior.

What that means is that you’re going to have to find someone who will check you for tics (pun intended). Have a friend listen to your presentation and give you honest feedback about things like excessive use of repeated phrases like “um” or “like” or “you know what I mean?” Also have the person take note of any physical tics such as foot-tapping, pencil chewing, or white-knuckling the podium.

Once you’re aware of your own tics, you can set about to eradicate them. Again, this will involve a ton of practice, but it will be time well spent when you nail your presentation in front of the firm’s partners.

Videotape yourself

I don’t know a single person who enjoys this process, but, in my experience, it is the single most effective tool for improving your public speaking skills. For most people, all you’ll have to do is set up your cellphone to record your practice sessions . Then comes the hard part — you have to watch it.

You better believe you’ll learn a lot about your presentation skills. In fact, when I first employed this trick to prepare for a mock opening statement in law school, I learned that I — perhaps having watched too many episodes of “Matlock” in my day — said the phrase “ladies and gentlemen of the jury” no fewer than 30 times in a five-minute presentation. And until I watched that video, I had no idea I was doing it. It was one of the most useful, if not painful, lessons of my entire legal career. I promise you’ll hate this process but I also promise it will improve your public speaking skills more than anything else.

Take a class

I understand that you may not have time to enroll in a course between the moment your law firm partner assigns you a presentation and the moment you have to give it. That said, you are in the legal profession and chances are you’ll be called upon to speak publicly at some point. So, if this is an insecurity of yours, why not seek out some professional guidance? In fact, there are a surprising number of free resources online designed specifically to help you become a better speaker.

The truth about giving successful presentations at your law firm is that it is just like anything else in your legal career — it will take hard work, preparation, and a healthy dose of confidence. What are your go-to tricks for giving a winning presentation at the firm?

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Lawyers on television provide the basis for plenty of misconceptions about what it's like to be a lawyer and what they do. A career day highlighting the profession can set the record straight for students and expose them to the many types of law that lawyers practice. In fact, there are so many types of lawyers it's useful to focus on themes appropriate for the age level of students, such as how to become a lawyer or the Constitution.

Select Themes

It's difficult to talk about being a lawyer without covering what kind of law is practiced, because what a criminal attorney does is different from the duties of a lawyer working in environmental law. Descriptions of the many fields of law are provided on the Law School Admission Council website. Pick one or two types of law to cover, such as sports and entertainment law or family law.

You can focus on issues such as lawsuits and small claims court. Discuss the laws and processes involved, and how lawyers help people with them. You can also just keep the focus on how to become a lawyer and how people choose their specialties based on their skills and interests.

Classroom Activities

It takes a lot of work to become a lawyer. Using resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics , students can research how to become a lawyer. You can simulate some of the process in the classroom.

Many law schools interview applicants during the admission process, so you can conduct mock interviews asking why students want to be lawyers. Most law schools require applicants to submit scores from the Law School Admission Test, or LSAT. Prepare a short sample test with reading comprehension questions tailored to the grade level of students. Have students study a list of the fields of law, choose a specialty and fill out a basic job profile.

Young children also enjoy learning about careers. Even kindergarteners are curious about what grown-ups do at work. A career day about lawyers for kindergarten students, for example, could feature parents who have a law degree. Ask willing parents to give a lawyer presentation by PowerPoint showing them in their office and in court, for example.

Guest Speakers

Some state bar associations, such as the Illinois State Bar Association , keep a database of lawyers willing to volunteer to speak to schools and classrooms about legal topics, including a career in law. You can also ask local law firms if anyone in their practice would consider giving a career day lawyer PowerPoint presentation. Arrange the topics for discussion with the lawyer ahead of time – you may want to tailor any classroom activities to the types of lawyers that are available.

For example, go with a theme of traffic law and traffic court for high school students if your volunteer lawyer has experience or knowledge of the field. A general topic any lawyer can cover for younger students is the importance of laws to society. Help them come up questions to ask a lawyer on career day.

A mock trial typically takes more than a day to prepare for and conduct, but if you can do preliminary activities before career day, such as assigning roles and studying a script, you may be able to hold the trial itself during a class period. Ask a local lawyer to serve as judge, or offer advice to participants. If you don't have the time or resources for a full mock trial, break students into groups to interview each other as witnesses to crimes and take depositions, or go through the jury selection process.

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Career Coaching for Lawyers: How to Maximize Happiness With Your Legal Career

August 16, 2023 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm.

All professional athletes and many top business executives use the services of coaches.  Why should lawyers be different?  Career coaching provides lawyers a valuable tool to explore their personal satisfaction with their career and explore career goals and strategies.  This presentation will present three top legal career coaches who will explain how they work everyday with lawyers seeking to maximize their career success and happiness.  Please join us and you may find a new way to improve your legal career.

Presented by the Professional Development Committee 

Rachel Gezerseh, Panish Shea Boyle Ravipudi

Rachel Gezerseh is a trial attorney with Panish Shea Boyle Ravipudi who specializes in litigating catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death and products liability cases. Ms. Gezerseh was previously an attorney at international law firm Jones Day, where she litigated large scale product liability cases. Currently, Ms. Gezerseh represents plaintiffs in the Southern California Fire Cases litigation. Ms. Gezerseh has been named to the Southern California Super Lawyers list since 2020 and recognized by her peers as a Southern California Super Lawyers “Rising Star” since 2013. She has been featured in Bloomberg Law and ABA for Law Students and is the author of the Law Career Playbook, the leading networking guide for law students and new lawyers. A member of the State Bar of California and the State Bar of Nevada, Ms. Gezerseh received her Juris Doctorate from Southwestern Law School.

