Lawyers

Lawyers are one of the most sought careers in India. Many children pursue this career after Class 12. After completing Class 12, they can pursue an integrated 5-year program. There are several universities offering the 5-year LLB degree, and admission to this course is based on the entrance exam conducted by the respective universities. The most important entrance exam is the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), which is accepted for admission into the 14 National Law Universities across India. The CLAT assesses candidates on English, logical reasoning, legal aptitude, elementary Mathematics and general awareness.

After completing graduation, you can also opt for a 3-year LLB degree. You can complete your bachelor’s degree in any stream with at least 50 percent marks. Some universities offering a 3-year course include Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Punjab University, Government Law College (Mumbai), and others.

Finally, to become a lawyer one has to enrol as an advocate in any of the state bar councils regulated by the Advocates Act 1961. After registration, one must clear All India Bar Examination (AIBE). The exam is conducted by Bar Council of India, and once you clear it, you get a certificate of practice.

Role of Lawyers or Attorneys

Lawyers typically do the following:
Advise and represent clients in courts, before government agencies, or in private legal matters
Communicate with their clients and others
Conduct research and analysis of legal problems
Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses
Present facts in writing or verbally to their clients or others and argue on their behalf
Prepare and file legal documents, such as lawsuits, appeals, wills, contracts, and deeds
Lawyers, also called attorneys, act as both advocates and advisors.

Skills of Lawyers or Attorneys

Analytical skills: Lawyers should be able to analyze large amounts of information and help their clients resolve problems or issues.

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 should have good problem-solving skills are important for lawyers to prepare the best defense or recommendation.

Research skills: All lawyers need research skills for preparing legal advice or representation for a client commonly.

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.

Scope of Lawyers in India

After completing LLB, you can either choose to start practising, or can continue with studies. You can opt for an LLM course to get in-depth knowledge in your area of interest. One can opt to become a criminal lawyer, a corporate lawyer or a civil lawyer.