If you’re considering a career in law, it’s important to understand the different types of lawyers and what they do. Each type of lawyer has its own set of skills and requirements that need to be fulfilled in order to become one. This article will discuss four common types of lawyers and how you can become one.
Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injury lawyers specialize in cases involving physical or psychological injuries that have occurred due to the negligence or careless behavior of another person or entity. These attorneys help victims receive compensation for their injuries including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and other damages. To become a personal injury lawyer, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before attending law school. After completing your formal education, you must pass the bar exam in the state you plan to practice in as well as any other professional exams required by your state.
Tax Attorney
Tax attorneys specialize in tax laws related to individual taxes, business taxes, trusts, estates, corporate tax issues, foreign investments and more. They assist clients with filing taxes correctly as well as defending them during audits or disputes with the IRS or other government agencies. To become a tax attorney requires completing a bachelor’s degree followed by three years of law school and passing the bar exam in the state where you intend to practice law. You may also need additional certifications such as becoming an Enrolled Agent if you plan on representing clients before the IRS.
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defense lawyers defend clients who have been charged with criminal offenses such as murder, assault, fraud, or drug possession. A criminal defense attorney is responsible for representing their client during all phases of the legal process including plea negotiations with prosecutors and defending them at trial when necessary. Becoming a criminal defense lawyer requires earning a bachelor’s degree followed by three years of law school and passing the bar exam for your chosen state. You may also need additional certification depending on your specialty area (e.g., DUI/DWI).
Family Lawyer
Family lawyers specialize in divorce proceedings as well as child custody arrangements among other matters related to family law (e.g., adoption). Family lawyers provide advice for their clients about legal matters such as the division of assets during divorce proceedings or child support payments post-divorce. Becoming a family lawyer requires earning your bachelor’s degree followed by three years at an accredited law school before passing the bar exam for your desired state. It is also important to note that some states require additional certifications if you intend on practicing family law exclusively within that state.
There are many different types of lawyers depending on your area of specialization ranging from personal injury lawyers to criminal defense attorneys and beyond! No matter which type of lawyer interests you most, there is no denying that becoming one requires dedication both inside and outside the courtroom—from completing an undergraduate degree all the way through passing the bar exam. With hard work and determination, however, anyone can fulfill their dream of becoming a lawyer.
Author information: Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.