Emily is a career leadership coach for lawyers, with a background in private legal practice, anti-bias education, and law career advising and professional development. She is credentialed with the ICF—the gold standard in the industry—and is certified as an Energy Leadership Index (ELI) Master Practitioner, offering a one-of-a-kind assessment that quantifies energy level, identifies strengths and growth opportunities, and teaches you how to shift your energy on demand. In addition to energy management, she speaks regularly on the four pillars of sustainable career success: authentic leadership, work-life balance, career fulfillment, and confidence. Her signature offer “The CALL” is a comprehensive coaching program that walks you through all four pillars via (i) the ELI assessment, (ii) 1:1 calls, (iii) a self-study digital course, (iv) twice monthly live workshops, and (v) community app challenges.

Brooke Loesby, Law Life Coach

Brooke’s passion is improving the lives of attorneys and making law firms healthy, positive places to work. Brooke uses the Law Life Coach process to help motivated attorneys build their book, transition to their dream role and pursue alternative legal careers. If you are ready to take control of your career, legacy and purpose, you are in the right place. We are committed to support you as you define success and take steps to attain those goals in your career.

Brooke also specializes in legal recruiting, transition planning, making recommendations regarding hiring and retention, firm culture, benefits, onboarding practices, firm structure, and roles and responsibilities.

Before coaching, Brooke earned her JD from Pepperdine Law School in 2006. She was an Associate at Akin Gump and worked at Quinn Emanuel before transitioning to legal counseling at the Office of Career Services at Loyola Law School. Beyond living her dream life today, Brooke enjoys hiking, vegetarian cooking, paddle boarding, and meditation.

Moderator David Finn, Assistant US Attorney, Southern District of California

David Finn is an Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, where he has worked in the Criminal Division since 2011.  He has completed over 40 federal jury trials and made several Ninth Circuit oral arguments.  He currently serves as the USAO’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator working to reduce violent crime in the district through intervention, prevention, enforcement, and reentry strategies.  David is a past President of the San Diego Chapter of the Federal Bar Association and serves on their Advisory Board.  He is the Vice Chair of the FBA’s National Professional Development Committee.  He is the founding President of the San Diego Federal Bar Foundation, which raises money for charitable causes impacting the federal legal community.  He has been appointed by the District Court to serve on the Southern District of California’s Court History Committee and as a Lawyer Representative for the Southern District of California.  David volunteers as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Juvenile Dependency Court and regularly serves as a Judge Pro Tem in San Diego Superior Court, Small Claims Division.  He is a board member for Wesley House, which provides support services and affordable housing to college students in need.  David is an Adjunct Professor at Thomas Jefferson School of Law, where he teaches Criminal Law and Legal Writing II.

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Better Presentations: How to Stop ‘Rough-Drafting’ and Learn to Speak with Precision

Why is it that so many lawyer presentations suffer from “hanging fragmentitis”? Here’s how to stop yourself from constantly editing, restarting and revising out loud.

When we speak, why do we so often fail to finish our sentences? Linguists must know the answer to this question, but I am at a loss. All I’m sure of is this: Lawyers find it difficult — often impossible — to finish sentences. They have some kind of built-in resistance to committing to a period. Commas, ellipses and random question marks — yes. Periods — no.

Here’s what I mean. A lawyer stands up to make a presentation to colleagues, an opening statement or a motion to a judge. She states her topic or theme, often (but far from always) in a single sentence. And then, she’s off to “The Land of the Never-Ending Sentence.” There isn’t a period to be heard for minutes on end:

“Mrs. X has been afraid for her life since the night her husband stabbed her with a kitchen knife.” (This is the complete sentence.) “Mr. X had threatened her on numerous occasions, and the police had been … uh … called to their residence more than once and in 2009 alone officers were called by … uh … by either a neighbor or the caretaker of the condos or even by Mr. X himself … uh … on one occasion, and so she has been scared and worried, especially for the … um … effect of the potential violence on her two young daughters, who she sent away to live with her … um … sister.”

And so on and on … and on.

Eventually, the story emerges from the thicket of verbal litter. Participles dangle, prepositional phrases attach themselves, as if by their own accord, to the beginnings of ideas or the end of a long-winded thought, serving only as a bridge to the next part of an excruciating, endless sentence.

Tangled in the verbal weed patch, like chattering language cicadas, is the cognitive wheel-spinning of habitual rephrasing:

“… who she sent away to live with her sister … who … uh … who she sent to a suburb of Boston … who she sent early … um … last year to live in a safer place … a less … a much less violent situation with her sister, because she was now … uh … even worried about a different type of … uh … abuse, verbal, physical … her older daughter reported … “

Grab Hold of Those Dangling Thoughts

We would never leave a  written sentence unfinished. Why don’t we speak with the same care? Instead, we seem to be constantly editing, hitting the delete button, starting over, revising, and rough-drafting out loud. There is a fix for “hanging fragmentitis.” When you hear yourself starting sentences over, help yourself bring that sentence to an end by doing three things.

3 Tips on How to Make a Good Presentation

1. resist tacking “and” onto the ends of your thoughts during presentations..

