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Lawyer

O*NET-SOC: 23-1011.00

Legal

Represents clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draws up legal documents, or manages and advises clients on legal transactions. Conducts research, interprets laws and regulations, and presents evidence and arguments in court.

About This Role

Lawyers represent clients in legal matters, combining research, writing, negotiation, and advocacy to resolve disputes or structure agreements. A typical day may start with reviewing emails and case files, then editing a motion, brief, or contract in a word processor while cross-checking citations and clauses against statutes and case law in databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis. They interpret legal rules, decide which arguments and precedents best support their client’s position, and anticipate how a judge or regulator might respond.

Many lawyers spend part of the day meeting clients to gather facts, explain options, and manage expectations about possible outcomes and timelines.

A Day in the Life

8:30 AM — Review calendar and case updates

- Open the docket, check deadlines, hearings, and client meetings, and scan emails for urgent developments or court notices.

9:00 AM — Draft or revise legal documents

- Work on a motion, brief, or contract, refine arguments or clauses, and verify citations and definitions against current law.

11:00 AM — Meet or call clients

- Hold conversations to gather facts, explain options and risks, and align on strategy for settlement, litigation, or transactions.

12:30 PM — Lunch and quick research

- Grab a meal while skimming recent cases or regulatory updates related to active matters, then note anything that may affect strategy.

1:30 PM — Conduct legal research

- Search case law and statutes in legal databases, read opinions, and update a research memo or outline for an upcoming filing or hearing.

3:30 PM — Court appearance or negotiations

- Attend a hearing, deposition, or settlement conference, present arguments or questions, and negotiate terms with opposing counsel.

6:00 PM — Finalize work and plan next steps

- Incorporate outcomes from the day into documents, send summaries to clients, and map out tasks that must be completed before upcoming deadlines.

Tools & Technologies

Office Suites

Microsoft Office

Corel WordPerfect Office Suite

Databases & Data Tools

Microsoft Access

Abacus Data Systems AbacusLaw

ADC Legal Systems Perfect Practice





ADERANT Expert Matter Center

Advanced Technologies Class Act

Document Management

Adobe Acrobat

AbacusNext HotDocs

Anacomp CaseLogistix

Best Case Solutions Best Case Bankruptcy

Captaris Alchemy

Project Management

Microsoft Project

Canyon Solutions Jcats

Constellation Justice Systems CourtView

Customer Expressions i-Sight

Legal Files software

Presentations

Microsoft PowerPoint

IDEA TrialPro inData TrialDirector

Verdict Systems Sanction

Visionary Legal Technologies Visionary Professional

Email

Microsoft Outlook

Catalyst Repository Systems CatalystDR

Catalyst Repository Systems CatalystXE

MicroFocus GroupWise

Salary Details

Certifications, Training & Memberships

Essential

Juris Doctor (JD)

Accredited law school

Course A professional law degree covering core subjects such as contracts, torts, civil procedure, criminal law, and constitutional law, typically required to sit for a bar exam.

State Bar Admission and License

State bar or licensing authority

Certification

Requires passing a bar examination and character-and-fitness review, granting legal authority to practice in that jurisdiction.

Multistate Skilled Responsibility Examination (MPRE)

National Conference of Bar Examiners

Certification

Tests knowledge of qualified ethics and conduct rules, and is required for admission in most U.S. jurisdictions.

Professional Memberships

American Bar Association (ABA) membership

American Bar Association

Membership

Provides continuing legal education, practice resources, and networking across practice areas and regions.

Work Environment

Work from home Hybrid (Remote + Office)

Work Setting Traditional office / indoor

Physical Activity Mostly sedentary

Social Interaction Highly collaborative — frequent team interaction

Schedule Extended hours common

Your Skills & Attributes

Skills & Competencies Matches (47)

Active Learning

Good Match

Social Perceptiveness

Good Match

Systems Evaluation

Moderate Match

Management of Personnel Resources

Moderate Match

Equipment Selection

Partial Match





Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lawyer a good career?

Lawyer can be a rewarding career choice. Based on current data, the median salary is $110K and job outlook is growing (8% projected growth). Whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, interests, and values — take our quiz to find out how well you match.

What degree do you need to become a Lawyer?

The typical education requirement for a Lawyer is a Professional Degree. However, requirements can vary by employer and specialization. Some professionals enter the field with alternative credentials or relevant work experience.

How long does it take to become a Lawyer?

Becoming a Lawyer typically requires about 7-8 years of higher education (including a bachelor’s degree and professional school). Additional time may be needed for certifications, internships, or on-the-job training depending on the specific role and employer requirements.

What is the work-life balance like for a Lawyer?

The work-life balance for a Lawyer is demanding, often requiring long hours, irregular schedules, or high-pressure situations. Individual experiences vary based on employer, specialization, seniority level, and geographic location.

What is the job outlook for Lawyer?

The job outlook for Lawyer is growing. Employment is projected to grow by 8% over the coming decade. Labor market conditions can vary by region and specialization.

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