Do this with all your intellectual muscle. Speak in phrases, working your way through sentences with precision. This keeps your brain in sync with your mouth. We often listen to lawyers who speak so fast that they cannot monitor their speech in real-time. Their brain is way out ahead of their lips. As my Uncle Bobby Wayne of Alabama once observed of a talking head on TV, “I see he’s mashing his lips together, but I can’t make out a word he’s sayin’ — and I’m sure he don’t know, either.” “And” used to string meandering sentences together litters your speech with meaningless noise.

2. End sentences with downward inflection, walking down the musical steps of each sentence.

End sentences decisively , so listeners hear that the end is approaching. They need those inflective, musical cues to help organize your thoughts in their heads. If you are asking a rhetorical question, end with the upward inflection of curiosity. Walk your voice  up  the musical steps.

3. Pause briefly when your sentence ends.

You should hear silence. The silence that follows the downward inflection of an audible period gives listeners a moment to process what you have said. Silence gives you a moment to formulate the first word of the next sentence. Don’t worry that the pause will be too long — 99.9% of the time, these pauses are less than a second and still sufficient to let listeners know the sentence is over. Resist the urge to rush into the next sentence.

When making legal presentations, speak in deliberate phrases. That keeps your sentences on track and prevents you from excessive starts and stops. Trust that you can speak about your topic with articulate intelligence. You needn’t second-guess yourself and force listeners to endure your public editing. Sentence fragments wouldn’t do on paper. Don’t sprinkle them throughout your spoken presentations.

Don’t be a litterbug. Period.

Illustration ©iStockPhoto.com.

For more than 30 years, Marsha Hunter was the CEO and a founder of Johnson and Hunter, Inc., with legal clients in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. Her clients were top ten and top twenty law firms, legal departments at the world’s largest corporations, the United States Department of Justice, and organizations and bar associations from Belfast to Tasmania. Marsha is co-author of “ The Articulate Advocate ” and “ The Articulate Attorney ,” her specialty is human factors — the science of human performance in high-stakes environments. Born in Montana and raised in the American West, she lives in New Mexico.

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How lawyers with high-profile clients approach jury selection

NPR's Scott Detrow speaks with attorney Camille Vasquez about how defense attorneys approach jury selection when they have a high-profile client.

(SOUNDBITE OF MONTAGE)

UNIDENTIFIED JURY FOREPERSON #1: We, the jury, find the defendant, Orenthal James Simpson, not guilty of...

UNIDENTIFIED JURY FOREPERSON #2: We, the jury, in the above entitled matter as to count one, find the defendant guilty.

UNIDENTIFIED JURY FOREPERSON #3: As to the charge of first-degree murder, we, the jury, find the defendant not guilty.

SCOTT DETROW, HOST:

Those are the verdicts from the O.J. Simpson, Derek Chauvin and Casey Anthony murder trials. All three cases, in different ways, captivated the country. Millions of people watched the trials unfold, and millions tuned in as a jury of the defendant's peers decided their fate. Tomorrow marks the beginning of another case that is sure to grab the nation's attention because the defendant is one of the most famous people in the world, former President Donald Trump. Trump is charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying records related to checks used to pay adult film star Stormy Daniels. But before we can hear opening arguments, lawyers for both sides get to select the jury.

ADAM SHLAHET: You're trying to get rid of the jurors who will ruin your case and will not be receptive to your arguments.

DETROW: That's jury expert Adam Shlahet. He's a professor at Fordham Law School. On Monday, hundreds of New Yorkers will file into a Manhattan courtroom. They'll fill out a questionnaire that asks typical questions like, what do you do for a living? What's your educational background? And they'll answer more case-specific questions like, have you volunteered for the Trump campaign? Have you attended a Trump rally? Or have you attended an anti-Trump rally or ever volunteered for an anti-Trump group? But some questions are off the table.

SHLAHET: The judge has not allowed those explicit questions about people's political views, but he also acknowledges that one's political views can be pretty easily gleaned from whether you listen to this radio station or that radio station, watch MSNBC or Fox News.

DETROW: Each side does get 10 peremptory challenges that could strike potential jurors from the list. And the judge can also strike any juror he feels wouldn't be a good fit. But one thing that may surprise you about the process...

SHLAHET: As long as you can be fair and you can assure the court that you can be fair, liking or not liking Donald Trump does not disqualify you from being on this jury.

DETROW: And that's unusual. In a typical case, if a potential juror voices a negative opinion about the defendant, they'd be dismissed.

SHLAHET: But in this case - because everybody knows the defendant, and everybody has an opinion about the defendant, and everyone's heard the defendant speak - that in and of itself is not a disqualification because then you'd be left with nobody.

DETROW: And that's maybe the biggest challenge facing Trump's legal team.

SHLAHET: I think there's a real and legitimate fear that someone will say, I can be totally fair; I have no strong feelings about Donald Trump. You're really looking for the people who may be lying and undercover trying to convict your client.

DETROW: Attorney Camille Vasquez has been in a somewhat similar position. In 2022, she represented actor Johnny Depp in a defamation case he brought against his ex-wife, Amber Heard. It does need to be said that Johnny Depp's case and Donald Trump's cases are very, very different. One of the many key distinctions is that Trump's is a criminal trial and Depp's was a civil trial. These are both cases centering around extremely famous men. There's a lot of media attention in both of them. And amid all of that, you have to select an impartial jury. So I started by asking Vasquez how she and her team approached jury selection for the Depp case, given that situation.

CAMILLE VASQUEZ: We went about it by first and foremost hiring a jury consultant, and I think that was instrumental in helping us narrow the perfect juror that we were looking for and the ones that we really didn't want on our jury, and helping us identify some of the characteristics that each of those potential jurors would exhibit.

DETROW: Can you just tell us a little more about what a juror consultant does? Is this coming up with a hypothetical ideal juror or is this somebody who's with you looking at the jury pool and trying to get a sense of what these jurors are like as they come through?

VASQUEZ: They can do both jobs. In our case, she was not only present while we were selecting the jury, but she also did a lot of research and strategized with us about the type of jurors that we were looking for, the ones that we were not looking for.

DETROW: Can you tell us just a general sense of the types that you were looking for in your particular case?

VASQUEZ: The analogy I like to use is like the perfect dinner guests. So you're going to have different people. You're going to have someone that's going to be the leader, and you're going to have people that are followers. And you need to have the right balance of that. So the leaders that we were looking for were going to be open-minded. They weren't going to know much about the story between our client and Miss Heard. They obviously would have known who Johnny Depp was, but we weren't necessarily looking for big fans of Johnny Depp.

DETROW: That is a lot of different characteristics that you're looking for.

VASQUEZ: It is.

DETROW: So then you get to the selection process. You have this big room full of potential jurors. Everyone fills out a questionnaire. They're brought before the judge and lawyers to answer questions about that questionnaire. How do you get all of those characteristics from the information you have in front of you?

VASQUEZ: So we've pre-identified certain people in the pool. But you're right. It's a big room of over 100 people. And it is completely luck of the draw. So the first 16 get filled into the jury box. And then the process starts where you have questions. And then it's my job as the lawyer for Mr. Depp to be able to establish a rapport with the individual potential jurors, and it's really the first impression that they're going to get of you, of your client and the case.

So it's about establishing rapport and getting them to open up because it's an uncomfortable process where you have everyone looking at you, and you have people taking notes. You want them to talk about things that will show you - do they know a lot about the case? Do they really want to be on this jury? Are they trying to hide that? Or do they want nothing to do with this, and they're just desperately trying to get out of jury duty? Those are all the things that we try to identify by building a rapport.

DETROW: I'm trying to understand because I think, you know, bias going into the case, preformed opinions going into the case is going to be pretty central to a Donald Trump jury. I think it's fair to say.

VASQUEZ: Absolutely.

DETROW: What were the kind of questions that you asked, and what were the kind of things you were looking for to get a sense in your case, of - is this a juror who knows a lot about Johnny Depp; is this a juror who knows a lot about the backstory here?

VASQUEZ: Open-ended questions - it was getting them to talk because we knew if they spoke and they gave us details that really only diehard fans would know, or people that really had studied the case, then we would have an indication as to whether or not this person was somebody that was following closely or not.

DETROW: If you were working on the Trump defense team, how much would you focus on politics versus other broader factors?

VASQUEZ: I probably would focus on politics. I wouldn't say it's the only thing I would focus on, but I think because of who he is, the former president, the Republican nominee, it's an important factor that you have to know. And you are in a liberal state in New York. So obviously, you're going to assume that a lot of the political leanings of the potential jurors are going to be more liberal. I think you have to understand, though, whether or not their political leanings are going to affect their ability to listen to evidence in an impartial way and really be open-minded.

DETROW: How often are you and other lawyers trying to get a sense of how a trial is playing with a jury as it goes on? What are you looking for day to day in the trial in terms of - is this working; are we making our case; are we struggling?

VASQUEZ: I mean, it's an everyday, every moment process. As trial lawyers, even if it's not me, myself, that's looking at the jury, we always have somebody that's looking at the jury trying to see what's affecting them and in what manner it's affecting them. It's crucially important to try to understand. And there was a moment during my cross-examination of Miss Heard where I had two jurors actually physically turn away from her and just lean their bodies towards me. And I thought to myself, I had them in that moment. And as a trial lawyer during cross-examination, you want that. You want the jury paying attention to your questions because you are telling the story through your questions during cross-examination. You don't want them paying attention to the witness and, you know, hanging off every word.

DETROW: We talked before about politics being, you know, a high-profile factor here. What else would you want to know about the jury for a case like this Trump case that is going forward? And what else would you have the biggest questions about as the case progressed?

VASQUEZ: I think one of the biggest questions I would have besides politics is how much they know about the other Trump trials, whether it's civil or criminal, because I do think that will actually be an even bigger problem for the Trump defense team to contend with. And the reason I say that is because the more litigation that a claimant or a plaintiff or defendant is involved in, there's just a stigma that attaches. And so if the potential juror has been really closely following every single legal case, I do think that could be problematic potentially for the defense.

DETROW: Do you think this is an easy case or a hard case for a jury? - because on one hand, it's extramarital affairs and payoffs, seems relatively straightforward to grasp. On the other hand, it's campaign finance and business filings, which is pretty complicated.

VASQUEZ: It is complicated. I don't think it's an easy case for a jury to deal with. It's just not going to be. The implications of their decision are huge, and they know that. So it's not an easy case. But I hope that they find a jury for both sides - right? - that is impartial and will listen to admissible evidence in an open-minded way so that they can come to the right decision because that's what the justice system is all about, is arriving at the right decision without influences that really have no place in a court of law.

DETROW: That's attorney Camille Vasquez, a partner at Brown Rudnick law firm and the lawyer for Johnny Depp in that defamation case against Amber Heard. Thank you so much.

VASQUEZ: Thank you.

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The Public Defenseless: A Podcast by Hunter Parnell

Hunter Parnell ’26 always knew he wanted a career that involved working in the legal system. Growing up, he witnessed firsthand how the criminal justice system treated people as cases to be dealt with quickly instead of as human beings with unique needs. His passion and interest in our justice system was furthered as Parnell earned his degree in legal studies at the United States Air Force Academy.  

“I researched every state’s public defense system and wrote a 550-page book,” Parnell shared.  

While the book didn’t get published, the project allowed Parnell to engage with several individuals doing public defense work. This research and writing process demonstrated to him even more fully that reforming public defense work is an instrumental part of addressing so many problems in the legal system. With that inspiration at the helm, the Public Defenseless podcast was born. 

“I want to educate regular people on the legal system,” Parnell shares of the podcast’s goal. “They know something is wrong [with the legal system], but they don’t know exactly what and why. I also want it [the podcast] to be a place where criminal defense practitioners, researchers, academics, and people working on criminal legal policy can learn from the success and failures of people around the country.” 

Featuring guests from across the U.S., the podcast provides listeners with the knowledge and resources they need to help shape the future of Public Defense reform.  

“The legal system is broken from the moment people get arrested to the very end, and at the core of this is a failure to get people the right to counsel and the right to a jury trial. All of that is a much bigger picture, and the people who can elucidate that picture are public defenders, people who work on policy, and people who every single day see the way that all the laws we talk about in isolation work in practice.”  

In summary, “Public Defenseless” aims to give people a more systemic view of the criminal legal system, while also highlighting the difference between the theory of law versus how the law plays out in practice.  

Since the release of the first episode in December 2021, the podcast has amassed roughly 2,500 subscribers and nearly 9,000 monthly downloads. With over 230 episodes, it is currently ranked 26th on the GoodPods Top Law podcasts, and has been a top 100 Government Podcast on Apple Podcast in 10 different countries.   “Public Defenseless” is also regularly featured by the National Association of Public Defense and in weekly news roundups by the American Bar Association’s Public Defense section.   

One of the most popular episodes features two attorneys from the defense team of Nikolas Cruz (2018 Stoneman Douglas High School shooting) --Casey Secor and Kate O’Shea of Suzerain Capital Defense. Throughout the course of the two-hour episode, the guests explain the ways in which Cruz was repeatedly failed by numerous social, educational, and health care systems from birth until the day he committed the shooting. 

“That case is powerful because Cruz committed a horrific crime, but they were able to convince three out of twelve jurors that he should get life over death,” Parnell said. “When you only read about these cases you don't get the full picture of what those jurors heard, and speaking with those two was a really powerful reminder of what we aren’t necessarily taught in law school about how the death penalty works.” 

Speaking of law school, Parnell explained how working on the podcast has influenced the way he approaches his legal education. 

“Speaking with people from these jurisdictions across the country has informed the way I approach law school, rather than the reverse,” Parnell explained. “I have had a lot of law professors on [the podcast], and we talk about what legal academia can do to better prepare students for how things [in the legal system] actually work.” 

Parnell’s work on the podcast has affirmed his desire to become a Public Defender once he graduates.  

“I will do representation as long as I can,” Parnell shared. “I can also envision myself at some point doing policy work.” 

The Colorado Law community looks forward to the way Parnell’s podcast will continue to serve as a resource for the legal— and public defense—community. Listen to “Public Defenseless” wherever you get your podcasts, and follow the show on Twitter and Instagram. 

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Alumnus and Former West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Shares Career Lessons with Cumberland School of Law Class of 2024

• Commit yourself to collaborate with others to create something truly special—something you couldn’t achieve alone;
• Play your part in preserving and protecting the principles of our great country—a privilege we, as Americans, are so blessed to possess; and,
• Never doubt the skills and abilities you possess to succeed in any endeavor you set your mind to.

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Adams Defends His Pick for Top Lawyer Despite City Council Opposition

Mayor Eric Adams praised Randy Mastro’s “impressive” career as he moves to hire him as New York City’s top lawyer. A majority of the Council is believed to oppose his nomination.

By Emma G. Fitzsimmons and Jeffery C. Mays

Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday said he intended to press forward with his expected nomination of Randy Mastro as New York City’s top lawyer despite mounting opposition from the City Council.

Mr. Adams and his top aides defended Mr. Mastro, a former aide to Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani who is known for his aggressive tactics representing numerous high-profile interests, arguing that he had been called the “conscience” of the Giuliani administration.

The mayor said it was unfair to attack Mr. Mastro for his clients, which include the former New Jersey governor, Chris Christie, in the investigation of George Washington Bridge lane closings ; the State of New Jersey in an ongoing lawsuit against the federal government over congestion pricing; and the energy company Chevron over pollution in the Ecuadorean rain forest .

The expected nomination of Mr. Mastro as New York’s corporation counsel — the lawyer who represents the city, its agencies and the mayor in civil litigation — comes at a time when the mayor and his top aides are facing a tangle of investigations and lawsuits ahead of his re-election campaign next year.

But Mr. Mastro, a former federal prosecutor, must be confirmed by a majority of the 51-member City Council. And earlier in the day, the Council’s Black, Latino and Asian Caucus, which has 34 members, released a statement noting its opposition to his appointment.

“We deserve better than someone who has fought for the interests of top-earners, abusive corporations, and vindictive politicians,” the group said in the statement, adding that the caucus was “firm in its opposition” and urging the Adams administration to reconsider.

In recent days, Adrienne Adams, the City Council speaker, spoke with the mayor and told him that Mr. Mastro does not have enough votes to be confirmed. She asked the mayor to work with the Council to find someone who has more support, according to a person who was familiar with the matter and who was granted anonymity to discuss a sensitive personnel matter.

Mr. Mastro’s nomination seems headed for a contentious showdown at the City Council, just months after the Council fought the mayor in January over two criminal justice bills . The Council prevailed, overriding the mayor’s veto of the bills — the first override of a Democratic mayor since 1991.

Left-leaning Council members have publicly criticized Mr. Mastro and his ties to Mr. Giuliani after The New York Times reported last week that Mr. Adams was moving to hire Mr. Mastro . But more moderate members have also privately shared their concerns with one another.

Mr. Mastro has met with City Hall officials about the corporation counsel job and notified his law firm, King & Spalding, about his likely departure for the position, according to two people who were familiar with the matter.

Mr. Adams credited Mr. Mastro with “a pretty impressive list of things that he has done,” a sentiment shared by other city officials, including Lisa Zornberg, the mayor’s chief counsel.

Ms. Zornberg compared Mr. Mastro to John Adams, the founding father who defended British officers accused of murder after the Boston Massacre, and said that Mr. Mastro had fought for “racial justice issues,” noting his representation of demonstrators who participated in Black Lives Matter protests in June 2020 outside the White House.

If the City Council kills Mr. Mastro’s nomination, it could be a major political loss mirroring Gov. Kathy Hochul’s humiliating defeat last year over her nomination of Hector D. LaSalle to lead the state’s highest court.

The opposition to Mr. Mastro’s appointment rose immediately. As the Council speaker’s office began to reach out to gauge how some members felt about the potential appointment, several contacted Ms. Adams or her aides to voice their opposition.

A majority of the Council’s Black, Latino and Asian Caucus supported releasing the statement opposing Mr. Mastro.

“Given his professional track record representing dubious clients, which has included bringing numerous lawsuits against the City of New York, Mastro is unfit to serve as the city’s chief lawyer,” their statement said.

Sandy Nurse, a councilwoman from Brooklyn who is one of the leaders of the Council’s Progressive Caucus, said she was concerned about Mr. Mastro’s role in Ecuador’s class-action suit against Chevron.

Mr. Mastro lacks “ethical standards and good judgment” about right and wrong, Ms. Nurse said.

The city’s left-leaning public advocate, Jumaane Williams, praised the current corporation counsel, Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix, for representing the city’s vast interests, and questioned if Mr. Mastro would do the same.

“She rightly viewed herself as New York City’s attorney,” Mr. Williams said. “Randy Mastro will most certainly be the mayor’s attorney. ”

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, one of the mayor’s top aides, expressed confidence in a recent television interview that the Council would confirm Mr. Mastro, and cited his accomplishments, including his leadership of the watchdog group Citizens Union.

Ms. Lewis-Martin also called Ms. Adams, the Council speaker, “a really wise woman.”

“I believe that once she reads his résumé, and once she meets him, she will be as impressed with him as the mayor and our team members are,” she said.

Emma G. Fitzsimmons is the City Hall Bureau Chief for The Times, covering Mayor Eric Adams and his administration. More about Emma G. Fitzsimmons

Jeffery C. Mays is a Times reporter covering politics with a focus on New York City Hall. More about Jeffery C. Mays

Explore Our Coverage of the Adams Administration

Walking Back Budget Cuts: Mayor Eric Adams released a revised $111.6 billion budget, which included $2.3 billion that would restore  some funding for schools and cultural institutions.

Defending Randy Mastro: Adams said he intended to press forward  with his expected nomination of Mastro  as New York City’s top lawyer despite mounting opposition from the City Council.

Police Oversight Board: Arva Rice,   the interim chairwoman of an independent police oversight panel, who had fiercely criticized the Police Department , will step down at the request of Mayor Eric Adams, according to three people familiar with the matter.

Catch-Basin Trucks: A report by the New York City comptroller’s office found “big gaps” in how the administration of Adams handles emergency preparations , including infrastructure challenges from extreme weather.

A Second Harassment Lawsuit: One of Mayor Eric Adams’s closest confidants was sued for the second time in a month  over accusations that he harassed and retaliated against a New York Police Department sergeant he oversaw.

Contacting the Mayor’s Office: Adams is now requiring any elected official, including members of Congress , to submit a lengthy online request to speak to an administration official.

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Fact Sheet on FTC’s Proposed Final Noncompete Rule

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The following outline provides a high-level overview of the FTC’s proposed final rule :

• Specifically, the final rule provides that it is an unfair method of competition—and therefore a violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act—for employers to enter into noncompetes with workers after the effective date.
• Fewer than 1% of workers are estimated to be senior executives under the final rule.
• Specifically, the final rule defines the term “senior executive” to refer to workers earning more than $151,164 annually who are in a “policy-making position.”
• Reduced health care costs: $74-$194 billion in reduced spending on physician services over the next decade.
• New business formation: 2.7% increase in the rate of new firm formation, resulting in over 8,500 additional new businesses created each year.
• This reflects an estimated increase of about 3,000 to 5,000 new patents in the first year noncompetes are banned, rising to about 30,000-53,000 in the tenth year.
• This represents an estimated increase of 11-19% annually over a ten-year period.
• The average worker’s earnings will rise an estimated extra $524 per year. 

The Federal Trade Commission develops policy initiatives on issues that affect competition, consumers, and the U.S. economy. The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Follow the  FTC on social media , read  consumer alerts  and the  business blog , and  sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts .

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Upcoming! NYPL’s Free 2024 Job Fair and Expo

Join us on Friday, May 17, at the  Stephen A. Schwarzman Building for The New York Public Library’s annual Job Fair and Expo for Adults, focusing on career transitions. Doors open at 10 AM and close at 4 PM, and registration is required. 

Connect with recruiters and HR managers to find open positions, network with companies and organizations, and get valuable job training information. More than 60 employers and community-based workforce development organizations have confirmed.  Register for free today!

Who Should Attend?

• Adults over the age of 18 looking to explore different job paths.
• Recent college graduates looking to kickstart their careers.
• Adults over the age of 55 seeking new challenges or career changes.
• Migrants eager to integrate and succeed in the local job market.
• Individuals who have been previously incarcerated and are looking for a fresh start in the workforce.

Venue Guide: Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

• Bartos Forum: Expo space with over 40 employers and 20 community organizations from diverse industries seeking new talent.
• Celeste Auditorium: Space for workshops and keynote presentations starting at 10:30 AM. (Find the full schedule below)
• Salomon Room: All-day training and support resources for career development.
• Trustees Room:  All-day complimentary professional headshots and resume printing services.

Workshop & Keynote Presentations: Celeste Auditorium

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Join keynote speaker Neisha Springer as she explores adapting and thriving through challenges, bouncing back from setbacks, and navigating career growth in uncertain times. This presentation will delve into self-discovery, developing strategies for success, expanding your worldview, and building support networks. Participants will gain essential tools to increase adaptability, embrace their unique journeys with gratitude, and flourish in times of change or adversity.

About Neisha Springer: Neisha is a seasoned Business and Talent Strategist with over a decade of experience in HR, Learning, Operations, Transformation, and Talent Management. She has worked in both corporate and non-profit settings across North America and global markets, infusing her work with a clever, fun personality and a creative spirit. Neisha is passionate about helping individuals reach their full potential and aims to make a lasting impact on how companies attract, develop, engage, and retain top talent worldwide.

11:50 AM–12:20 PM | City Employment Information Session: NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection

The New York City Civil Service Exams create eligibility lists for positions across city agencies, facilitating career transitions through transferable skills. The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection will present details on the civil service exam process, job applications, and navigating the NYC Jobs site, promoting career advancement through civil service titles.

Speaker to Be Announced

12:40–1:10 PM | Mastering Career Navigation Strategies

Join Kabreel McEachin for strategies on mastering career navigation! Learn to leverage your strengths, overcome obstacles, and pursue continuous education for sustained self-actualization. Whether you're a recent college graduate starting in your professional life or aiming to advance in your established career, this session will equip you with the clarity and determination that you need to identify meaningful next steps.

About Kabreel McEachin: Originally from Laurinburg, NC and raised in Atlanta, Kabreel is a dedicated professional in higher education and workforce development, specializing in supporting career changers and adult learners, especially from underrepresented backgrounds. With an MBA in Project Management and a BA in Mass Communications and Business Management (and currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education), Kabreel has collaborated with organizations like Goodwill Industries, Generation USA, and Atlanta Technical College, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workforce.

1:30–2:00 PM | Lanzando su carrera profesional post-migración (Launching your career post-migration)

Este taller está diseñado específicamente para personas recién llegadas. Ofrece conocimientos esenciales para ayudarles a comenzar su trayectoria profesional en los Estados Unidos de manera efectiva. Los participantes recibirán información vital y consejos prácticos sobre cómo navegar el mercado laboral, entender las sutilezas culturales y aprovechar los recursos disponibles para iniciar y avanzar en sus carreras. Esta sesión es un peldaño esencial para aquellos que buscan una transición facíl en el panorama profesional de Estados Unidos.

Acerca de Laura Petit: Nacida y criada en Maracaibo, Venezuela, es comunicadora, educadora y artista escénica. Emigró de Venezuela a Nueva York hace 9 años, donde trabaja como Gerente de Comunicación y Marketing, aprovechando el poder de la narrativa para conectar con audiencias en los campos de la educación y el sector sin fines de lucro.

This workshop, conducted in Spanish, is designed specifically for newcomers. It offers essential insights to help you begin your professional journey in the US effectively. Participants will receive vital information and practical tips on navigating the job market, understanding cultural nuances, and leveraging available resources to kickstart and advance their careers. This session is an essential stepping stone for those looking to transition smoothly into the U.S. professional landscape.

About Laura Petit: Born and raised in Maracaibo, Venezuela, she is a communicator, educator, and performing artist. She emigrated from Venezuela to New York nine years ago, where she works as a Communication and Marketing Manager, leveraging the power of storytelling to connect with audiences within the non-profit and education fields.

3:10–3:40 PM | Human Rights Law: Protecting Workers Re-entering the Workforce

This workshop emphasizes the rights and obligations under the law in employment, housing, public accommodations (including protections for community members who have been previously incarcerated ), and prohibitions against discriminatory harassment and bias-based profiling by law enforcement.

About Ryan DuBois: Ryan is an Associate Human Rights Specialist and Native American & Indigenous Communities Liaison at the NYC Commission on Human Rights. He has a degree in International Studies with a specialization in Latin America, and has over a decade of domestic and international human rights advocacy experience including combating statelessness, tenant organizing, civil rights education, and Indigenous rights advocacy.

Polish Your Resume: Stand Out at the Job Fair & Expo!

We can print a limited number of resumes free of cost for all Job Fair and Expo attendees. Get your free resume copies at the Library before the event in two easy ways:

Attend Resume Printing Sessions

From Monday, May 6 to Friday, May 10, email your ready-to-print resume to Career Services for free printing! For more details and submission instructions, select a preferred location:

Bronx Library Center

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL)

Request Copies for Pick Up at the Job Fair and Expo on May 17

Please complete  this form , attach your resume when prompted, and submit it. The Career Services team will confirm via your provided email once your copies are printed. Pick up your resumes at the Career Services table at the Job Fair and Expo on Friday, May 17.

Note: Only resumes will be printed for pick up. Cover letters and other documents are not included. For assistance with printing additional documents, please contact Career Services at  [email protected] .  

Don’t Miss Out: Enjoy Giveaways & Win Prizes!

Join us for an exciting day of opportunities and surprises! Every attendee will receive a raffle ticket at check-in. Earn more tickets by participating in workshops, completing surveys, and visiting select tables. Raffle prizes will be announced soon. Plus, all participants will receive a complimentary tote bag with branded stationary! 

Please contact Career Services at  [email protected] with any questions. 

Please submit press inquiries at least 48 hours before the event to  [email protected] . 

Help protect our tax system while putting your investigative skills to use.

The American system of taxation is based on the premise that all income is taxable (which includes illegally earned income). In many instances, proving that a taxpayer willfully attempted to hide income from the Federal Government is an integral part of proving other criminal activity including fraud, money laundering or Bank Secrecy Act violations. Criminal Investigation continues to fulfill the important role of helping to ensure the integrity and fairness of our nations' tax system.

How do they do it?

The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division conducts criminal investigations regarding alleged violations of the Internal Revenue Code, the Bank Secrecy Act and various money laundering statutes. The findings of these investigations are referred to the Department of Justice for recommended prosecution.

Learn more!

To learn more about careers in Law Enforcement, please visit the  Criminal Investigation Special Agent  page.

In addition to the Special Agent, Criminal Investigation careers also include Administrative, Investigatory, Information Technology (IT), and Forensic positions. To learn more about these careers, click here .

For social media updates, follow us on our IRS Twitter  and LinkedIn pages.

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What the New Overtime Rule Means for Workers

One of the basic principles of the American workplace is that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. Simply put, every worker’s time has value. A cornerstone of that promise is the  Fair Labor Standards Act ’s (FLSA) requirement that when most workers work more than 40 hours in a week, they get paid more. The  Department of Labor ’s new overtime regulation is restoring and extending this promise for millions more lower-paid salaried workers in the U.S.

Overtime protections have been a critical part of the FLSA since 1938 and were established to protect workers from exploitation and to benefit workers, their families and our communities. Strong overtime protections help build America’s middle class and ensure that workers are not overworked and underpaid.

Some workers are specifically exempt from the FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime protections, including bona fide executive, administrative or professional employees. This exemption, typically referred to as the “EAP” exemption, applies when: 

1. An employee is paid a salary,  

2. The salary is not less than a minimum salary threshold amount, and 

3. The employee primarily performs executive, administrative or professional duties.

While the department increased the minimum salary required for the EAP exemption from overtime pay every 5 to 9 years between 1938 and 1975, long periods between increases to the salary requirement after 1975 have caused an erosion of the real value of the salary threshold, lessening its effectiveness in helping to identify exempt EAP employees.

The department’s new overtime rule was developed based on almost 30 listening sessions across the country and the final rule was issued after reviewing over 33,000 written comments. We heard from a wide variety of members of the public who shared valuable insights to help us develop this Administration’s overtime rule, including from workers who told us: “I would love the opportunity to...be compensated for time worked beyond 40 hours, or alternately be given a raise,” and “I make around $40,000 a year and most week[s] work well over 40 hours (likely in the 45-50 range). This rule change would benefit me greatly and ensure that my time is paid for!” and “Please, I would love to be paid for the extra hours I work!”

The department’s final rule, which will go into effect on July 1, 2024, will increase the standard salary level that helps define and delimit which salaried workers are entitled to overtime pay protections under the FLSA. 

Starting July 1, most salaried workers who earn less than $844 per week will become eligible for overtime pay under the final rule. And on Jan. 1, 2025, most salaried workers who make less than $1,128 per week will become eligible for overtime pay. As these changes occur, job duties will continue to determine overtime exemption status for most salaried employees.

The rule will also increase the total annual compensation requirement for highly compensated employees (who are not entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA if certain requirements are met) from $107,432 per year to $132,964 per year on July 1, 2024, and then set it equal to $151,164 per year on Jan. 1, 2025.

Starting July 1, 2027, these earnings thresholds will be updated every three years so they keep pace with changes in worker salaries, ensuring that employers can adapt more easily because they’ll know when salary updates will happen and how they’ll be calculated.

The final rule will restore and extend the right to overtime pay to many salaried workers, including workers who historically were entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA because of their lower pay or the type of work they performed. 

We urge workers and employers to visit  our website to learn more about the final rule.

Jessica Looman is the administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Follow the Wage and Hour Division on Twitter at  @WHD_DOL  and  LinkedIn .  Editor's note: This blog was edited to correct a typo (changing "administrator" to "administrative.")

• Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
• Fair Labor Standards Act
• overtime rule

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